Water bottles adorned with the Bodyarmor logo are frequently spotted hydrating players during NHL games. But during the 2026 Winter Olympics, all sorts of food and drinks have made their way onto the benches of various national teams.
The most viral example came on Sunday during Germany’s matchup against the United States. Edmonton Oilers superstar forward Leon Draisaitl could be seen housing mustard packets during the game.
“Mustard is really good for cramps,” Draisaitl explained to EurosportDE in German, and translated by Google Translate. “When I get cramps, it’s practically the only thing that works best for me, in my opinion. And every now and then, when I feel like I might get one, I’m a bit proactive and eat a spoonful of mustard.”
“So you’ve been doing that for a while now, and quite often,” the host said. “So you’d recommend mustard to me, too?”
“I probably don’t get cramps as often as you do, but when I do, I reach for some mustard,” Draisaitl replied.
According to the People’s Pharmacy and Peloton, mustard can help some people with muscle cramps by triggering a neural reflex in the mouth and throat. Compounds in mustard, such as vinegar and mustard oils, stimulate TRP (transient receptor potential) channels in the throat, which then, in turn, send a signal that interrupts hyperactive nerve signals causing the cramp. Pickle juice can also be effective for similar reasons.
Unlike with Draisaitl’s technique, mustard is generally used to eliminate an active cramp rather than prevent one. The method does not work for everyone or for every type of cramp.
Not only has that popular condiment made it bench-side, but so has applesauce. The United States women’s hockey team, in their game against Sweden on Monday, had GoGo SqueeZ applesauce packets packed into water bottle holders that hung on the boards behind them.
Applesauce is a low-fiber, low-fat food that is easily digestible and provides both hydration and energy. The simple sugars in the puree can raise blood glucose levels quickly, providing immediate energy to working muscles. The puree can quickly recharge players without causing stomach discomfort.
As far as drinks, the United States women’s team had blue Powerades within a hand’s reach. Denmark went the Alex Ovechkin route, drinking bottles of Coke on the bench.
The unconventional soda practice made famous by Ovechkin offers a high-calorie sugar and caffeine boost that could help players maintain their energy and focus during games.
Coming into the Olympics, food was a popular discussion point, but mostly because of the opportunity for athletes to chow down on genuine Italian cuisine. Capitals’ winger Tom Wilson, however, was more worried about food insecurity despite a 24/7 dining hall provided in the Olympic Village. The NHL, which has earned the nickname the “Never Hungry League” from players behind the scenes, offers a constant supply of high-quality menu items that help them take care of their bodies.
“I’ve heard from some Olympians that sometimes food in the village can be hard to find,” Wilson said. “Cassie was saying if you see a banana, grab it, because you never know when the next kind of food is going to be available, and all the athletes want the same stuff.”
