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Q: Is soy milk better for you than cows' milk?
A: Sometimes. It's better for you than full-fat milk.
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Conditions of Use
Not so long ago there was only one type of milk: it came in a glass bottle, it had a shiny metal top and the milkman left it on your doorstep before the sun came up. This milk came from cows and most people drank it.
These days plain old cows' milk is viewed with a certain amount of suspicion and it's often believed to be the cause of health issues ranging from high cholesterol to excess mucus production. Our increasing distrust of cows' milk has conincided with a dramatic increase in the number of dairy alternatives you can buy.
One of the most popular of these is soy milk, which comes from soy beans, and is regarded by many as a far healthier choice. But is this really the case?
'Soy isn't automatically a better choice than dairy in every case,' says accredited practising dietitian Denise Griffiths.
'If you're having full-fat dairy, then soy might be a better alternative, but if you're making good choices with your dairy products then there's no need to switch.'
Complete food
Griffiths says there's nothing in the scientific literature to suggest we all need to replace cows' milk with soy milk. Both are good sources of protein and a range of other essential vitamins and minerals, although cows' milk is naturally a better source of calcium.
'The reason we drink [cows'] milk as humans is because it is one of the most complete foods in our diets and it contains many of the nutrients that we need,' she says.
'The calcium in dairy foods is really easily absorbed by the body, especially in comparison to plant foods that contain calcium, such as broccoli, as the body isn't always able to get the calcium out of these plant foods.'
We need calcium to help us maintain healthy bones and other essential processes in our body, which is why it's recommended that we aim for two to three serves of low-fat dairy every day.
(For more on the importance of calcium, recommended daily intakes for all age groups, and what makes a serve of calcium, check out our feature Boost your bone bank).
Dairy foods contain vitamins A, B12 and D and other essential nutrients. Unfortunately full-fat dairy also contains a lot of saturated fat, which is one reason why some people make the decision to switch to soy. (You want to avoid saturated fat as it increases your cholesterol levels and your risk of heart disease.)
But if you're having reduced-fat cows' milk, and other reduced-fat dairy foods including yoghurt and cheese, then you're getting all the goodies you get from full-fat dairy and a little bit extra calcium (there's more calcium in reduced-fat dairy products).
However, soy is a great alternative if you're lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, or for those with ethical issues around consumption of animal products, as long as it's calcium fortified.
Soy's selling points
But it doesn't have to be all or nothing when it comes to soy versus dairy.
Soy milk and other soy-based products – including tofu, soy cheese and yoghurt – are good sources of iron, fibre (which you don't get in dairy) and other vitamins.
Soy foods also contain antioxidants known as isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens.
Phytoestrogens are compounds found in plant foods – such as legumes, flaxseed and soy-based foods – that may mimic the hormone oestrogen in some circumstances. Some research suggests eating foods that contain phytoestrogens may have health benefits including a reduction in risk of certain hormonal cancers (breast and prostate) and a lessening of certain symptoms of menopause, for example hot flushes.
But one of soy's key selling points is that it's lower in saturated fat than dairy.
'It's a plant-based food .. so it has less saturated fat than animal products, especially dairy products,' Griffiths says.
She says we could all benefit from substituting some serves of dairy for soy products – after all, a varied and balanced diet is likely to be a healthy one.
'It's great to include a wide variety of foods in your diet.. and making sure that in your shopping trolley you have a range of products so that you're covering all your different nutrients,' she says.
Denise Griffiths is an accredited practising dietitian who works at Curtin University in Western Australia. She is also a spokesperson for the Dietitians Association of Australia, which has a corporate partnership with Dairy Australia. She spoke to Claudine Ryan.
Published 10/11/2011
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Nothing’s better than a glass of cold milk, especially when chocolate chip cookies are included in the mix. And while humans have been milking cows since 4000 BC, soy milk was only developed in the past 500 years and has since become an alternative to the traditional stuff. But what’s the better option?
