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VS |
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| 1 Protein Unit | Units | 1 Protein Unit |
| 20g | Protein | 20g |
| < 2g | Carbohydrates | 60g | 2:1 Ratio |
| 50mg sodium | Electrolytes | 400mg sodium + Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium |
| After training for muscle recovery | Best used | After intense training when another intense effort is coming soon, for muscle recovery and carbohydrate replenishment |
| Throughout the day or as a double portion before bed | Also suitable | As an extra source of calories |
When should I choose a recovery drink instead of a protein shake?
The right choice between a recovery drink or a protein shake depends on your recovery needs. A protein shake, such as the 6d Whey Shake, provides pure protein and is ideal after strength training, low-intensity endurance efforts, or when you're consciously limiting your energy intake. It's also the best option for those who prefer to get their carbohydrates from whole foods.
A recovery drink, such as the 6d Recovery Shake, contains proteins as well as carbohydrates and electrolytes. This extra energy and hydration are essential after a long or intense workout that has depleted your carbohydrate stores and fluid levels, especially if you need to perform again within 48 hours. In that case, the Recovery Shake is the best choice. For athletes with high energy demands who struggle to eat enough, a recovery shake after training is also a practical option.
Whey protein vs. milk protein: what is best for athletes?
Most ready-made protein shakes contain about 20% whey and 80% milk protein (casein). Both are complete proteins, but athletes looking for the best protein source choose whey protein due to its rapid absorption and high leucine content—a key amino acid for muscle growth. That’s why we use as much whey protein as possible and only switch to alternatives when needed for the right flavor or texture.
A 20g serving (1 Protein Unit) of protein is ideal after training or at any time of day. Before bedtime, a double serving (40g = 2 Protein Units) is recommended. Even then, our whey protein products are the most powerful and practical protein source, delivering the same dose in a more compact volume with less fat and carbohydrates (lactose) compared to ready-made shakes.
Your choice of whey protein powder also influences the taste and texture. The 6d Whey Shake, made from a premium blend of whey protein isolate and concentrate, has a creamy taste and is perfect for mixing into smoothies, oatmeal, or other dishes.
The 6d Whey Drink, based on pure whey isolate, is consumed solely as a protein drink. It can be compared to a fresh, fruity lemonade. The 6d Whey Shot has the same refreshing flavor but is extra convenient for on-the-go thanks to its compact volume. All of these products are equally effective for your recovery—the choice mainly comes down to personal preference.
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| Units | 1 Protein Unit | 1 Protein Unit | 1 Protein Unit |
| Protein | 20g | 20g | 20g |
| Calories | 96 kcal | 84 kcal | 90 kcal |
| Sugars (lactose) | <1.0g | <0.1g | <2.0g |
| Description | Creamy shake | Fresh & fruity drink | Fresh & fruity shot |
| Best used | After training | ||
| Also suitable | Throughout the day or as a double portion before bed | ||
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VS |
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| <40 kcal (low-calorie) | Calories | 105 kcal |
| <8g (low) | Carbohydrates | 25g |
| 900mg sodium + Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium |
Electrolytes | None |
| Neutral pH (non-acidic) | Acidity | Moderately to very acidic |
| (to be diluted in water) To quickly and efficiently replace extreme sweat loss |
Best used for recovery | Before and during a key competition period with limited recovery time |
Electrolytes and antioxidants for optimal recovery
In most cases, the dose of electrolytes in our 6d Recovery Shake is sufficient for optimal recovery. But after a heavy endurance workout with significant fluid and electrolyte loss, it’s recommended to drink about 1.5 times your lost body weight within 6 hours. Weigh yourself before and after training to monitor your loss. By replenishing fluid loss with 6d Hydro ORS, you'll retain up to 40% more fluid thanks to its high sodium content compared to water or sports drinks with less sodium. This makes it ideal after intense and consecutive endurance efforts, especially in extremely hot and humid weather, where rapid and effective rehydration is essential.
Additional antioxidants in the form of 6d Cherry Juice can accelerate recovery after intense efforts. They reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the muscles, which relieves soreness and promotes recovery. However, during a regular training phase, cherry juice is less desirable. A certain amount of "muscle stress" is actually needed during this phase because it stimulates muscle adaptation and leads to better performance in the long run. The anti-inflammatory effect of cherry juice may interfere with that natural process. That’s why cherry juice is especially suitable leading up to or during an intense competition period when the body has little time to recover naturally.