In the recent past, there has been an increase in the consumption of plant-based milk. Oat, almond, soy, rice, cashew, etc. milk. became a popular alternative to cow’s milk. They are considered a healthier option, low in saturated fat and rich in nutrients. This trend has been reflected in the market value, as the global market size was $3.32 billion in 2023, and is projected to grow by 10.32% by 2033.
Even in India, a survey published in February 2024 found that more than 74% of Indians have consumed alternative milk options at least once. So it was a surprise to many when the podcast dropped in a recent episode love you, byeits hosts Mackie McMains and Kena Booknight expressed their shock that oat milk is “out” and “bad for you.”
A recent study by the University of Copenhagen, led by lead author Professor Mariana Nissen Lund, found that plant-based milk lacks proteins and essential amino acids compared to cow’s milk. Although it is good for the environment as it has a smaller carbon footprint, it lacks nutrients. “We definitely need to eat more plant-based foods. But if you’re looking for proper nutrition and think plant-based drinks can replace cow’s milk, you’re wrong,” Lund said.
We speak to the experts to find out what’s next:
Kalyani Mankar, a clinical and sports nutritionist in Mumbai, admits that there are many options and information available to people every day.” Ask her if eating regularly is healthy and she says, “There is no right answer. Everyone’s lifestyle is different. , food requirements and health status Listen to your body Those who are lactose intolerant can benefit from drinking oat milk when mixed with source of protein and nuts, it’s a good post-workout meal.”
Speaking on the Marie Talks podcast, French content creator and biochemist Jessie Inhauspe (@glucosegoddess) called oat milk “starchy juice.” She said: “Oat milk is made from oats. Oats are grains, and grains are starches. So when you drink oat milk, you are consuming starchy juice. You drink juice with a lot of glucose, which causes a glucose spike (next).
Rutu Dadapkar, clinical nutritionist and HOD, PD Hinduja Hospital and MRC, Khar would probably agree but breaks it down: “Oats contain 60% starch, 14% protein, 7% lipids and 4% beta-glucan. It is rich in protein, lipids and dietary fiber. Starch can help improve your gut microbiome, but it also makes oats sticky and starchy. Oat milk does not contain allergens, cholesterol and trans fats. It is low in unsaturated fat and can lower blood cholesterol. Choose milk options fortified with vitamin D and vitamin B12. Be sure to look for unsweetened milk so that it is good for diabetics.”