Meet the Competitors
Skim milk and soy milk may look pretty similar, but their content can vary quite a bit. Cow’s milk is a better source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C, while soy milk wins in the vitamin D and iron categories. Calorie content varies between brands, but skim milk generaly has about 20 more calories per cup. And while skim milk has traces of fat (around 0.4 grams), soy milk is naturally fat-free. They do have one thing in common, though— and it’s good news for those skinny jeans— studies suggest the calcium in both milks can help accelerate weight loss Preliminary study: soy milk as effective as skim milk in promoting weight loss. Lukaszuk, J.M., Luebbers, P., Gordon, B.A. School of Family, Consumer, and Nutrition Sciences, northern Illinois University. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 2007 Oct;107(10):1811-4.Calcium and dairy acceleration of weight and fat loss during energy restriction in obese adults. Zemel, M.B., Thompson, W., Milstead, A., et al. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996-1920. Obesity research, 2004 Apr;12(4):582-90..
Cow’s milk and soy milk also pack different punches when it comes to protein. Moo Juice contains both casein and whey protein, both great for building muscle. While whey protein is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, casein is digested more slowly and provides the body with protein for a longer period of time, together providing a mean one-two protein punch Slow and fast dietary proteins differently modulate postprandial protein accretion. Boirie, Y., Dangin, M., Gachon, P., et al. Laboratoire de Nutrition Humaine, Université Clermont Auvergne, Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 1997 Dec 23;94(26):14930-5.. Soy milk, however, contains only soy protein, since it’s made by processing soybeans. Soy protein has been found to reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind) and raise HDL cholesterol (the “good” kind) Effect of soy and milk protein supplementation on serum lipid levels: a randomized controlled trial. Wofford, M.R., Rebholz, C.M., Reynolds, K., et al. Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA. European journal of clinical nutrition, 2011 Sep 28. Doi: 10.1038/ejcn.2011.168.. Trying to build muscle? Beware— one study suggested that milk-based proteins promote greater muscle growth than soy-based proteins when consumed after resistance exercise Consumption of fluid skim milk promotes greater muscle protein accretion after resistance exercise than does consumption of an isonitrogenous and isoenergetic soy-protein beverage. Wilkinson, S.B., Tarnopolsky, M.A., Macdonald, M.J., et al. Exercise Metabolism Research Group, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 2007 Apr;85(4):1031-40..
While both milks contain essential vitamins and minerals and can help with weight-loss and muscle-gain, each has its own set of potential pitfalls. Soy milk contains phytoestrogens (plant-produced estrogens), which act similarly to estrogen and may decrease fertility in men Soy food and isoflavone intake in relation to semen quality parameters among men from an infertility clinic. Chavarro, J.E., Toth, T.L., Sadio, S.M., et al. Human Reproduction, 2008 Nov;23(11):2584-90. Epub 2008 Jul 23.. But good news, guys— there’s no need to say “soy long” to soy milk. Men can consume soy in moderation without worrying about estrogen overload— just don’t consume more than 3 quarts of soy milk per day Effect of soymilk consumption on serum estrogen and androgen concentrations in Japanese men. Nagata, C., Takatsuka, N., Shimizu, H., et al. Department of Public Health, Gifu University School of Medicine, Japan. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. 2001 Mar; 10(3):179-84.. Of course, there’s also concern over hormones in regular milk, specifically bovine growth hormone (rBGH). Although rBGH appears safe, there’s no definitive proof. Still worried? Try organic or hormone-free milk instead of regular, to avoid ingesting the rBGH hormone.
The Decision
So is it time to say bye-bye to the moo-moo, or see-ya-later to the soy? Good news— this battle is a toss up! Both options have their benefits— and their dangers— but are fine when consumed in moderation. For those who are lactose intolerant, soy milk can be a saving grace. But if not, don’t forget that a glass of dairy packs more protein and calcium than the soy stuff. In the end, it all comes down to the tongue— and perhaps which milk ‘stache looks better.
Our grandparents had it easy: The milkman came, dropped off a few quarts, and all was good. Office 365. Then, things started to get complicated. First, it was skim, then 1% and 2%. Then cows started getting crowded off the shelves by almonds and soybeans, of all things, bringing milk substitute jugs to light.
Why the move? Whether it’s because you’re vegan, sensitive to dairy, trying to lose weight, or jumping on the trend, more and more Americans are shying away from dairy products and embracing plant-based alternatives. But with so many options, it’s no wonder so many of us are roaming the dairy aisle in udder confusion. Here, the Eat This!-approved guide to milk and milk alternatives.
