Post-workout drinks are nothing new in the fitness world. What was once a sugary-dominated category, we now have a slew of beverages that promise to hydrate and replenish electrolytes after a major sweat session without the added artificial ingredients and processed sugars.
One new-ish addition to the hydration scene is maple water. If you have seen this drink around and you are wondering if it is actually a good option to consider, keep reading to learn all about this water alternative.
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What is Maple Water?
If you have an understanding of how pure maple syrup is made, then you already know what maple water is without even realizing it. To make maple syrup, a maple tree is tapped, and the sap that is naturally occurring flows from the tree trunk into a vessel. That sap is then boiled down to create a syrup that you can enjoy with your pancakes or waffles.
If you stop the maple syrup-making process before the sap is reduced, you will be left with a bucket of maple sap–also known as maple water.
In a nutshell? Maple water is the liquid that is naturally occurring in a maple tree. This “water”, or sap, can be boiled and reduced into a syrup, or it can be enjoyed as-is.
Is Maple Water Healthy?
Maple water is a slightly sweet drink that has no added sugars and is chock-full of certain electrolytes. So, assuming it is enjoyed as a part of a balanced and healthy diet, it can be healthy.
Twelve ounces of maple water provides 30 calories, 7 grams of sugar, 0 grams of added sugar, and some calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains prebiotic fiber, which may help support gut health, and antioxidants. And impressively, this serving contains a whopping 40% DV of manganese.
However, it’s important to note that maple water does not contain sodium, which can be a key concern for people who need to replenish this important electrolyte after a strenuous workout.
Can Maple Water Be a Good Post-Workout Drink?
Depending on your workout, maple water can be a good post-workout drink. It is hydrating, provides electrolytes, and is free from any added sugar, colors, flavors, or anything artificial.
The natural sugars can help refuel the body, and the antioxidants may help combat the oxidative stress that your body can be experiencing after an intense workout. Best of all? It tastes fantastic, which may motivate people to actually drink it and replenish their fluids.
Where to Find Maple Water
Luckily, maple water is now being maple available at grocery stores. Brands like Drink Simple Maple Water bottles the sap and provides it to retailers nationwide for people to enjoy.
Maple Water Is An Electrolyte-Packed Post-Workout Hydration Solution
Instead of leaning on hydration solutions that are made with artificial ingredients and added sugars, sipping on maple water after a workout can fuel your body with fluid, electrolytes, and glucose to help support your body’s recovery. While it is true that this beverage doesn’t contain sodium, it does offer calcium, magnesium, and potassium to help your body find the balance that it needs. Pairing this drink with a snack that contains protein and sodium may be a perfect balance that replenishes the body in a natural way.
