Almond Milk, Oat Milk, Hemp Milk, Oh, My! Which Milk is Best for You?

Milk has come a long way and dairy aisles certainly aren’t just for dairy anymore. Mylk (the trendy spelling) is a variety of plant-based milk alternatives, that are gaining popularity with everyone, not just those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

So which one is best? Well, there are a few things to consider when choosing your mylk. If you’re looking to lose weight, you might choose a different product than if you’re hoping to find an option that is high in fiber.

Here are summaries of 5 popular mylks to consider adding to your diet:

1. Almond Milk is a smooth, delicious and popular choice for people who can’t tolerate dairy or who want a dairy-free option. However, if you’re allergic to nuts, it’s obviously not for you. Almond milk is lower in calories and carbs than dairy milk and high in vitamin E. Oftentimes, though, brands add sugar to it, so make sure you check the label if you’re interested in it as a low cal/low carb option.

2. Soy Milk is one of the oldest milk alternatives and is fairly creamy with a mild flavor. It’s lower in calories and carbs than dairy milk and has a high amount of protein making it a popular choice. However, there’s been a lot of controversy around soy consumption, so do your research before you get too attached, as it’s probably fine in small amounts, but not for you if you plan to drink a lot of it.

3. Hemp Milk has a nuttier flavor but is still rich, making it a good alternative. It’s relatively high in protein and has heart and skin health benefits. It also has fewer calories and carbs than cow’s milk but has about the same amount of fat. Unlike the others, hemp milk is relatively easy to make at home, if you’re up for it. If you’re buying it off the shelf, check the label as many brands add sweeteners and thickeners you may not want.

4. Coconut Milk has a few significant health benefits that make it one to try. Coconut milk has medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which have been linked to weight loss. Additionally, coconut milk has been found to increase good cholesterol and boost the immune system. However, coconut milk is high in calories and saturated fat making moderation important when consuming it. 

5. Oat Milk is the newest and probably the trendiest of the cow’s milk alternatives, and for some good reason. Oats are one of the healthiest foods around, with lots of fiber, iron, calcium, and magnesium. However, oat milk contains more calories and carbs and less protein than most of the others so keep that in mind when choosing.

Ready to try mylk? Compare and experiment— you’re sure to find one that meets your dietary needs and tastes great on your morning cereal or in your coffee. Everything you put in your body affects your total health. 

We believe in treating your whole body to increase your overall health. Make an appointment with us today to see how we can help you make good choices—from mylk to so much more.