When I was in the Marine's they always told us about the medical benefits of drinking a beer after running. (Carb replacement, etc..) More can be found here


But now, check this out from NBC News.

Sports drinks might be popular, but an Indiana University researcher says that the beverage of choice for an athlete after exercise should be a tall glass of chocolate -- or any flavored -- milk.

Joel Stager, who also is a swimming coach, said he tells his athletes to drink chocolate milk after practice. He said the drink helps muscles refuel and recover.

"It replaces the carbs in the muscle cells," Stager said. "And the other thing it's got going for it, it has a ratio of 4-to-1 carbohydrate to protein. And when athletes are exercising, they need an increased protein intake."

Stager said any flavored milk or any milkshake will do.

"Milkshakes work great. (It) doesn't have to be chocolate," Stager said.

Stager said athletes would do well to drink at least 12 ounces of flavored milk or milkshake after a strenuous workout.