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Uses for Coconut Milk

The use of coconut milk has grown in recent years as many markets have found ways to use its natural properties. Although it has a higher fat and caloric content than cow's milk, it surpasses it in many nutrients and, like cow's milk, has more than dietary uses. As the shift from animal-based products increases, products from coconut milk can offer alternatives.

  1. As a Dairy Substitute

    • Because many people are lactose intolerant and cannot ingest dairy products, coconut milk as a substitute has gained in popularity due. The milk's natural thickness makes it a viable substitute for cream and allows you to use it in coffee. Many cooks will use coconut milk in cakes and other desserts. The milk not only adds richness, but the light coconut flavor adds a taste bonus. Several brands of dairy-free ice creams in many flavors use coconut milk as the base. Coconut milk processed in the /2-gallon cartons is available if you choose to pour it over your cereal.

    To Your Health

    • Coconut milk may have anti-carcinogenic and antiviral properties, seen as disease- and infection-fighting qualities; drinking coconut milk regularly may allow you to gain these benefits. Coconut milk also contains lauric acid, also found in human mother's milk. (Mother's milk promotes positive outcomes in health, growth, brain development and infection protection.) Many studies also advocate for the antiviral properties in coconut milk one day becoming a supplementary treatment for HIV infections.

    Body and Bath

    • If you have ever noticed milk in skin-care products, you can understand the similar value of coconut milk. Coconut milk is now a common ingredient in facial and body scrubs. Similar to milk baths, coconut milk baths can soothe and moisturize irritated skin. Because coconut milk has a higher natural oil content than cow's milk, it does a better job of infusing moisture into the skin and stays on the surface for longer periods. Body washes often contain coconut milk for this reason. For the care of the hair follicle, coconut milk's oil content acts as a protectant found in shampoos and conditioners.

    Organic Choices

    • The difference between organic and conventional coconut milk is something to consider. Organic coconut milk products may be better for you because of the methods used to bring it to the table. Organic coconuts are grown using organic farm methods with no pesticides in their development and processing. Further, ingestible products such as milks carry the "organic" designation when they do not include artificial preservatives and flavors. Telling the difference can prove difficult; for the best guide, look at the label of the product for a verified organic symbol.

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