News flash: Texas is H to the O.T. Hot hot hot. I'm still kicking myself for signing up for a fall race. It's hit 100 degrees here every day for the last week. Woof. Still, there's no way in heck I'm going to do all my long runs on the treadmill. Nosiree. Instead, I'm dragging my butt outta bed early to get those Rock'n'Roll Philly training miles in before the sun can bear down on me with all its stupid strength. The only problem with that? What the morning may lack in heat it makes up for with humidity. Still, I'd rather run in 76 degrees with 100% humidity than 101 degrees and low humidity.
Either way, I'm going to be finishing my run looking like a sweat-tastic unicorn. Correction: I'm going to be finishing my run looking like a sweat-tastic, hangry and parched unicorn.
The best way to turn back into a stunning, relaxed, sparkling unicorn is to get some quality nutrients and electrolytes back in my system. Cue this Cherry Pomegranate Electrolyte Smoothie.
It's important to get in quality carbs and protein after a tough workout, ideally in a 3:1 ratio. My favorite way to do so is blending up a protein-rich fruit smoothie. Protein powder is great for adding flavor and rebuilding your muscles after putting them under stress, and the right combo of fruits can have some serious recovery benefits, as well.
What sort of benefits are we talking? Mostly, restoring everything your body needs to reduce muscle pain and inflammation and get your body back "up to speed" for your next workout. One of the most important things to replenish is electrolytes.
I'm sure you've heard of electrolytes before, but what exactly are they?
Electrolytes are minerals (think salts) that have an electric charge. These charges help regulate the amount of water in your body and trigger the nerves that help the muscles in your body (including your heart) function properly. They also help keep you hydrated, which is a key part of, you know, living.
When you workout, you sweat, which means you lose water. Without electrolytes, you can chug water all day but your body may not be retaining it properly. Basically, without electrolytes, your body would just stop working. Ever cramp up during a run? That's a sign your body is dangerously low on electrolytes. DUN DUN DUUUUUUNNNNN!
But fret not, my sweaty friends. That's why this smoothie is jam packed with electrolytes!
First of all, it has banana for a dose of potassium and magnesium (electrolytes!) It also has cherries which have more potassium, aka more electrolytes! But I took this electrolyte smoothie's power even further by adding Ultima Electrolyte Replenisher to the mix.
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder contains a perfect balance of six electrolytes (calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium) plus support minerals that work together to provide complete hydration. It's great to mix into your water during a long run and makes your post run smoothie that much more nutrient-rich (and delicious).
This particular electrolyte smoothie is made with Ultima's Cherry Pomegranate powder, and man, not only did it take this smoothie to a whole other level of electrolyte boosting, but it also took it to a whole other level of deliciousness. It added flavor and sweetness without adding calories or sugar.
Yep, you read that correctly. Ultima is made with clean, plant-based ingredients and is both sugar and calorie free. It's also vegan, gluten-free, caffeine free, soy free, keto-friendly, paleo-friendly and non-GMO. Basically, it's for everyone!
I have yet to try all the flavors, but so far, my favorites are the Cherry Pomegranate and the Lemonade (it really does taste just like lemonade). The orange is also pretty tasty. If you aren't mixing it into a smoothie, you can mix it with 16 oz (or more if you find it too sweet) of water and hydrate on up.
I've found Ultima to be great to have on hand both during my runs and for recovery. Want to give it a shot? Get 15% OFF when you visit Ultima's Amazon Storefront and use the code ULTIMABR (be sure to use all caps). Get yourself some Cherry Pomegranate (or a variety pack) and make my Cherry Pomegranate Electrolyte Smoothie!
Let's Chat:
Do you pay attention to your electrolytes?
Which flavor would you try first?