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We all have grown up with our parents sharing their traditional facts about the importance of drinking milk. How it’s going to make us stronger and taller. However, in today’s time, a lot depends on the quality of milk you buy. With the commercialization of modern dairy industry and adulteration, it has made the consumers very cautious.
I have always loved milk and dairy products and it’s hard for someone who is especially a vegetarian to completely eliminate milk and dairy from your diet. Now, in my late 20s, I have realized milk or dairy products don’t suit me best as it used to. This could be because I have turned lactose intolerant as I am ageing or it could be the quality of milk not good as it used to be.
With the increase in health consciousness and understanding the perils of dairy people have now started shifting from regular dairy milk to milk alternatives.
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Why should people choose milk alternatives?
According to recent reports and research, it’s been found that “More than 70% of the Indians are allergic to milk and dairy products and they aren’t aware of it”. Lactose intolerance (as it’s called) can cause skin problems, acne, bloating, diarrhea and few other mild symptoms which often go unnoticed. There could be other reasons to switch from regular milk to their alternatives such as turning vegan, becoming more health conscious, try something new or it could be just a personal choice.
What are the best milk alternatives?
Almond milk and Soy milk are the top two most popular dairy milk alternatives. They are highly recommended for people with casein allergies, lactose intolerance, diabetes, heart diseases or following a healthy lifestyle. They are excellent sources of all essential minerals and a composition of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which are conducive to cholesterol and blood pressure reduction, protection against cardiovascular, neurological and many other diseases. Each is advantageous in some respects and has shortcomings in others.
Almond Milk
It is the pulp extracted from almonds after blending it with water. It’s light on your stomach and easy to digest. It’s lower in cholesterol. In terms of total calories, almond milk is usually more advantageous for dieters. Unsweetened almond milk contains as low as calorie per cup whereas soy milk has almost double the amount. It does not have as much protein as compared to soy milk, but it’s the best source if you want to experiment with flavours. 1 glass of unsweetened almond milk will give you a quarter of your recommended daily vitamin D, which is important for healthy bones and immune function and half your vitamin E, which is associated with healthy skin.
You should avoid almond milk if you have tree nut allergy. It’s a rare allergy, especially among Indians. Allergic reactions to nuts may lead to congestion of airway, resulting in respiratory difficulties and insufficient oxygenation. Most of the packaged almond milk is usually void of protein. Most of the nutrients get filtered out during processing. Invest in a trusted brand or better off just make it at home.
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Soy Milk
Soy milk is produced by soaking and grinding soybeans, boiling the mixture, and filtering out remaining particulates. Soy milk holds more protein as compared to almond milk. It is associated with a lowered risk of osteoporosis. It’s beneficial for heart health and breast cancer. Soy Milk is beneficial for people over age 50 because it helps to relieve postmenopausal symptoms in women.
Soy allergy is most common especially with children these days- it can instigate swelling, hives, diarrhoea, vomiting and many severe diseases. With soy, there’s whole other debate whether you should be consuming soy products or not? There are many conflicting types of research and studies over the years which suggest, “It messes with your fertility”. Soy milk has been suspected of reducing male fertility and sperm count. They’re believed to be endocrine disrupters because they resemble mammary estrogen and confuse the signals that your natural hormones send. It all can be influenced by an individual’s soy consumption habits and health status.
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What’s better?
It depends on personal preference, taste and dietary requirements. Some don’t like the taste of soy milk and for some almond milk is just like drinking plain water. Switching to any of the two milk alternatives will work wonders for you. Both soy and almond milk are suitable vegan substitutes for people who cannot tolerate dairy. They are both gluten-free and can be used by people with coeliac disease.
It’s important before switching to any of the alternatives you should consult your physicians or doctors, which is good for you and not.
Disclaimer: This post was written by our guest contributor. The content herein is owned by the blogger. Gympik is not responsible for any kind of infringement caused.
