Firstly I HATE fake sugar. So the flavor isn't great for me but I've found if I mix it with 20-22oz of Cold water then it's a lot more palatable for me. Not sure how it happens but mine didn't come with a scoop, so that's super annoying (I used a fork to rake around in there just hoping but alas, no scoop). Luckily I had a scoop from something else and used a scale to measure out how much of the scoop I need. As for after workout, I think it helps. I've been working out fairly aggressively for about a month and a half without taking a post workout drink. I've since started this and already feel like my recovery is quicker. I will buy again and might try a different flavor next time