Chocolate Cherry “Nice Cream” Recipe: The Power of Cocoa for Exercise Recovery

Why Cocoa for Recovery?

One of the goals with post-workout nutrition is to optimize blood circulation in order to effectively deliver nutrients and oxygen to muscles for restoration, while also efficiently removing waste products produced by muscles during exercise. Studies have shown that polyphenols and flavanols in natural cocoa powder help optimize blood circulation by reducing blood pressure and increasing the flexibility of the arteries. These cardiovascular benefits may also be due to the production of nitric oxide that is triggered by the consumption of these plant compounds. The antioxidant properties in cocoa further aids in muscle recovery by combating oxidative stress that can occur acutely from exercise.

Keep in mind it is the whole package of what you eat that matters. Chocolate fudge ice cream will have a much different effect than this chocolate cherry “nice cream” made with 100% plant foods. The latter is full of antioxidants, potassium, anti-inflammatory compounds, and whole food nutrition. This makes for a perfect post workout treat that is also hydrating.

Chocolate Cherry Nice Cream Recipe

• 1 frozen banana
• 2/3 cup frozen cherries
• 1/4 avocado
• 1 tsp chia seeds
• 2 Tb cocoa powder
• Dash of vanilla
• Splash of nut milk or water to thin as needed

Blend together and top with cherries and/or walnuts.

About the Author

Lauren has been a registered dietitian for 6 years and helps others develop practical and enjoyable lifelong nutrition habits to improve health, well-being, energy levels, confidence, and digestion. She focuses largely on a whole food, plant-based nutrition approach to health.