Cow’s Milk
Pros
Milk proteins are some of the best sources of amino acids out there. The two proteins in milk, whey, and casein, have the ability to preserve lean muscle mass and improve metabolic health during weight loss, according to research published in the journal Nutrition & Metabolism. And if you go for Grass-fed, you’ll be getting higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids (good) and 2 to 5 times more CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) than their corn and grain fed counterparts. CLA contains a group of chemicals which provides a wide variety of health benefits, including immune and inflammatory system support, improved bone mass, improved blood sugar regulation, reduced body fat, reduced risk of heart attack, and maintenance of lean body mass.
Cons
Like humans, when cows have weakened immune systems (because they’re fed corn and soy that they weren’t meant to eat), they get sick. When they get sick, they take antibiotics, and those antibiotics are then passed on to their milk. The milk we drink. On top of that, dairy is a source of inflammation-inducing saturated fats. Although studies have linked full-fat dairy drinkers with lower weights and lower risks of obesity, studies have also connected these saturated fats to disrupting our gut microbiome, actually decreasing levels of our good gut bacteria. So if you’re going to drink milk, it’s probably best to drink some with fat, but not too much fat. And lastly, dairy is a common allergen. Many people have difficulty digesting milk, whether it’s because of lactose intolerance or sensitivity to its casein proteins, which can also cause acne.
Eat This! Tip:
Organically raised cows are not subject to the same hormones and antibiotics that conventional cows are; no antibiotics for them means no antibiotics for you. And if you may be a little lactose intolerant, but want to continue drinking animal milk, give goat milk a try. “Though cow’s milk and goat’s milk have similar nutritional profiles, the latter contains less lactose than the cow variety, so it’s easier for those with lactose intolerance to stomach,” explains Isabel Smith, registered dietitian and founder of Isabel Smith Nutrition. “For some people, this may help reduce the most common side effects of cow’s milk, including gas, bloating, and congestion,” she explains. “Plus, the protein that comes from goat’s milk is easier for our bodies to use than plant protein, so it may aid muscle repair and regrowth post-exercise better than dairy-free milk alternatives.”
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Grass-fed is the best option, but if you can’t find it at your local grocery store, don’t fret. Any plain ol’ organic brand will do. Organic Valley’s herds are 100% grass-fed and thus have higher levels of omega-3s and CLA in their milk. And always remember to choose milk with at least 1% fat. While skim milk may be lowest in calories, many vitamins are fat-soluble, which means you won’t get all the benefits of the alphabetical nutrients listed on your cereal box unless you opt for at least 1%.
Drink This
Organic Valley Organic Grass-Fed 2% Milk
Organic Valley Organic Grass-Fed 2% Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 130 calories, 5 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 120 mg sodium, 12 g carbs (0 g fiber, 11 g sugar), 8 g protein, 20% DV calcium, 15% DV vitamin D
Or This
Kirkland Brand Organic 1% Milk
Kirkland Brand Organic 1% Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 120 calories, 5 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 125 mg sodium, 12 g carbs (0 g fiber, 12 g sugar), 8 g protein, 25% DV calcium, 25% DV vitamin D
Not That!
Conventionally produced nonfat milk, brands vary by region
Conventionally produced nonfat milk, brands vary by region
90 calories, 0 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 130 mg sodium, 13 g carbs (0 g fiber, 12 g sugar), 8 g protein
Almond Milk
Pros
Almond milk may be all the rage these days, but it’s nothing new. In fact, almond milk has been around since the Middle Ages. A mixture of ground almond and water (so simple, you can make it at home!), almond milk is naturally low in calories. Almonds are high in vitamin E, manganese, selenium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, fiber, phosphorous and boast the highest levels of calcium out of all the nuts. That’s quite the resumé! While other forms of milk need to be fortified with vitamins (including cow’s milk), almond milk is naturally chock full of nutrients. It is, however, also supplemented with calcium, but in doing so, it serves up more of the bone-building mineral than cow’s milk per serving!
Cons
The downsides are that almond milk is significantly lacking when it comes to the muscle-building macronutrient, protein, averaging a mere gram per serving compared to around 8 grams for dairy milk.
