MOST of us will reach for a sports drink after exercise, but new research suggests a glass of milk could do the job just as well.
A study of male volunteers found that milk was better at limiting the effects of muscle damage from exercise than either water or sports drinks, most likely due to its levels of protein and carbohydrates.
Dr Judith Bryans, director of The Dairy Council and Registered Nutritionist, said: "This study supports the volume of literature which suggests that milk is a powerful post-exercise recovery aid.
"Previous research has shown milk to be an effective rehydration solution, while this is the first study to suggest that drinking milk following exercise may decrease muscle damage."
But there are plenty of other reasons why a glass of milk is good for you...
Milk and dairy products are rich sources of calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and protein which are all essential for healthy bone growth and development.
The high levels of calcium and phosphorous in milk and dairy products are also good for growing and looking after healthy teeth.
Studies suggest that consuming two portions of dairy each day, along with five portions of fruit and vegetables as part of a low salt diet, can reduce high blood pressure.
