Egg Nog: The Ultimate Recovery Drink?

In the last few months, there is more research that chocolate milk may be superior to commercially available sports drinks for exercise recovery.

• An article in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research concluded, "Recent work indicates that chocolate milk may be as effective or superior to [commercial beverages] in promoting recovery."
• Another study found unique physiologic benefits of chocolate milk compared to commercial sports drinks regarding muscle repair following exercise.

During this holiday season, I couldn't help but wonder, is egg nog a good recovery drink?

Lets start with a comparison of the two dairy products.  Using the Cass Clay nutritional information (available on the company website), we can compare 2% Swiss Chocolate Milk and Egg Nog:

                  Chocolate Milk Egg Nog 
Serving size:      1 cup,        1/2 cup
Calories:          180 calories, 180 calories
Calories from fat: 45 calories,  80 calories
Total fat:         5 grams,      9 grams
Saturated fat:     3 grams,      5 grams
Cholesterol:       20 mg,        70 mg
Sodium:            190 mg,       120 mg
Carbohydrates:     27 grams,     21 grams
Sugars:            26 grams,     16 grams 
Protein:           8 grams,      5 grams
Vitamin D:         25%,          0%

Comparing the two products, chocolate milk appears superior.  Chocolate milk has less fat and saturated fat, less cholesterol, more sodium, more carbohydrates, and more protein.  The conclusion: chocolate milk is a better recovery drink than egg nog.

I suggest that we make one exception per year.  December 24th is National Egg Nog Day.  For our long run on Saturday, December 24th, I will bring the recovery egg nog!