Eat This! Tip:
One reason to choose almond milk over cow’s milk is to improve digestion, especially in those with lactose intolerance. But you might be undermining your goals if you choose a brand that uses carrageenan as a thickening and emulsifying agent to keep the almond protein properly dispersed in the water. Carrageenan is an additive derived from seaweed that has been linked to ulcers, inflammation, and other gastrointestinal problems. Look for brands with no emulsifiers or those which use sunflower lecithin and gums instead.
Elmhurst Milked Almonds is made with just almonds and water. Major bonus: Elmhurst uses 4 times more almonds than other almond milk brands, which drives up this cup’s protein content to an impressive 5 grams.
Drink This
Elmhurst Unsweetened Milked Almonds
Elmhurst Unsweetened Milked Almonds
per 8 fl. oz: 130 calories, 11g fat (1 g saturated fat), 5 mg sodium, 3 g carbs (0 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 5 g protein
Not That!
Pacific Organic Unsweetened Original Almond Beverage
Pacific Organic Unsweetened Original Almond Beverage
per 8 fl. oz: 40 calories, 3 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 180 mg sodium, 2 g carbs (1 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 1 g protein, 10% DV vitamin D
Soy Milk
Pros
Researchers could go to war over the pluses and minuses of soy, and basically, the jury is still out—but we do have the low-down on what happens to your body when you eat soy. (And no, you won’t get man boobs.) As of now, what we do know is that soy milk is the least processed of all dairy-alternative milks, highest in protein, low in saturated fat, and widely available to consumers.
Cons
![Milk Milk](/uploads/1/2/3/7/123759869/174470400.jpg)
On the other hand, soybeans contain high levels of phytic acid, an antinutrient compound which inhibits your body’s absorption of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc and may cause digestive problems. Fortunately, these effects only occur in the meal during which you’re drinking the soy milk, and the phytates won’t disrupt absorption indefinitely. But if you’re drinking soy milk every day, the effects may be more pronounced. You may have heard sprouting grains and beans decreases levels of phytates, but this method doesn’t work with soy. The only way to decrease phytate levels is through a combination of sprouting and fermenting, like in foods such as miso, tempeh, soy sauce, and natto.
Eat This! Tip:
When choosing soy milk, stick with organic, non-GMO brands to avoid unnecessary pesticide consumption. An astounding 94 percent of soybeans are genetically engineered in the U.S. And according to a study published in Food Chemistry, genetically engineered soybeans accumulate and absorb high levels of glyphosate—an ingredient that’s a probable human carcinogen, according to a study in BMJ—upon being sprayed by pesticides during their growing season. The same study also found GMO soybeans have poorer nutritional profiles compared to organic soybeans. And beware flavored varieties, which can be packed with unnecessary sugars.
While both brands are organic and non-GMO, Soy Dream uses carrageenan as their emulsifier and thickening agent, whereas Silk uses gellan gum. Not to mention, Soy Dream adds cane sugar to their milk and doesn’t come in an unsweetened version.
Drink This
Silk Organic, Non-GMO, Unsweetened Soy Milk
Silk Organic, Non-GMO, Unsweetened Soy Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 80 calories, 4 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 75 mg sodium, 3 g carbs (2 g fiber, 1 g sugar), 7 g protein, 20% DV calcium, 15% DV vitamin D, 120% DV vitamin B12
Not That!
Soy Dream Enriched Original Organic Soy Milk
Soy Dream Enriched Original Organic Soy Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 100 calories, 4 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 135 mg sodium, 8 g carbs (2 g fiber, 6 g sugar), 7 g protein, 30% DV calcium, 25% DV vitamin D, 50% DV vitamin B12
Cashew Milk
Pros
Move over almond milk, a new nutty milk substitute has hit supermarket shelves. Made by blending water-soaked cashews with H2O, this subtly-flavored beverage is a good source of fiber, antioxidants, copper (which helps produce and store iron) and magnesium (a mineral needed for proper nerve and muscle function). It can be added to everything from cereals to homemade puddings, but if you typically use milk alternatives or creamers to add a flavor to your coffee, cashew milk may be worth a try—especially for those who are wary of soy or have a gluten sensitivity.
