Whether you are a star athlete or simply enjoy regularly participating in physical activities like dancing, soccer, tennis, biking or running; milk’s nine essential nutrients play an important role in fueling any active lifestyle. From bone building to muscle strengthening, the nutrients in milk provide a variety of positive health benefits. For example, carbohydrates in milk help to refuel energy, protein works to repair and build muscle, and fluid and electrolytes replenish what is lost in sweat to rehydrate the body.

Low-fat and fat-free milk – white or chocolate – offer a more nutrient-rich alternative to traditional sports drinks.What’s more, white and chocolate milk taste great, are relatively inexpensive and more likely to be stocked in the fridge, awaiting the tired athlete. Science supports the many health benefits dairy foods provide for the active individual. Research shows milk and chocolate milk to be an effective post-exercise beverage for endurance or resistance activities.  Research also supports the role whey protein – the naturally occurring protein in milk – plays in improving body composition and managing a healthy weight.

To learn more about how milk and chocolate milk contribute to an active lifestyle, take a look at these nutrition materials.