Natural recovery waters have exploded in popularity in recent years. Last summer represented the biggest year yet for sale of these specialty products. That said, just because they’re trendy, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll live up to the hype.
Now that the weather is heating up again, natural recovery waters are getting a whole new wave of social media attention. Which ones should you be paying attention to this year? Which ones should you be avoiding – or at least treating the same way as a juice or soda? Here’s what a nutritionist will tell you.
Watermelon Natural Recovery Waters
Good news! If you’ve loved watermelon water, then you will be happy to keep drinking it. This natural recovery water is high in potassium, vitamin C, lycopene and is 92 percent water. Eating the fruit is fantastic for you after a workout. That said, drinking its water comes in as a close second. Blend some of the flesh to make your own or buy it in stores (making sure that the only ingredient is watermelon water, of course).
Cactus Natural Recovery Waters
Unfortunately, when it comes to its benefits for rehydration during and after a workout, this one is all hype. This is not actually sourced from an actual cactus plant. Instead, its from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus. Indeed, it’s high in antioxidants, but it doesn’t really offer much more than carbs. Essentially, you’d do just as well drinking flavored water.
Coconut Natural Recovery Waters
There are people who say they love coconut water and there are some who say they can’t stand the taste. No matter what you think of the flavor, it’s a fantastic substitute for a sports drink. It is high in potassium and is certainly one to keep at the top of your natural recovery water list. Coconut water is found in the center of the coconut when it is young and green (unlike the milk, which comes from the flesh).
Aloe Vera Natural Recovery Waters
While aloe vera is fantastic to have on hand in case of mild burns, the water isn’t as good for workout recovery. There is some debate as to whether its water – which often contains the plant gels, will provide other types of benefit. It does, after all, contain vitamins, amino acids, minerals and antioxidants. That said, in terms of electrolytes, potassium and sodium, it’s a weak performer.
Maple Natural Recovery Waters
Maple is a newer addition to the popular natural recovery waters scene. While it is a top option on social media due to the minerals and antioxidants that it contains, it under-performs after a workout. It is a fantastic source of manganese, which is important for bone health, blood sugar control and collagen production. However, if you want to recover from your workout, you’ll need more from your natural recovery waters.
