A Detailed Look at Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink Nutrition, Benefits, and Downsides

An Introduction to Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink

Coconut milk has become an increasingly popular plant-based milk alternative in recent years. Made from the white flesh of mature coconuts, coconut milk offers a creamy texture and sweet flavor that stands out from other non-dairy milks. One variety that has been gaining attention is evergreen coconut milk drink.

Evergreen coconut milk is produced by Evergreen, a Thai company known for its quality coconut products. Their coconut milk drink is made from fresh coconuts harvested in Thailand and contains no preservatives or stabilizers. It has a smooth, velvety mouthfeel and the refreshing flavor of young Thai coconuts.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Evergreen coconut milk drink - its nutrition facts, health benefits, and how it compares to regular coconut milk and other plant milks. We’ll also provide some tips for using it in recipes and reviews of some popular flavors. Let’s dive in!

Nutrition Facts of Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink

One of the main appeals of plant-based milk alternatives is their nutritional profiles, which are often healthier than dairy milk. Here is a look at the nutrition facts of Evergreen coconut milk drink in the original flavor:

• Calories: 80 per cup
• Fat: 5g per cup
• Saturated fat: 4.5g per cup
• Protein: 0g per cup
• Carbohydrates: 5g per cup
• Sugar: 2g per cup
• Calcium: 10% DV per cup
• Vitamin D: 30% DV per cup
• Potassium: 10% DV per cup

As you can see, Evergreen coconut milk is low in calories, sugar, and carbs compared to 2% dairy milk. It provides a good amount of vitamins and minerals for a plant-based milk while being free of cholesterol and lactose.

The mild coconut flavor comes from the medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut fat. MCTs have been associated with health benefits like improved cognitive function, weight management, and better cholesterol levels.

Potential Health Benefits of Drinking Evergreen Coconut Milk

Research has uncovered some promising health benefits linked to coconut milk consumption. Here are a few ways drinking Evergreen coconut milk could benefit your health:

• Heart health - The MCTs in coconut milk may help lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure.
• Blood sugar control - Coconut milk has a low glycemic index, meaning it won’t lead to spikes in blood sugar.
• Weight management - Replacing higher calorie milks with coconut milk can aid weight loss. The MCTs may also provide a metabolism and energy boost.
• Anti-aging - Coconut milk contains antioxidants like vitamin C and polyphenols that fight free radical damage.
• Immunity - Coconut milk provides antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, and iron that may bolster immune function.

Keep in mind that more research is still needed to confirm some of these benefits. But adding Evergreen coconut milk to your diet could be an easy way to get more coconut nutrition.

How Evergreen Coconut Milk Compares to Regular Coconut Milk

Since Evergreen coconut milk drink is made from fresh young coconuts, it offers some advantages over regular canned coconut milk:

• It has a thinner, more drinkable consistency whereas canned milk is thick and creamy.
• The flavor tends to be lighter and fresher tasting.
• It’s easier to digest due to the lower fat content.
• Nutrients are more bioavailable since it's not processed at high heats.
• No BPA exposure from cans.

On the flip side, canned coconut milk works better for cooking and baking since it can be simmered without separating. It also contains more saturated fat, which may or may not be preferable depending on your diet goals.

Overall, Evergreen coconut milk makes an excellent beverage and adds great coconut flavor to smoothies or light curries. Go with canned milk for richer curries and baking needs.

Evergreen Coconut Milk vs. Other Plant Milks

Compared to other popular plant-based milk alternatives, here is how Evergreen coconut milk stacks up:

• Almond milk - lower in fat and calories but also lower in nutrients.
• Oat milk - more protein but higher carbs; contains gluten.
• Soy milk - more protein; can contain GMOs.
• Rice milk - lower protein and lacks healthy fats.
• Hemp milk - comparable nutrition but stronger flavor.

Coconut milk provides a nice balance of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals compared to other plant milks. Its light tropical flavor also gives it wide appeal.

Tips for Using Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink

Evergreen coconut milk is versatile enough to use in a variety of recipes. Here are some tips:

• Use it straight up as a refreshing beverage over ice.
• Blend it into smoothies for extra nutrition and creaminess.
• Make dairy-free chai tea lattes with coconut milk as the base.
• Add to lighter curries, stir fries, and soups for a dose of coconut.
• Use as a base for overnight oats or chia pudding.
• Mix with coffee for a lower calorie caffeinated beverage.
• Thin it out more for use in desserts like coconut rice pudding.

You can also experiment with making your own flavored coconut milk drinks at home. Blend in vanilla, cocoa powder, coffee, fruits, greens, or spices to customize the flavors.

Popular Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink Flavors

Aside from the original flavor, Evergreen produces coconut milk drinks in a few popular varieties:

• Chocolate - A creamy, chocolatey flavor reminiscent of chocolate milk.
• Coffee - Rich coffee flavor perfect for making frothy cappuccinos.
• Strawberry - Sweet, tart strawberry flavor. Pairs well with bananas.
• Vanilla - Subtly sweetened with vanilla bean for a dessert-like taste.

