Three Surprising Health Benefits of Chocolate Milk

Chocolate milk is a childhood favorite that has become an adult staple for its many health benefits, including some that might surprise you!

3 Health Benefits of Chocolate Milk

Chocolate milk is the perfect recovery beverage - Chocolate milk is called nature’s recovery beverage because it provides a natural source of high-quality protein, which helps build lean muscles, as well as the perfect combination of carbohydrates and protein to help tired muscles after a hard workout. Additionally, the fluid and electrolytes—like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium—rehydrate and replenish critical nutrients lost in sweat.
Flavored is fine for kids - Both flavored and white milk provide the same nine essential nutrients, which are important for children’s growth and development. Flavored milk consumption is not associated with weight gain or increased daily sugar intake. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that flavored milk is integral in ensuring school-age children consume vital nutrients.
Chocolate milk may be tolerated by people with lactose intolerance - Exciting research shows that those with lactose intolerance can tolerate chocolate milk better than unflavored milk. The reason for this may be that cocoa slows stomach emptying, giving the body longer to break down the lactose. Delicious news for those who are lactose intolerant!

Try using chocolate milk in some of our favorite dairy recipes.

Lanier Dabruzzi, MS, RD, LD

For many dads, back-to-school comes with early mornings, packed lunches, after-school pickup, homework, and practices. The daily race to get everyone out the door on time, mixed with juggling life demands, makes healthy eating challenging. Despite this, the busy back-to-school season also brings an opportunity to play an active role in building healthy habits at home.