Move over soy milk! Oat milk is tastier and bursting with nutrients

With the increasing popularity of plant-based milk alternatives, you must not skip oat milk as it is filled with nutrients and has many benefits.
plant milk
Oats are packed with nutrition. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Shreya Gupta Published: 6 Aug 2020, 12:51 pm IST
  • 79

Plant-based products are very popular nowadays. Out of these, people seem to be extremely impressed by almond and soy milk but oat milk still hasn’t gotten the same attention. As the name suggests, oat milk is made out of oats and is a dairy-free substitute for milk. You must consider trying this at least once given its wonderful taste and the boost of nutrients it can give you.

Also, read: This is the ultimate guide to milk and all its non-dairy alternatives. You’re welcome!

If you are someone who is searching for a vegan alternative to milk, then oat milk is great for you. It is also a blessing for people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to soy and nuts.

To know more about oat milk we talked to Sandhya Pandey, chief clinical nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute Gurgaon. 

Before we jump into the benefits, let’s look at its nutrient value and why it is a great alternative to milk.

Sandhya says, “Fortified oat milk is rich in protein, calcium and phosphorus. It contains soluble fibre which is good for your health.” She listed out all the powerful benefits of oat milk:

1. It is vegan, soy, and nut-free!
People who are vegan, lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts and soy products will find that oat milk is a great alternative for them! Since fortified oat milk takes care of all the essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and phosphorus, it makes for a great boost to your health.

oat milk
For all the allergic peeps out there, oat milk is the answer! GIH Courtesy: GIPHY

2. Lowers bad cholesterol level
Oat milk contains a soluble fibre known as beta-glucan which reduces the absorption of cholesterol. This further helps lower bad cholesterol levels, promoting good heart health.

Also, read: A diet for cholesterol: Apples can reduce LDL in the body and dairy can make it worse

3. Improves gut health
If you’re always constipated, then try oat milk. Since it contains soluble fibre, it draws water into your gut which promotes smooth bowel movement and can sort out your constipation issues.

Select Topics of your interest and let us customize your feed.

PERSONALISE NOW

Also, read: I quit dairy for a month to lose weight. Here’s what happened

4. Provides you with gluten-free goodness
“If oats are grown organically, be assured that they’re gluten-free. Otherwise, there are high chances of contamination. Hence, you should be very careful and check the label thoroughly before making a purchase,” suggests Sandhya.

oat milk
Rejoice! Oat milk is gluten-free. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Here is a quick do-it-yourself recipe for oat milk which you can prepare right at home:

  • Add 1 cup of oats to 4 cups of water
  • Blend for not more than 30 to 40 seconds
  • Strain this mixture through a cloth and you can store this milk in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days

However, keep in mind that oat milk made at home isn’t as high in its nutrient content as the fortified versions available in the market.

Tip: Do not blend for more than 30 to 40 seconds as it can make the mixture slimy in texture which isn’t going to be too appetising, we believe.

Since this vegan alternative is tasty too, it’s probably going to stay here for a while!

  • 79
About the Author

Finding nirvana in good food, Shreya also loves reading books and is a die-hard Potterhead. Confident and motivated she's fun to be with. Plus food. Always. ...Read More

Next Story