Effect of Milk on Muscle Glycogen Recovery and Exercise Performance: A Systematic Review

Milk is a rich nutrient content beverage that may improve postexercise recovery. We systematically reviewed the evidence regarding the effects of milk consumption on athletes' muscle glycogen recovery and subsequent exercise performance, complementing with a practical recommendation on how athletes can use milk as a recovery aid. A literature search was conducted in databases up to April 2020 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Nine studies were included assessing the effect of milk, chocolate milk, or milk with additional carbohydrate on glycogen resynthesis and exercise performance outcomes. Milk-based beverages provide similar results when compared to carbohydrate replacement drink, and no evidence of superiority was found. Carbohydrate-added milk beverages, especially chocolate milk, are a sports drink option for postexercise muscle glycogen recovery and subsequent exercise performance, when they have an adequate carbohydrate amount. Milk-based beverages may support optimal postexercise short-term recovery.
Source: Strength and Conditioning Journal - Category: Sports Medicine Tags: Review Source Type: research