6 Reasons Plant-Based Milks Outshine Dairy Milk

We’ve all seen the commercials and the ads promoting milk as the most essential building block for healthy bones and healthy growth. “Drink your milk if you want to get strong!” The dairy industry has driven it into our minds that animal milk should be our go to source for calcium. However, increasingly people are moving away from milk and closer to dairy-free alternatives. Many have gone as far as to say that the animal milk we buy from our local grocery stores are inherently bad for you. The dairy alternatives that are becoming more and more popular are typically plant-based milks.

We’re not here to tell you what’s bad for you, instead we’re giving you 6 reasons why you might consider switching to dairy-free milk, and with that information you can decide for yourself!

1. Plant-based milks are free of hormones.

Unless you’re consuming organic cow’s milk, there is no doubt that the dairy milk you are drinking is packed with hormones, antibiotics, steroids and even pesticides. Studies have shown that cow’s milk naturally contains over 50 different hormones, none of which our bodies need. Because plant-based milks are free of hormones, those who consume it in place of dairy milk miss out on all of the potential repercussions of drinking cow’s milk. These repercussions include weight gain, acne and mood swings, to name a few.

2. Plant-based milks often contain fiber.

Because most dairy free milks are made from plants, they often contain some amount of fiber, unlike cow’s milk which contains no fiber at all. The fiber content becomes even more prominent with homemade plant based milks. Some of the milks require straining, such as almonds, however many of them do not, such as cashew milk and hemp milk. Although hemp milk can be strained to remove excess fibers, it is perfectly fine, and even more nutritious to enjoy it unstrained.

3. Legume based milks naturally contain protein and calcium.

Unlike cow’s milk, plant based milks do not contain cholesterol, saturated fats or lactose. Despite this, people still argue that cow’s milk is healthier due to its protein and calcium content. Although not all plant based milks naturally contain these two nutrients and some such as soy have to be fortified, there are some that do. Legume based milks such as almond milk and cashew milk contain some amount naturally occurring protein and calcium, as well as a number of other micronutrients that are missed in cow’s milk.

4. Plant-based milks are typically free of sugar (unless added)

Most plant-based milks are relatively low in added sugars compared to cow’s milk. This also means that plant based milks are overall lower in calories. Cow’s milk contains a naturally occuring sugar called lactose, and many people find themselves intolerant or allergic to this sugar. Which brings us to the next point…

5. Plant-based milks are perfect for people who are allergic/intolerant to dairy.

People who are intolerant or allergic to lactose lack an enzyme called lactase. Lactase is needed to digest lactose, which is found in most dairy products. This means that some people simply cannot digest it and are forced to stay away from foods containing dairy or face suffering the uncomfortable repercussions. Plant-based milk on the other hand, does not contain lactose and is therefore safe for individuals who can’t consume dairy.

6. Plant-based milks are incredibly easy to make.

Not everyone can make their own milk, but just about everyone can make their own plant-based milk! Although some are more tedious to make than others, some are extremely quick and easy requiring only a couple of ingredients and a blender! Plant-based milks are not only easy to make but they are also easy to customize. From unsweetened, to naturally sweetened and flavoured to unflavoured, you can make it just about any way that you want!

Click here to make our homemade hemp milk, aka Miracle Mylk!