Winn Dixie's Organics & Naturals

If you’re looking for a protein-rich, nutritious snack that packs easily into a busy day—and the kids’ lunch boxes—look no further than Greek yogurt. If you’ve already tried it, you know it’s vastly different than the yogurt you grew up with. Repeat straining eliminates water from Greek yogurt, giving it a decadently dense texture and rich flavor. Here’s the best part: Because of its density, Greek yogurt packs almost double the protein of regular yogurt— 10 to 16 grams per serving—making it more filling, too. It also contains fewer carbohydrates and sugars, meaning it can be easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance. Low-fat and nonfat versions are readily available and just as tasty. And, of course, Greek yogurt is a good food source of calcium. –Susan Enfield Esrey Go Greek

Have you noticed that coconut milk has escaped from its can? Long a staple in the Asian foods section for making rich curries, coconut milk now can be found in the refrigerated section (as an alternative fresh milk beverage, coffee creamer, or yogurt) as well as the frozen foods aisle (as ice cream and frozen treats).

Why the coconut explosion? For one, many people are looking for dairy alternatives due to food sensitivities or other concerns. But here’s a secret you can taste: Coconut milk rivals dairy for fat content in a way that rice, soy, and almond can’t—and it’s the fat that makes food so yummy, says Stephen Wengen, ND, director of the IBS Treatment Center and Center for Food Allergies in Seattle. Put simply, these new coconut products are popular partly because they taste so rich.

Good health news: Researchers believe coconut milk’s medium-chain fatty acids, principally lauric acid, have significant health benefits. Found in human breast milk, these healthy fats can boost your immune system, improve digestion, and balance blood sugar. Finally, because they’re absorbed efficiently by the body, they can increase your metabolism and help with weight management.

The coconut trend doesn’t stop with milks. Try coconut water, a touted “natural sports drink” that contains fluids, carbs, and electrolytes. Coconut oil raises HDL “good” cholesterol and makes a great high-heat cooking oil. And coconut flour is a high-fiber, rich-tasting, gluten-free alternative for baking. –Kathryn Leavitt