Tropical island and coastal populations, like those of Hawaii, the Philippines and the Caribbean have long recognized the wonderful taste and healthy benefits of coconut milk, and have made it a dietary staple for centuries. Unlike the water that is inside every coconut, coconut milk is made by grating the white inner flesh of a mature coconut, and then mixing a small amount of water in which actually suspends its rich fat content. The mixture is then pressed, and the resulting “milk” is graded by its fat content — from thick (20-22%) to thin (5-7%). The fat is made up of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), and they can be used to replace long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) like animal fat in a person’s diet. And that can help maintain a healthy weight without causing an increase in cholesterol. One of the most important MCFSAs is Lauric Acid, a potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal that is plentiful in human milk. And because your body doesn’t store coconut milk fats, there’s less chance of clogged arteries, and heart disease.

Good fats are just the beginning of coconut milk’s dietary benefits. It is an ideal replacement for dairy milk since it is easily digested. It can be enjoyed plain, in a prepared dish, or as a superfood ingredient in a smoothie and ice cream. It’s full of B Vitamins, C and E, and is also rich in magnesium, phosphorus, iron and potassium. It’s loaded with antioxidants that can fight free radicals and rebuild cells damaged by them. Want more? It’s also great for your skin!

So the next time you’re in a tropical island paradise, or your local supermarket, grab some coconuts, take them home and make some milk. Too much work? Then just reach for a container of organic coconut milk. Or an even better, more delicious way to get all the benefits of this liquid superfood is to sink a spoon into some MUD, our vanilla, chocolate and coffee dairy free ice cream. There’s so much pure, organic coconut milk in every bite, your mouth may say “Wow” in every tropical language you know.

The above information is for educational purposes only, and gathered from a variety of different sources. It should not be construed as medical advice, or as an endorsement of any particular product. Your healthcare provider is your best source for medical and nutritional direction, and should be consulted on any health decision you make.

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