Best Recovery Drink for Soccer Players
Soccer is one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports in the world. In order for any player, from youth to the professional level, to recover properly after any type of high-intensity exercise, it is crucial to optimize sleep, EMF protection, nutrition, and, the main topic of this post, hydration.
One of the best ways to support muscle recovery and restore muscle function after exercise is by consuming the right recovery drink. Nowadays there is so much information out there through social media about all types of performance-related topics that players might have a false perception of what a real recovery drink is.
A lot of players may think that sports drinks loaded with a few electrolytes and more artificial sweeteners, dyes, and other harmful chemicals, are the best option, because of marketing, but that is not the case. That is why in this blog post I will be going over the best recovery drinks that are actually worth your money as a soccer player and drinks that you should avoid.
The Best Recovery Drink Options for Soccer Players
All of the following recovery drink options can be considered real food, because they contain natural, unprocessed ingredients that provide essential nutrients to get the best recovery. Unlike commercial sports drinks loaded with artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and synthetic additives, these options supply the body with high-quality hydration, electrolytes, and macronutrients needed to repair muscles, replenish energy stores, and support overall recovery.
Spring Water + Raw Honey + Lemon + Electrolytes
- Spring water is by far the cleanest and best type of water you can get because it already has natural electrolytes and it also comes with some structured properties, just like the 4th phase of water.
- Adding electrolytes such as sodium chloride, magnesium, and potassium helps restore electrolyte balance and prevents muscle cramps, while the raw honey and lemon have a ton more benefits besides making the water taste good.
Fresh Juice or Coconut water
- Coconut water is a natural electrolyte drink, rich in potassium and sodium, ideal for recovery and replenishing electrolyte losses
- Fresh juices from certain fruits, such as oranges, cherries, and watermelon, provide antioxidants, glucose, and essential nutrients to help the recovery process.
Fruit Smoothies
- Fruit smoothies are a great way to blend healthy carbohydrates and essential vitamins to support glycogen stores and muscle recovery.
- Aim for local fresh fruits if possible and use raw milk
Raw Milk + Raw Cacao (Real Chocolate Milk)
- Raw milk is packed with protein, calcium, and essential electrolytes, making it an excellent recovery drink. It is also much better than pasteurized milk because the pasteurization process, which involves heating the milk, actually kills and destroy a lot of the nutrient content in raw milk.
- On the other hand, raw cacao is high in antioxidants and magnesium, supporting muscle function and reducing inflammation from high-intensity exercise.
- You’ve probably heard that drinking chocolate milk is great post-workout, but the problem with that is most mainstream chocolate milk drinks are full of nasty ingredients when in reality you only need two main ingredients to make chocolate milk- the chocolate (raw cacao), the milk (raw milk), sweetener (raw honey)
Raw Kefir
- Raw Kefir is a probiotic-rich recovery drink that supports gut health, aids digestion, and enhances nutrient absorption. Packed with beneficial bacteria, it helps maintain a healthy microbiome, which plays an important role in reducing inflammation and improving overall recovery.
- Not only is raw kefir full of probiotics, but it is also high in protein, calcium, and essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, which are necessary for muscle repair and hydration after intense exercise. Unlike commercial yogurts or dairy drinks filled with added sugars and preservatives, raw kefir provides natural, bioavailable nutrients that help replenish energy stores and optimize recovery.
Summary
To summarize, it is no secret that soccer players need proper hydration and nutrition to recover after intense matches and training sessions. In this blog post I highlighted the best natural recovery drinks, including spring water with electrolytes, coconut water, fruit smoothies, raw milk-based drinks, and raw kefir, all of which provide essential nutrients needed for recovery without the nasty chemicals your body does not want or need.
By choosing high-quality, unprocessed ingredients, players can optimize their performance and recovery and maintain peak physical condition on and off the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best and healthiest electrolytes drink for soccer players?
Supplements should only be used to supplement into your diet if you absolutely need to, but by far one of the best supplements for any soccer player is a high quality and clean electrolyte powder mix, such as by Redmond Real Salt.
What should a soccer player diet consist of?
A soccer player’s diet should consist of local fruits and vegetables, high quality carbs, healthy fats, high quality protein, spring water, raw honey, and raw dairy if you can tolerate it. Check out this blog to find out what to eat before a soccer game.
How can I begin improving my soccer skills right now?
Proper hydration is just one of the keys to optimal performance and improving your soccer skills. Another way to begin improving your soccer skills right now is by checking out our post on the best soccer training drills. If you are looking to accelerate your progress, contact us or sign an interest form for our private training program.
