Ascent Protein, a wholly owned subsidiary of Leprino Foods, Denver, said it launched Recovery Water, a water-based beverage that pairs high-quality protein with electrolytes to help athletes optimally recover post-workout. Made using Ascent's proprietary native whey protein formulation process, it combines both form and function to deliver muscle recovery and hydration.

Ascent said Recovery Water contains 20 grams of fast-digesting native whey protein and 2.5 grams of naturally occurring leucine to trigger muscle protein synthesis. It has 100 calories and zero artificial ingredients. Recovery Water is gluten-free, soy-free and made from whey produced without the artificial growth hormones rBST or rBGH. Ascent also is Informed Choice Certified, meaning the company’s product lines are third-party tested for banned substances.

"This is a big day for our Ascent family across the country," said Paul Vraciu, general manager of Ascent Protein. "Recovery Water represents the most transformative and innovative addition to [our] lineup in our brand's history."

Ascent said Recovery Water was created to support athletes in the crucial recovery time after a workout. Recent research findings suggest that workout recovery is just as important as the time spent in the gym. According to the American Council on Exercise, recovery from exercise and competition is a vital component of the overall exercise training paradigm and "paramount for high-level performance and continued improvement."

The full line of Ascent products helps athletes optimize their performance before, during and after workouts, with clean protein. While Ascent Recovery Water is meant for post-workout, it pairs with Ascent Pre-Workout, which boosts energy and hydration levels prior to a workout, the company said.