We know, it’s hard to believe something as delicious and decadent as chocolate milk can also be good for you. 

Especially when it feels like a lot of the time, we have to sacrifice flavor in order to eat or drink something healthier. 

But what if that wasn’t the case?

Chocolate milk is one of those indulgent drinks that can ACTUALLY be good for your health. After all, there’s a reason it’s the go-to beverage for athletes after a workout. According to Healthline.com “[Chocolate] Milk is considered a complete protein – meaning it provides all nine essential amino acids your body needs.”  

But be careful. While homemade chocolate milk is always an option, it’s often filled with sugar and processed ingredients that do NOT keep your body moving. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of chocolate milk brands on the market that are fortified with important nutrients, and act as a great source of protein. 

Now, let’s prove that chocolate milk is actually good for you.

Protein:

Chocolate milk is considered a high protein snack and therefore is great to have throughout the day, and especially after a workout. Typically containing at least 8g of protein per cup, you’ll want to start reaching for chocolate milk the second you need to repair those muscles. Research shows that protein in chocolate milk may be even more effective than some sports drinks when it comes to increasing endurance and reducing post-work out exhaustion. 

So why aren’t we drinking more of it!?

Electrolytes:

This tasty beverage also helps replace electrolytes that are lost during exercise. According to studies, low-fat chocolate milk naturally provides the same amount of electrolytes (calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium) added to those commercial recovery drinks you see on TV. 

Imagine a coach getting chocolate milk poured on them after a big game… one day.

Increase Bone Mass:

Bones grow throughout childhood and adolescence, while peaking bone mass occurs around the age of 30. The more bone you have at the time of peak bone mass, the less likely you are to break a bone or develop osteoporosis later in life. Chocolate milk is PACKED with calcium and vitamin D, two incredible nutrients needed to keep our bones strong and healthy.  

Translation: Chocolate milk literally makes you stronger.

Weight Management:

Chocolate milk is a nutrient powerhouse. It has the perfect balance of carbohydrates, protein fat and vitamins. Sugar rich drinks like soda and juice are often highly processed and can lead to weight gain. Studies have shown that consuming foods with lower calories, and the right ratio of fat and carbs can help you feel satiated without sacrificing your weight loss goals.  

Yes. We’re saying chocolate milk is not only good for you, but is actually the perfect fitness, energy, or workout drink.

It keeps you moving, repairs your muscle, AND gives your body the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.

Oh yeah… and it’s freaking delicious.

But before you sprint to the store and spend a thousand bucks on choco milk, just remember: 

Not all chocolate milks are created equal.

Find one that has all the benefits above, without the sugar or excess fat.

When you do, it’ll be a match- no, MILK, made in heaven.

 

Cheers,

The Slate Milk Squad

Written by Sam Okrasinski, Contributing Author