Walking is a great form of exercise for both physical and mental health. It is accessible, low-impact, and can be done just about anywhere without any special equipment.
While walking on its own is beneficial, incorporating a booster drink can help enhance the benefits of this exercise. In this article, we will explore the best walking booster drinks of choice that can fuel your body and improve your walking performance.
: 1. Fresh Coconut Water
Coconut water is a refreshing, low-calorie, and natural electrolyte-rich drink that can keep you hydrated during long walks. The electrolytes in coconut water help to replace the fluids lost through sweating and keep your muscles functioning properly.
It also contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential minerals that support muscle contraction and relaxation. Drinking fresh coconut water before, during, or after a walk can help to prevent dehydration, muscle cramps, and fatigue.
: 2. Green Smoothie
A green smoothie is a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of greens and other essential nutrients. You can make a green smoothie by blending leafy greens like spinach, kale, or lettuce with fruits like banana, apple, or berries.
Adding chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds can boost the protein and fiber content of your smoothie, which can provide sustained energy for longer walks. The antioxidants in green smoothies can also help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by physical activity.
: 3. Beet Juice
Beet juice is a natural pre-workout drink that contains nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles. Drinking beet juice before a walk can help to reduce the oxygen cost of exercise and increase endurance.
A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics shows that drinking beet juice before a 5k walk can lead to a 1-2% improvement in performance. Beet juice can be consumed as a standalone drink or mixed with other fruits and vegetables to create a tasty smoothie.
: 4. Matcha Latte
A matcha latte is a creamy and frothy drink made from green tea powder and almond milk. Matcha is a natural energy booster that contains caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes mental alertness and relaxation.
Drinking matcha latte before a walk can provide a sustained energy boost without the jitters and crashes associated with coffee. Matcha is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve immunity.
: 5. Turmeric Golden Milk
Turmeric golden milk is a traditional Ayurvedic drink made from turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and milk. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice that can help to reduce joint pain and muscle soreness caused by walking.
The ginger in golden milk can also help to prevent nausea and indigestion, which can be common during long walks. The warm and comforting nature of golden milk can also help to promote relaxation and sleep, which are important for recovery and overall well-being.
: 6. Fresh Pineapple Juice
Pineapple juice is a sweet and tangy drink that is rich in bromelain, an enzyme that can help to reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Drinking fresh pineapple juice before or after a walk can help to prevent muscle soreness and boost recovery.
The high vitamin C content of pineapple juice can also help to support immunity and reduce oxidative stress caused by physical activity.
: 7. Electrolyte Sports Drink
An electrolyte sports drink is a commercial drink that is designed to replace fluids and electrolytes lost during exercise.
Sports drinks like Gatorade, Powerade, or nuun can be a convenient option for long walks, especially in hot and humid weather conditions. Electrolyte sports drinks contain sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential minerals for proper hydration and muscle function. Some sports drinks also contain carbohydrates, which can provide quick energy during walks.
: 8. Kombucha Tea
Kombucha tea is a fermented tea drink that contains probiotics, antioxidants, and acetic acid. The probiotics in kombucha can help to improve gut health and digestion, which can be beneficial for long walks that may cause digestive discomfort.
The antioxidants in kombucha can also help to reduce inflammation and improve immunity. The acetic acid in kombucha can stimulate metabolism and increase energy levels without causing caffeine-related side effects. Kombucha tea is available in various flavors and can be a refreshing and low-calorie option for walking booster drinks.
: 9. Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk is a classic post-workout drink that contains protein, carbohydrates, and calcium. The protein in chocolate milk can help to repair and rebuild muscle tissue damaged during walking.
The carbohydrates in chocolate milk can replenish glycogen stores depleted during walking and provide sustained energy for recovery. The calcium in chocolate milk can also help to support bone health and prevent fractures. Chocolate milk is a delicious and convenient option for those who prefer a sweet and creamy drink after a walk.
: 10. Water
Water is the simplest and most important drink for any physical activity, including walking. Drinking enough water before, during, and after a walk can help to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other health complications.
The general recommendation is to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, but this may vary depending on individual factors such as age, body weight, and climate. Keeping a water bottle handy during walks can help to remind you to drink regularly and stay hydrated.
: Conclusion
Walking is a natural and low-cost form of exercise that can improve your physical and mental health. Adding a booster drink to your walking routine can enhance the benefits of this exercise by providing hydration, energy, and nutrients.
Whether you prefer a natural drink like coconut water or beet juice, or a commercial drink like sports drink or kombucha tea, there are many options to choose from. Experiment with different walking booster drinks and find the one that works best for your body and goals.