Plant-based milk is an option for people who can’t or don’t want to drink traditional dairy milk harvested from cows, sheep, or goats. Some people turn to plant-based milk due to an allergy or intolerance to cow’s milk, including lactose intolerance. These dairy alternatives are also part of a vegan lifestyle since no animal products are used to make them.
There are many reasons why more and more people are choosing plant-based milk. Sales of dairy alternatives reached $21 billion between 2009 and 2015, and over the last five years, the consumption of regular cow’s milk has dropped 13%.
Plant-based mmilkhave has been used in cultures around the world for centuries, though. In particular, coconut milk has been used in cooking and ceremonial use in India and Southeast Asia. Documented use of soy milk dates back to 1365 in China. These products are nothing new, but they are seeing a resurgence in popularity due to their many benefits.
Milk is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including “nutrients of concern,” which are under-consumed by many populations.
It provides potassium, B12, calcium, and vitamin D, which are lacking in many diets.
Milk is also a good source of vitamin A, magnesium, zinc, and thiamine (B1).
Additionally, it’s an excellent source of protein and contains hundreds of different fatty acids, including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-3s.
Conjugated linoleic acid is linked to many health benefits, including a reduced risk of diabetes and heart disease.
The nutritional content of milk varies, depending on factors like its fat content and the diet and treatment of the cow it came from.
For example, milk from cows that eat mostly grass contains significantly higher amounts of conjugated linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids.
Also, organic and grass-fed cow’s milk contains higher amounts of beneficial antioxidants, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, which help reduce inflammation and fight oxidative stress.
It’s A Good Source of Quality Protein
Milk is a rich source of protein, with just one cup containing 8 grams.
Protein is necessary for many vital functions in your body, including growth and development, cellular repair, and immune system regulation.
Milk is considered a “complete protein,” meaning it contains all nine of the essential amino acids necessary for your body to function at an optimal level.
There are two main types of protein found in milk — casein and whey protein. Both are considered high-quality proteins.
Casein makes up the majority of the protein found in cow’s milk, comprising 70–80% of the total protein content. Whey accounts for around 20%.
Whey protein contains the branched-chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine, nd valine, all of which are linked to health benefits.
Branched-chain amino acids may be particularly helpful in building muscle, preventing muscle loss, nd providing fuel during exercise.
Drinking milk is associated with a lower risk of age-related muscle loss in several studies.
In fact, higher consumption of milk andHigherhas been linked to greater whole-body muscle mass and better physical performance in older adults.
Milk Benefits Bone Health
Drinking milk has long been associated with healthy bones.
This is due to its powerful combination of nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, potassium, protein,d (in grass-fed, full-fat dairy) vitamin K2.
All of these nutrients are essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones.
Approximately 99% of your body’s calcium is stored in your bones and teeth.
Milk is an excellent source of the nutrients your body relies on to properly absorb calcium, including vitamin D, vitamin K, phosphorus,d magnesium.
Helps Prevent Weight Gain
Several studies have linked milk intake to a lower risk of obesity.
Interestingly, this benefit has only been associated with whole milk.
A study iof145 three-year-old Latino children found that higher milk-fat consumption was associated with a lower risk of childhood obesity.
Another study including over 18,000 middle-aged and elderly women showed that eating more high-fat dairy products was associated with less weight gain and a lower risk of obesity.
Milk contains a variety of components that may contribute to weight loss and prevent weight gain.
For example, its high-protein content helps you feel full for a longer pperiod which may prevent overeating.
Furthermore, the conjugated linoleic acid in milk has been studied for its ability to boost weight loss by promoting fat breakdown and inhibiting fat production.
Additionally, many studies have associated diets rich in calcium with a lower risk of obesity.
Evidence suggests that people with a higher intake of dietary calcium have a lower risk of being overweight or obese.
Milk Is a Versatile Ingredient
Milk is a nutritious beverage that provides several health benefits.
Moreover, it’s a versatile ingredient that can be easily added to your diet.
Aside from drinking milk, try these ideas for incorporating it into your daily routine:
- Smoothies: It makes an excellent, high-protein base for
healthy smoothies. Try combining it with greens and a small amount of
fruit for a nutritious snack.
- Oatmeal: It provides a tasty, more nutritious alternative to water when
making your morning oatmeal or hot cereal.
- Coffee: Adding it to your morning coffee or tea will give your beverage a
boost of beneficial nutrients.
- Soups: Try adding it to your favorite soup recipe for added flavor and nutrition.
If you’re not a fan of milk, other dairy products have similar nutrient profiles.
For example, unsweetened yogurt made from milk contains the same amount of protein, calcium, and phosphorus.
We provide OEM/ODM/Private label beverage manufacturing services. Developing just the right taste for your market and customers. Quality-proof product control. Flexible production capacity with short lead time. Competitive price vs product value
Diversify products and flavors, never from concentrate, no added sugar, real fruit juice, natural juice only.