Since childhood, we hear about the benefits of milk. We grew up hearing the importance of milk for good health. Unfortunately, some people are unable to digest milk either because of milk allergy or lactose intolerance. Also, vegan people as well do not consume dairy products because of animal origin. In this article, we will discuss some of the healthy non-dairy milk alternatives and how they can be beneficial for our health.
Soy Milk - Soy milk is procured from soybeans. They are an excellent and complete source of plant proteins containing all essential amino acids. Soy milk also contains nutrients like calcium, potassium, vitamin A, D and B12. Being naturally low in calories and fats, soy milk is also a great choice for people aiming to lose weight.
Almond Milk - As the name says, it is made from almonds. Almond milk is also low in calories and saturated fat having mild sweet and nutty flavour. This milk alternative is a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E which makes it a powerful antioxidant. It protects our body against free radical damage and boosts immune health.
Coconut Milk - Coconut milk is made from the white flesh of a coconut. This alternative is one of the favourites and preferred milk by people on a keto diet. This is because coconut milk contains good fats in the form of MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides). These fats promote weight loss and keep our cholesterol levels in check. Coconut milk is also suitable for people with nut allergies. However, due to high-fat content, it should be consumed in moderation if the goal is to lose weight.
Oat Milk - Oat milk is made from milk. The best part about oat milk is that it is rich in a soluble dietary fibre called beta-glucan. This fibre-rich milk keeps our gut healthy, provides fullness for long, maintains bone density, manages blood cholesterol levels and promotes weight loss.
Cashew Milk - Cashew milk is low in calories and fats but it is less in proteins as well. Although cashews are rich in vitamins and minerals most of them are lost during the extraction process of milk. Cashew milk can be used as a creamer, in desserts or diabetics.
All these milk alternatives are good for our health and easily available in the market. Before opting for any of these alternatives, make sure to check the amount of added sugar. Also, dairy and non-dairy milk are often fortified with nutrient like vitamin D, calcium, vitamin B12, etc. Always opt for the one having a better nutritional profile.