PUBLISHED 08/28/2007
To jump-start recovery, you need to eat after a run. But sometimes postworkout errands or a not-ready-for-food stomach can interfere with the 60-minute refueling window. Several supplement makers claim to have a solution, offering the benefits of a snack--restoring energy, repairing muscles--in a pill or drink form. Bob Seebohar, R.D., a sports dietitian, believes that while food is the best option, these products could be beneficial when a PB&J is out of reach. Several Runner's World staffers added them to their training regimens to find out.
Product: Amino Vital Mix & Shake
What it is: A powdered mix that contains five amino acids (glutamine, arginine, and three branched-chain amino acids)
What it claims: Restores muscle fibers to their optimal state; boosts immunity; increases resistance to injury; improves body's muscle-to-fat ratio.
Used by: Sheila Taormina and Hunter Kemper, 2004 Olympic triathletes
Tester's Take: Our marathoner liked the lemon flavor--not too sweet or too concentrated. At only 75 calories, it was surprisingly satiating, holding her over till mealtime.
Price: 5-pack for $10
Contact: amino-vital.com
Product: Endurox R4
What it is: A powdered mix with a 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein, along with antioxidants, electrolytes, and glutamine
What it claims: Carbs and protein speed the replenishment of glycogen stores and rebuild muscle; glutamine helps repair muscles and enhance immunity.
Used by: Dave Scott, six-time Ironman World champion
Tester's Take: This product disagreed with our marathoner's sensitive stomach. Endurox's pill form might be a better option for those prone to GI issues.
Price: 28 servings for $50
Contact: pacifichealthlabs.com
Product: Nubound
What it is: A pill that contains nucleotides, the building blocks for DNA and RNA, which are used to form new cells throughout the body
What it claims: Makers of the pill claim it accelerates the production of new cells, speeding muscle regeneration and increasing red blood cells.
Used By: Dick Beardsley, two-time winner of Grandma's Marathon
Tester's Take: Our marathoner believed it helped him bounce back from hard workouts, kept his immunity high, and contributed to a personal record.
Price: 120 caps for $30
Contact: nubound.net
Product: Powerbar Recovery Drink
What it is: A powdered mix that contains 20 grams of carbohydrates along with three grams of protein and some sodium
What it claims: Electrolytes and sodium restore key nutrients lost during training or competition. Carbohydrates replenish glycogen stores. Protein rebuilds muscle.
Used by: Dan Browne, 2004 Olympic marathoner and 10,000-meter runner
Tester's Take: "Very tasty--I looked forward to drinking it," said our triathlete tester, who felt it reduced muscle soreness and improved recovery.
Price: 36 servings for $25
Contact: powerbar.com
Product: Gatorade Protein Recovery Shake
What it is: A ready-to-drink shake that contains 45 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of protein, plus sodium
What it claims: Contains a hearty dose of protein to rebuild muscle and repair damage after exercise. Ample carbs replenish muscle glycogen stores.
Used by: Tested by NFL and collegiate football teams
Tester's Take: Chocolate was favored over vanilla and strawberry. Our runner liked that it was light and smooth and didn't feel heavy in his stomach.
Price: Case 24 for $26
Contact: Gatorade.com
Product: Nutri-Build III
What it is: A mix that contains a blend of amino acids--glutamine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine--as well as glucosamine
WHAT IT CLAIMS: Provides amino acids to boost muscle recovery. Glucosamine, an arthritis supplement, has been shown to improve joint health.
Used by: Roger Soler, 1984 5000-meter Olympian
Tester's Take: "I didn't like the taste, but kept using it because I felt more recovered after workouts," said our Ironman, who saw results within five days.
Price: 20 servings for $40
Contact: rebuild2.com
Product: Slim-Fast Optima Shake
What it is: A meal-replacement shake with 24 grams of carbohydrates, 10 grams of protein, plus vitamins, minerals, and sodium
What it claims: Marketed for weight loss, Slim-Fast contains a carbohydrate-protein ratio that can help athletes recover from workouts.
Used by: Greg McMillan, exercise scientist, running coach
Tester's Take: Our marathoner liked the taste, the affordable price, and being able to buy it at a grocery store. "Easy to chug; legs felt fresher on runs."
Price: 6-pack fir $6.70
Contact: slim-fast.com
