Lifeway Organic Green Kefir

Tasty enough to sip by itself, this creamy, green tea-flavored kefir also can be mixed with fruit and cereal for a refreshing parfait.Give breakfast a boost—of protein, vitamins, and good-for-your-gut probiotics.  

The product: Lifeway Organic Green Kefir ($4.49 for a 32-ounce bottle; available at Whole Foods)


The taste factor: Tangy, sweet, and super creamy. Green tea extract mixed with kiwi, passion fruit, pomegranate, and blueberry gives this thick milk beverage enough flavor to stand alone as a drinkable snack. Or mix in some fruit or cereal for a heartier morning meal.

The health factor: The nutrient-packed drink is loaded with low-fat protein—12g per serving—plus 10 probiotics (for good digestive function) and a full serving of vegetables. One cup serves up 30 percent of your day's vitamin E goal (for healthy skin), 25 percent of the vitamin D you need, 30 percent of the calcium you need (think strong bones), and 100 percent of your daily vitamin C. Plus you get the immune-system benefits of green tea's antioxidants. 

Editor's pick: I mixed the Pomegranate Acai Blueberry with some sliced banana and a handful of bran cereal for a tangy, crunchy parfait that kept my stomach quiet through lunch—and my taste buds happy.

Why we love it: All the nutrition of your favorite foods in one tasty, convenient snack! When time runs short, this drinkable smoothie packs the nutrients your body needs—and keeps the taste factor up.

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