Their seasonal and limited edition flavors have included matcha, pumpkin spice, eggnog, and more. The flavored varieties work well on their own or in various recipes.

Reviews of Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink

Evergreen coconut milk has received many positive reviews praising it for:

• Having an authentic, fresh coconut taste
• Mixing and foaming well in coffee-based drinks
• Adding a rich flavor and creaminess to smoothies
• Going well with tropical fruits like pineapple and mango
• Having a naturally sweet taste without overpowering coconut

Some negative reviews mention the milk separating if not shaken well before using. Others felt the taste was too coconutty for their preferences. But overall, most reviews indicate it as having an enjoyable flavor and texture.

How to Select Quality Evergreen Coconut Milk

Since the quality of coconut milk can vary greatly by brand, here are some tips for picking a good Evergreen coconut milk drink:

• Check the ingredients - It should contain coconut extract and water as the first 2 ingredients.
• Avoid additives - Opt for unsweetened versions without unnecessary stabilizers or preservatives.
• Go for BPA-free packaging - Cans and cartons should be BPA-free to avoid chemical contamination.
• Refrigerate after opening - Store opened coconut milk in the fridge and use within 4-5 days.
• Look for USDA certified organic - This ensures quality, sustainable practices were used.
• Know where it’s sourced from - Thailand and Vietnam produce great coconuts.

Freshness is also key with coconut milk - try to buy it with the furthest expiration date possible. Give the can a shake before opening to reincorporate any separation.

Is Homemade Coconut Milk Better?

While the convenience of store-bought coconut milk can't be beat, making it yourself at home does have some advantages:

• Total control over ingredients - no preservatives or additives.
• Adjust thickness and flavor to your preferences.
• Often less expensive than buying canned.
• Can use fresh young coconuts for better flavor.
• Avoid BPA exposure from cans.

Homemade coconut milk may also contain more fiber since it isn't strained as much. But it requires more time and effort versus grabbing coconut milk off the shelf.

How to Make Your Own Coconut Milk at Home

If you want to try making your own homemade coconut milk, follow these simple steps:

1. Gather ingredients - 2 cups shredded coconut, 4 cups hot water, a strainer, cheesecloth
2. Blend - Add coconut and hot water to a blender. Blend on high for 2-3 minutes until very smooth and creamy looking.
3. Strain - Drape cheesecloth over a bowl and slowly pour blender contents through strainer lined with cheesecloth. Gather edges and squeeze cheesecloth to press out milk.
4. Refrigerate - Transfer strained coconut milk to a container and refrigerate up to 4 days. The coconut pulp can be reserved for other uses.
5. Use in recipes - Shake or stir before using to evenly distribute cream. Enjoy in smoothies, oats, coffee drinks, curries, etc.

For thicker, creamier milk, reduce the water to 3 cups. For thinner milk, add more water. You can also use a milk bag instead of cheesecloth if you prefer.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Coconut Milk

To optimize your homemade coconut milk, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh, unsweetened coconut if possible - avoid dried coconut flakes.
• Opt for white meat coconut instead of brown for better flavor.
• Blend very thoroughly until no chunks remain.
• Wring out the cheesecloth well to extract all the creamy milk.
• Use coconut milk quickly or freeze for longer storage.
• Stir or shake before using as separation can occur.
• Rinse blender immediately after to remove coconut fat residue.

Making your own coconut milk may take some trial and error but once perfected, you can customize it to your liking.

Potential Downsides of Drinking Evergreen Coconut Milk

While coconut milk has many benefits, there are a few potential downsides to be aware of:

• Allergies - Those with tree nut allergies may want to exercise caution with coconut.
• High saturated fat - The high saturated fat may be concerning for some heart health conditions.
• GI issues - Some find coconut products hard to digest and can cause discomfort.
• Carrageenan concerns - Many commercial brands use this additive but there are health concerns around it.
• Environmental impact - Coconuts must be shipped long distances which increases their carbon footprint.

Those with diabetes or watching their weight should also take the calories and fat content into account when consuming larger amounts. But overall, coconut milk remains one of the healthier plant-based milk options.

The Bottom Line on Evergreen Coconut Milk Drink

Evergreen delivers an authentic coconut milk made from fresh young Thai coconuts. It has a pleasant, mildly sweet flavor perfect for drinking on its own or adding to smoothies, coffee drinks, teas, chia puddings, light curries, and more.

Compared to regular canned coconut milk, Evergreen drink has a thinner, more drinkable consistency and fresher, less processed taste. It provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and healthy fats in each serving.

While the convenience of buying coconut milk is great, you can also easily make your own homemade version to control thickness, flavors, and ingredients. Just be sure to use fresh, unsweetened coconut and strain very well through cheesecloth.

Coconut milk is generally safe for most people but those with allergies or watching saturated fat intake may want to limit use. Portion control is key to enjoying the many benefits coconut milk has to offer as part of a healthy diet.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.