Chocolate milk is more than just a sweet treat. The drink you enjoyed as a kid actually has many nutritious benefits, in addition to its delicious, chocolatey taste.

It’s a Nutrient Powerhouse
Nutrition experts recommend adults consume three servings of milk and milk products a day, as milk is one of the top sources for three key nutrients – calcium, vitamin D and potassium.

And like regular milk, chocolate milk provides eight essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D and potassium, as well as protein, vitamins A and B12, riboflavin and phosphorus.

It Ups the Calcium Ante
According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 50 percent of boys ages 9-13, girls ages 9-18, women over 50 and men over 70 are failing to meet their daily calcium requirements from diet alone.

“Calcium is one of the most important minerals for the human body,” said Katherine Brooking, MS, RD, Appetite for Health. “Not only is calcium essential for building strong, healthy bones, it also helps muscles, nerves and hormones function optimally.”

Made with 50 percent more calcium per serving than regular low-fat white milk, TruMoo Calcium Plus low-fat chocolate milk is the perfect way to introduce more calcium into your diet. With no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial growth hormones and no artificial sweeteners, you can feel great about enjoying it on its own or using it as a base in delicious smoothies, such as the Fuel Up Smoothie and Chocolate Berry Blast Smoothie.

It Helps Build Bone Mass
Bones grow throughout childhood and adolescence, with peak bone mass occurring around age 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.

Meeting daily calcium and vitamin D needs by consuming foods rich in calcium, such as low-fat chocolate milk, or other low-fat dairy products like yogurt and fortified cereal, can help build strong, healthy bones and, as part of a well-balanced diet, may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

It’s a Great Workout Recovery Drink
Recent studies have shown that, compared to juice, water or some sports drinks, low-fat chocolate milk’s unique blend of carbohydrate and protein is ideal for replenishing tired muscles. Its high water content replaces fluids and electrolytes that are lost during exercise.

Unlike water or most sports drinks, low-fat chocolate milk, such as TruMoo Calcium Plus, packs the additional benefit of calcium and includes a great balance of sodium and sugar – which may help you stay hydrated longer and regain energy. 

Learn more about TruMoo Calcium Plus at TruMoo.com.

Chocolate Berry Blast Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup TruMoo Calcium Plus low-fat chocolate milk
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• 1 tablespoon golden flaxseed meal

Preparation

1. In blender, combine chocolate milk, frozen mixed berries and flaxseed meal. Blend until smooth and frothy. Serve.

Fuel Up Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups TruMoo Calcium Plus low-fat chocolate milk
• 1/2 cup baby kale
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 tablespoon almond butter

Preparation

1. In blender, combine chocolate milk, baby kale, ice cubes and almond butter. Blend until smooth and frothy. Serve.

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