It’s the fight between the protein giants! Wondering which one is the healthier dairy substitute, almond, soy or coconut milk? Well, you are in luck because we have got all the answers to your milk queries right here. Read on to find out who wins between almond, soy and coconut milk.
1. The Calorie Count
When it comes down to it, calorie-wise, almond milk takes the cake here. Unsweetened almond milk can have as low as 40 calories per cup, unsweetened coconut milk offers about 45 calories per cup while soy milk has almost double that amount. Keep in mind that all three dairy substitutes are full of good-for-fats. So, if you are looking for a low-calorie dairy substitute, unsweetened almond milk or unsweetened coconut milk is your best bet.
2. The Power Of Protein
If protein is what you are after, soy milk is for you. One cup of soy milk contains 7 grams of protein compared to the 4 grams in almond milk. And coconut milk is even lower in protein and calcium generally compared to almond milk. Both almond and soy milk are rich in dietary fiber, about 1-4 grams per serving.
3. Let’s Talk About Vitamins And Minerals
Both almond and soy milk are great sources of B vitamins. A higher intake of these vitamins can help improve your basal metabolic rate and that means you get to burn calories and fats more efficiently. They are also rich in essential minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, copper and manganese. These minerals can help control your blood pressure, improve your blood oxygenation, and protect you against diseases.
Almond milk actually contains higher amounts of vitamin E and manganese and is more powerful when it comes to improving skin quality and protection against cancer. Coconut milk, on the other hand, is loaded with medium-chain triglycerides (an easily-digested healthy fat that helps burn fat), potassium, a host of fortified vitamins, and antioxidants.
4. The Final Word
Almond milk being lower in calories and fat and full of good-for-you vitamins and minerals is our pick. Though, people who are above 50 or the ones looking for a more protein-packed drink shall benefit more from soy milk. Expectant mothers and breast cancer patients should stay off soy milk though. Whichever one you choose, go for the organic, unsweetened, unflavoured version to get all the nutrients without the sugar.
Coconut milk is a decent milk substitute, but it’s low in protein. Although, if you want a better tasting option than just almond milk or coconut milk by themselves, try mixing a carton of almond milk with a can of coconut milk.
Ready to pick your favourite? Go all out on your dairy substitute at Nature’s Basket.
Looking for more answers? Check out Skim Milk Vs Whole Milk.
