BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- An Indiana University study says chocolate milk is just as effective, if not more so, than sports drinks for refueling muscles after a workout.

Athletes frequently take in sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, to help muscles recover and help them train with more intensity at their workouts.

The surprising findings of the IU study show that chocolate milk really "does a body good."

Joel Sager, an IU physiologist and coach, tested his theory on the swim team during the summer of 2004. Sager's team hit the pool twice daily and many ran out of steam during the second workout.

Sager suggested that the swim team drink chocolate milk after the morning practice instead of sports drinks. He said there was a huge difference in swimmers' performance and energy level.

Sager said chocolate milk has the right blend of carbohydrates and protein for refueling muscles after exercise.

"It replaces carbs in the muscle cells. The other thing it's got going for it -- it has a ratio of four to one carbohydrates to protein," Sager said. "When athletes are exercising, they need an increased protein intake."

Sager said flavored milkshakes are a good substitute for chocolate milk for anyone who can't stomach milk.