Let's talk about coconut milk.

You can get coconut milk from cans, cartons, or boxes, and you can even make it at home! Canned coconut milk or coconut cream generally has the most flavor, and a few brands (like Trader Joe's) even make sure that there's no BPA or nasty additives (e.g. Guar gum, that wreaks havoc on the digestive system.) We used Trader Joe's brand in this recipe, for full coconut flavor with no compromises on health. 

Just like everyone's favorite oil (coconut oil, of course,) coconut milk (and cream) has so many health benefits! It has strong antimicrobial properties, which means that it helps your body fight off infections, viruses, and disease better which gives your immune system a break.

It also has healthy fats that gives you energy and keeps you full for longer. 

The amino acids in coconut milk help your body repair tissues and cells which is helpful after birth in the event that tearing happens. We hope not, but hey, a girl's gotta be prepared, right?

And to top it all off, coconut milk is a great hydrator post-workout, and helps keep the digestive system regular (even when you've got a baby pressing on those intestines making things go not so smoothly.) 

If you've never tried coconut milk, this is the perfect recipe to give it a shot with! It's creamy and refreshing (and tastes a lot like your favorite tropical cocktail, the piña colada!) It's easy to make, and good for cooling off by the pool while you sun your baby bump...or chase a toddler. Whatever is more accurate, right?;)

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Trader Joe's light coconut milk
• 1/2 cup Trader Joe's canned coconut cream
• 1/3 small frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 Tbsp shredded coconut + 1 Tbsp for topping

Directions:

1. Throw all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth

2. Pour in a cold glass and top with 1 Tbsp shredded coconut (*optional)

Enjoy life in "island time" while you sip and enjoy this refreshing tropical beverage!

Don't forget to pin it!