What is plant-based milk?
Plant-based milk are an alternative to cow’s milk for those on a plant-based diet, like vegans and vegetarians. There are several different types of plant-based milks available in grocery stores throughout the United States that are made from a wide variety of plant-based sources like soy, almond, oats and coconuts.
And plant-based milk isn’t just an alternative option for plant eaters. It’s also lactose-free and cholesterol free, and is an ideal choice for those with lactose intolerances or any number of other health issues.
What kinds of plant-based milk are there?
There are quite a few plant-based milks, which are also referred to as “dairy-free” milks, on the market today. With so many varieties, I recommend looking at your personal needs and consider any allergies or intolerances you have, then selecting the best plant-based milk for you. With that said, here are most popular plant-based milks on the market:
Soy milk: Soy milk is made with soybeans and offers a good amount of protein and calcium. It’s also free of cholesterol and saturated fat, which makes it a healthier option than cow’s milk.
Almond milk: Almond milk is made when almonds are soaked in water than ground into a paste. After the paste is created, its mixed with water and strained to remove any remaining chucks of almond. The end result is almond milk. As you probably expect, almond milk has a nutty flavor.
Oat milk: Most oat milks are made with gluten-free rolled or steel cut oats. It’s a great source of Vitamin B12, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, riboflavin, calcium and phosphorous.
Coconut milk: Over the last few years, coconut has risen in prominence in terms of popular plant-based milks. It’s made from the flesh of mature coconuts. And it’s a very good source of healthy fats (such as lauric acid and medium chain triglycerides), vitamins and minerals.
Rice milk: Rice milk is typically made with brown rice and offers a healthy amount of Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D. It’s also a good source of calcium.
Are all plant-based milks vegan friendly?
All plant-based milks that I have come across in the market are vegan-friendly, but it never hurts to check the label to be sure. I would find it hard to believe that there are plant-based milks that are made with animal by-products considering the primary reason plant-based milks are manufactured is for those who maintain a plant-based diet. If you come across a plant-based milk that isn’t vegan-friendly, please let me know!
Is soy milk bad for you?
Some people say that soy milk is bad for you – especially if you’re a male. The fear is that soy milk contains phytoestrogens, which can mimic the estrogen hormone within the body. There have been mixed results in studies that have been conducted on the effects the phytoestrogens in soy milk have on men. So, at this point, I would say there isn’t enough data to be sure one way or the other. Other studies have linked soy milk to an increased risk of breast cancer. But again, more data is needed to make any definitive conclusions at this time. If you’re hesitant to consume soy milk, there are plenty of other alternatives without phytoestrogens on the market today.
Benefits of plant-based milk
While plant-based milks are popular because they’re (obviously) plant-based, there are actually many other benefits associated with plant-based milks, that make them good options for those who aren’t on plant-based diets as well.
Plant-based milks are generally lower in calories and fat than cow’s milk, which makes it a better choose if you’re looking to lose weight. It’s also cholesterol-free and lactose-free which makes it suitable for people who suffer from lactose intolerance or high cholesterol. In addition, it’s a good source of calcium, Vitamin A and Vitamin D.
And lastly, plant-based milks are a great alternative for our plant. It requires less water and land to produce plant-based milk than it does to produce dairy milk.
Plant based milk for babies
Parents may prefer to give their babies plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk, for a couple of reasons. First, plant-based milks are often more easily digested than cow’s milk is, especially for babies. Secondly, plant-based milks are often less allergenic. Plant-based milks also contain the same or similar benefits to cow’s milk, such as calcium and vitamin D, so parents don’t have to worry that their children aren’t receiving adequate nutrition. I would recommend talking to your child’s pediatrician to ensure you’re making the best choice for your child before deciding which type of milk to give them.
Vegan recipes that use plant-based milks:
Baked oatmeal bars recipe: These bars only take 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook… then you have a healthy breakfast or snack for the week!
Buckwheat crepes recipe: This savory breakfast is sure to bring the entire family to the table for breakfast!
Banana oat muffins recipe: A great option to meal plan breakfast of healthy breakfasts for an entire week or a large family.
Banana bread recipe: What’s the best part of banana bread… The deliciousness or the scent that takes over your home when it’s in the oven?
Blueberry french toast recipe: With this recipe, you’ll make restaurant quality french toast in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Blueberry smoothie recipe: It takes less than five minutes to whip up this healthy, nutritious smoothie (that’s great for weight loss)!
Chocolate and peanut butter smoothie recipe: A quick and easy high-protein smoothie that’s perfect anytime your body needs a nutritional boost.
Cinnamon roll pancakes recipe: A breakfast recipe that the entire family will LOVE.
Veggie wraps recipe: These easy to make wraps are the perfect lunch option and can be tailored to your taste buds with ease.
French toast recipe: A perfectly crispy outside with a soft inside toast that’s loaded with your choice of toppings.
Overnight oats recipe: A perfect make-ahead meal for a tasty, delicious, nutrition packed breakfast.
Vanilla chia seeds pudding recipe: Unlock the power of chia seeds with this delicious treat that’s loaded with 20 grams of protein per serving!
