You just finished a tough workout on court. What’s the first thing you grab? Water? Gatorade?

Have you ever considered chocolate milk?

Physiologist Joel Stager, director of the Human Performance laboratory at Indiana University, has named this kids’ favorite an optimal post-exercise recovery aid.

Before you gag, hear me out.

• Compared to plain milk, water, or most sports drinks, chocolate milk has double the carbohydrates and protein content, perfect for tired muscles.
• Its high water content replaces the fluids lost while sweating, preventing dehydration.
• It contains calcium and a little sodium and sugar, which helps athletes retain water and regain energy.
• The caffeine in chocolate dilates and relaxes blood vessels, helping oxygen-rich blood reach your muscles more quickly and easily.

For the high-endurance athlete, it is a catch-all workout recovery drink.

Next time you finish a match or big workout, try chocolate milk. I dairy you (sorry, I couldn’t resist the cow pun).