Cons
Like almond milk, cashew milk is fairly low in protein, so you’ll have to pair it with protein-rich breakfasts like a veggie omelet.
Drink This
Silk Unsweetened Cashew Milk
Silk Unsweetened Cashew Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 25 calories, 2 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 160 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), <1 g protein, 45% DV calcium, 25% DV vitamin D
Not That!
So Delicious Unsweetened Cashew Milk Beverage
So Delicious Unsweetened Cashew Milk Beverage
per 8 fl. oz: 35 calories, 3.5 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 85 mg sodium, 1 g carb (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 0 g protein, 10% DV calcium, 35% DV vitamin D, 60% DV vitamin B12
Eat This! Tip:
If you typically get your calcium fix from milk, be sure to pick a variety that is a good source of the mineral. Silk’s bottle has 45% of your DV of calcium compared to So Delicious’ 10%. So Delicious adds canola oil to the mix—even if it is non-GMO, why would you want to drink canola oil? Plus, it contains phosphates, which have been linked to kidney disease, according to a study in Diabetes Spectrum.
Hemp Milk
Pros
This nutty tasting, creamy milk substitute is made from water and cannabis seeds. Yes, this is the same type of plant used to make marijuana, but the beverage lacks the psychoactive component of the drug so it won’t get you high (sorry!). Hemp is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and naturally carries 10 essential amino acids, making it a good vegan source of protein. Many brands are also fortified with a variety of other good-for-you nutrients like riboflavin and vitamins D2 and B12. If soy milk upsets your stomach, that’s the other reason this milk may be worth trying. Unlike soy, hemp doesn’t contain oligosaccharides, complex sugars that can cause gas and flatulence. The natural, unobtrusive flavor makes it a good allergen-free option for homemade baked goods and side dishes like mashed potatoes.
Cons
The only downside? It won’t necessarily help keep your bones strong. If you depend on milk to get your daily calcium fix, hemp isn’t the best pick. Although amounts of the nutrient vary by brand, some varieties only serve up ten percent your daily need. Also worth mentioning is the cost. It’s a bit pricier than other milks on supermarket shelves.
Both options contain phosphates, but we chose Living Harvest Tempt as our top pick because it has less phosphates than its competitor and also contains vitamin B12. This vitamin is added to nut milks because they’re typically used by vegans, who won’t get the vitamin essential to blood and nerve health as it’s only found in animal sources.
Drink This
Living Harvest Tempt Hempmilk Unsweetened Original
Living Harvest Tempt Hempmilk Unsweetened Original
per 8 fl. oz: 80 calories, 8 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 125 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 2 g protein, 30% DV calcium, 25% DV vitamin D, 25% DV vitamin B12
Not That!
Pacific Foods Unsweetened Hemp Original
Pacific Foods Unsweetened Hemp Original
per 8 fl. oz: 60 calories, 4.5 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 110 mg sodium, 0 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 3 g protein, 20% DV calcium, 10% DV vitamin D
Coconut Milk
Pros
If you’re a fan of whole milk or cream, you’ll love this naturally sweet milk’s texture. The beverage is made from fresh grated coconut meat, which helps give it a natural, creamy thickness. Coconut milk is loaded with medium-chain triglycerides (a type of easily-digested healthy fat that helps fry flab), potassium, and a host of fortified vitamins (some brands have 50 percent of the day’s B12!), making it a healthy way to add a tropical twist to coffees, teas, oatmeal, cereal and homemade smoothies. (Remember, we’re talking about the variety sold in a carton, not a can, which is extremely calorie-dense and should only be used for cooking.)
RELATED: This 7-day smoothie diet will help you shed those last few pounds.
Cons
But be warned, this isn’t the best milk to gulp by the glass. While the fats in this beverage are the healthy type, they should still be consumed in moderation. Just one cup serves up 20 percent of the day’s saturated fat, so be sure to look for varieties that are unsweetened to keep calories as low as possible and the overall nutritional profile sound.
While it may look like the “This” and “That” are pretty similar (they also both eschew using carrageenan), we like Silk’s milk because it contains more calcium—a key component of the beverage—and fewer phosphates.
