If you've ever logged miles in chilly weather, you know nothing beats returning home to a steaming hot beverage. Whether you're looking for something nourishing or indulgent, we bet there's a hot mug that will fit the bill. The next time you head out on a frosty run, plan to have one of these beverages waiting for you when you finish.
Coffee
Many of us can't start the day without a cup of Joe, but besides waking you up, research suggests there is also a bevy of health benefits. Coffee has been credited with everything from reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes to boosting memory. And good news, runners—coffee may even help with recovery by reducing muscle pain.Skip sweetened coffee drinks and try sipping it black, or for some extra nutrients, opt for a café au lait, which is half steamed milk and half fresh coffee. If you find yourself dragging after a long or tough run, a cup of coffee might be just what you need to get through the day.
Green Tea
According to a paper published by Harvard University, green tea is rich in plant compounds called flavonoids. Research suggests that flavonoids may help lower inflammation and reduce plaque build-up in your arteries, leading to a lower risk of heart disease. And if you're sensitive to caffeine, good news—a cup of green tea only has about half the amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee.
Submarino
This Argentine version of hot chocolate is easy to make and surprisingly delicious—simply add a square of dark chocolate to a mug of hot milk and stir until dissolved. If you use low-fat cow's milk, you'll get 8 grams of protein, a hefty dose of vitamin D and antioxidants from the dark chocolate—all important for post-run recovery.
Golden Milk Turmeric Tea
This bright orange beverage contains a combination of turmeric and ginger, which are potent anti-inflammatories. It also contains a number of other nutritional powerhouses, such as coconut oil, honey and black pepper.Want to try making golden milk turmeric tea for yourself? Epicurious has a well-tested recipe.
Golden Milk Turmeric Tea, from Epicurious.com
Ingredients, makes two servings:
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, preferably coconut milk or almond milk
- 1 three-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 one-inch piece turmeric, unpeeled and thinly sliced or 1/2 teaspoon dried turmeric
- 1 half-inch piece ginger, unpeeled and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- Ground cinnamon (for serving)
Directions:
Whisk coconut milk, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, honey, coconut oil, peppercorns and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan; bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer until flavors have melded, about 10 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into mugs and top with a dash of cinnamon.
Note: Golden milk can be made five days ahead. Store in an airtight container and chill. Warm before serving.
Chaga Mushroom Tea
Chaga mushrooms are native to Canada and the northern United States and are often found growing on birch trees. These special fungi contain high levels of antioxidants, have been shown to support the immune system and some studies suggest they may even decrease cancer risk.Chaga mushrooms are often sold powdered and can be mixed with hot water or your choice of milk to make a tea-like drink.
Bone Broth
What we think of as bone broth is actually a stock made from the bones and connective tissue of animals or fish. While the jury is still out on whether bone broth can boost the immune system or heal the gut, it does contain a number of amino acids and a good amount of protein—both essential for post-exercise healing. If you're looking to sip something savory that's easy on the stomach, a mug of bone broth could be your new post-run BFF.
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