What I'm Loving Now

I have been drinking Rice Dream for the last few years now.  A coworker recently suggested I try Almond and Coconut Milk. You can either buy the cartons separately or Almond Breeze makes it in an unsweetened combined fashion.  I am totally hooked now and have replaced my Rice Dream with this delicious alternative.  It tastes so creamy that it is hard to believe that this beverage is so low in saturated fat.  Many thanks to BM for turning me on to this!   Here are some of the amazing benefits that you will gain………….

Almond milk, which is made from ground almonds, is an excellent choice for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. It  contains no lactose or cholesterol and it is rich in Vitamin E (about half the amount needed daily). If you desire healthy skin, drink almond milk. Vitamin E is essential when taking care of your skin. It protects against the sun, as well as, acts as a great moisturizer and anti-aging remedy. Other benefits of almond milk are healthy eyes and bones and weight management. Almond milk also contains Vitamin A, which is essential in helping our eyes function properly. It also comprises 30% of our daily calcium requirement and 25% of our Vitamin D requirements, both of which are both important in creating strong bones. Plain almond milk contains 60 calories for one 8 oz. drink, which is a great option when trying to lose weight. Diabetics can also benefit from almond milk due to the low sugar content.

Coconut milk, like almond milk, is another great choice for weight loss. Regular coconut milk has only 50 calories and 5 grams of fat per serving and is low in cholesterol. Even the fat is a good fat (it is much easier to metabolize). It also helps one feel full quickly due to high concentrations of dietary fiber. Coconut milk is also a great option when trying to maintain a healthy immune system. It contains lauric acid, also found in breast milk, which helps babies fight off infections and viruses.  Coconut milk is full of vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals. It does not contain much calcium but it does have a large amount of phosphorus. Phosphorus is an important nutrient in strengthening our bones. So even though calcium is not abundant, it is still a good option in maintaining healthy bones. Coconut milk produces an abundant amount of iron, which is essential in preventing anemia. Anemia occurs when the red blood cells don't contain enough hemoglobin, which is an iron-rich protein that produces the red color in blood. Coconut milk supplies the body with a quarter of the iron needed daily.

So, you see, the combined effects of both of these products make them a vitamin powerhouse.  Grab a carton today and drink a glass daily, use it in your cereals (hot or cold) and in your coffee and tea.  Before long, you will be as addicted as I am:)