Drink This
Silk Unsweetened Coconut Milk
Silk Unsweetened Coconut Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 40 calories, 4 g fat (3 g saturated fat), 45 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 0 g protein, 35% DV calcium, 10% DV vitamin D, 35% DV vitamin B12
Not That!
So Delicious Unsweetened Coconut Milk Beverage
So Delicious Unsweetened Coconut Milk Beverage
per 8 fl. oz: 45 calories, 4.5 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 25 mg sodium, 1 g carbs (0 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 0 g protein, 10% DV calcium, 30% DV vitamin D, 50% DV vitamin B12
Rice Milk
Pros
It about ends at “It’s lactose-free.” Oh, and rice milk is good to use in baking because it holds up well under heat.
Cons
But as far as dairy-free milks go, rice milk comes in last in regard to nutritional value. Made from boiled rice, brown rice syrup, and brown rice starch, rice milk is higher in sugar than its legume and nut-based counterparts, and lower in protein. Add to that the fact that arsenic levels in rice and rice-based products have been on the rise, and you’re looking at a food that is almost entirely a NOT THAT!
Eat This! Tip
Dairy Milk Vs Soy Milk Powder
![Soy Soy](https://silk.com/sites/default/files/products/full/Orig_soy_lg.png)
Use rice milk sparingly, and when you do, look for lower sugar varieties.
While we’re not happy that both (if not all brands in the market) use inflammatory carrageenan and inflammatory vegetable oils in their rice milks, you’re better off going with the easy-to-digest rice beverage from Rice Dream if you really want some rice milk. It’s made with organic sprouted brown rice, which helps digest the starches in the grain, making it easier on your tummy.
Drink This
Organic Sprouted Rice Dream Unsweetened, Original Enriched
Organic Sprouted Rice Dream Unsweetened, Original Enriched
per 8 fl. oz: 70 calories, 2.5 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 110 mg sodium, 11 g carbs (0 g fiber, <1 g sugar), 0 g protein, 25% DV calcium, 25% DV vitamin D, 25% DV vitamin B12
Not That!
Pacific Rice Original
Pacific Rice Original
per 8 fl. oz: 130 calories, 2 g fat (0 g saturated fat), 60 mg sodium, 27 g carbs (0 g fiber, 14 g sugar), 1 g protein, 30% calcium, 25% vitamin D
Dairy Milk Vs Soy Milk
Pea Milk
Pros
Ripple Foods’ powerful new pea protein-based milk is taking over the health food scene in a big way. And when we say powerful, we’re not kidding; a one-cup serving delivers the same amount of protein as cow’s milk. Ripple also is low in saturated fat and has 50 percent more calcium than the popular almond milk. The very best part, though, is that it actually tastes like creamy, silky milk!
Cons
As for the negatives, there are none besides Ripple’s use of sunflower oil in their recipe. It might give the milk a creamy texture, but sunflower oil is high in omega-6s, which become inflammatory if consumes in high amounts. Luckily, Ripple also adds anti-inflammatory omega-3s to counteract these fatty acids, so the damage isn’t too high.
It touts 40 percent less sugar than flavored milks on the bottle, but flavored is the key word. The vanilla pea milk has 15 grams of added sugars, compared to about 12 grams of sugar in traditional milk—and those don’t count as “added” because they’re naturally-occurring lactose sugars found in the milk. If you do like it sweet, the “Original” flavor isn’t as bad, coming in at a mere 6 grams of sugar.
Drink This
Ripple Original Unsweetened Pea Milk
Ripple Original Unsweetened Pea Milk
per 8 fl. oz: 70 calories, 4.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 130 mg sodium, 0 g carbs (0 g fiber, 0 g sugar), 8 g protein, 45% DV calcium, 30% DV vitamin D, 32 mg DHA Omega 3’s
Not That!
Ripple Vanilla Pea Milk, 8 fl oz
Ripple Vanilla Pea Milk, 8 fl oz
per 8 fl. oz: 130 calories, 4.5 g fat (0.5 g saturated fat), 130 mg sodium, 15 g carbs (0 g fiber, 15 g sugar), 8 g protein, 45% DV calcium, 30% DV vitamin D, 32 mg DHA Omega 3’s
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