Which Milk should you choose-Cow vs Non-Dairy ?

Most of us were brought up thinking Milk does a body good, right ? However many are lactose intolerant so this just doesn’t work, while others are allergic to it. Nowadays there are so many options !

Plant based milk is in high demand. I have been trying several almond, coconut, and cashew milks, and they are great substitutes ! This is a perfect option for Vegans as well to avoid dairy products. This market has been insanely saturated with different varieties all competing for your attention.

Below is a list of some common milk types that may help you to decide which ones you want to try :

1. Milk has gotten a bad rap but its still on top of the bunch. Dairy is full of antibiotics, growth hormone ( We seem to be getting bigger and bigger ), and bad fats. It’s true that we are the only ones who consume the milk of another animal to feed and nourish our babies and has become a staple. **Bottom line- Conventional Dairy milk is not good for you as the food groups would have you believe. Organic milk is a little better and Grass fed raw milk is the best way to go.
2. Soy Milk isn’t as popular as it was before since the Nutty milks came along. It is a decent source of protein but it can create deficiencies of Vitamins E, D, B12, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron and zinc. It can block absorption of these necessary minerals. It contains plant estrogens that disrupt normal hormones in your body for men and women. **Bottom line- there are better alternatives out there.
3. Almond Milk is extremely popular of the plant based milks. The problem is that you need a handful of nuts to get the protein, fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Unfortunately you would have to drink 48 ounces of this to get the same nutrition. Lots of calories there ! The amount of almonds you do get is pretty low. Therefore they add water, sugar, vitamins and thickening agents called Carrageenan that can upset stomachs. **Bottom line-Good for a little in cereal or coffee but not so much for nutrition. I purchase the non-sweetened kind.
4. Coconut Milk is not straight from the coconut -it is processed. Coconut milk has a smooth flavor but not exactly like coconut. It is a neutral taste and probably good for those new to the non-dairy milk. Coconut milk has a great deal of medium-chain triglycerides**TIP-( healthy fat that helps burns fat !) Yeah ! It also has potassium, vitamins and calcium. Go for the unsweetened kind. It however is lower in protein and calcium than almond milk. It works well in coffee drinks and cappuccinos as its thicker and creamier. **Bottom line-Lower in protein. Tip- For better taste, mix carton of Almond milk with a can of Coconut milk.
5. Cashew Milk is a creamy alternative and contains fiber, antioxidants, copper( helps produce/ store iron ) magnesium (nerve and muscle function ). They are good for cereal, pudding, and coffee. **Bottom line-Doesn’t have a lot of protein, and avoid the ones with added sugar.
6. Rice Milk came shortly after soy milk but is thin, watery, and sugary. This isn’t a good choice if you’re trying to lose weight or control blood sugar! This doesn’t have much protein as well. **Bottom line-It is an option if you have milk or nut allergies but not much nutrition. It’s thin and watery and loaded with sugar.
7. Hemp Milk does not get you high ! Many mistake this ! It’s produced from the seeds of the hemp plant- the part that doesn’t contain THC. Hemp seeds have complete protein, amino acids, healthy Omega 3 and 6 fats. The seeds are found quite a lot in protein powder. This is a thicker milk and contains more nutrition. It is good for cereal, baking, sauces, and gravies. **Bottom line- It is decent tasting and good for those with nut and dairy allergies. It also is creamy and has healthy fats and proteins.
8. Pea Protein Milk is new ( I’ve never heard of it ) and great for those with nut allergies. It’s wonderful for vegans, and vegetarians and has about the same protein as cow milk. Pea protein uses sunflower oil and has added Omega 3 fat, iron, Vitamin D and calcium. It is a creamy milk but not lots of added sugar. Tip- the original flavor has only 6 grams of sugar and is better tasting than some and less watery than some too. **Bottom line- This one is a great alternative especially for those with allergies to dairy and nuts. It is lower in sugar, higher in protein and nutrients and tastes good too. **THIS ONE I tried just recently and it is my choice !!

Blending them together just might be a terrific recipe to get the best taste and benefits ! I think blending Pea protein milk with all its benefits with almond, coconut, or hemp milk and maybe a touch of Stevia quickly in a blender sounds like the best version of milk to me. Try it sometime !! Hope this has helped you make informed decisions !