återhämtningsal

Återhämtningsal is a Swedish term used in discussions of post-exercise nutrition to describe a beverage or formulation intended to support recovery after physical activity. The word combines återhämtning (recovery) with a suffix that signals a product category, rather than a fixed scientific definition. It is not an official medical term and is used mainly in consumer, coaching, and sports-science contexts.

In practice, återhämtningsal refers to drinks or supplements designed to replace fluids and nutrients lost during exercise and to support processes such as glycogen replenishment and muscle repair. They are typically consumed after training sessions or competitions and can vary widely in composition and branding.

Common components include carbohydrates to replenish glycogen, electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to aid rehydration, and protein or amino acids to support muscle protein synthesis. Some formulations may include vitamins, minerals, fiber, or additional ingredients; sugar content and caffeine presence are variable and should be considered for individual health goals and tolerances.

Evidence for effectiveness aligns with broader sport-nutrition research: carbohydrate–protein combinations consumed within a few hours after exercise may improve recovery metrics compared with carbohydrate alone, and adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement supports rehydration and performance in subsequent sessions. However, results depend on exercise type, duration, intensity, and individual factors, and there is no universal standard for what constitutes återhämtningsal.

Regulatory status varies by country; these products are usually sold as foods or dietary supplements rather than medicines, with safety guidance and label information provided by manufacturers. See also post-exercise nutrition, sports drink, electrolyte drink.