Animal Milk vs Plant-Based Milk

Introduction:

For a very long time, milk is widely regarded as an excellent calcium source and essential for bone health. Furthermore, there is substantial evidence supporting the statement above. They are widely recognized as essential dietary staples across the globe. Milk is loaded with various essential nutrients not generally obtained from the body. The selection between animal and plant-based milk in terms of health benefits has sparked significant debate and generated confusion in recent times. Milk is a comfortable way to meet up the daily requirement of calcium. There are lots of milk alternatives available in the market. This article will elaborate on animal milk vs plant-based milk.

What Are the Benefits of Animal Milk?

Animal milk is commonly obtained from cattle, goats, buffaloes, sheep, or camels. However, the most popularly preferred one is cow's milk. They are available in various varieties, such as whole milk, fat-free milk, lactose-free milk, organic milk, low-fat milk, and organic milk. Compared to every milk alternative, cow's whole milk's fat content is high. They are widely and readily available in the markets. A cup of whole milk (244 grams) contains 146 calories, 8 grams of protein, 300 milligrams of calcium, and 12 grams of fat. They are loaded with nine essential amino acids that provide various health benefits.

1. They act as a significant source of calcium which aids in maintaining bone and muscle strength.

2. Since cow's milk is rich in vitamins, scientific research has indicated that regular milk consumption can enhance brain function, improve memory power, and maintain a healthy sleep pattern.

3. These sources provide ample linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids, associated with many health benefits, such as reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular complications.

4. They are one of the versatile ingredients that could be added to various recipes.

What Are the Reasons for People Not Choosing Cow's Milk?

There are a few reasons were people choose not to consume dairy products. A few reasons are mentioned below.

1. Lactose Intolerance: It is a condition of the digestive system in which the affected many individuals experience difficulty digesting lactose, the naturally occurring sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition is different from milk allergy, which occurs when there is an insufficient amount of digestive enzyme called lactase, which is responsible for digesting lactose. Lactose intolerance is estimated to impact around 68 percent of the world's population. Some of these individuals usually prefer lactose-free milk however most of them prefer milk alternatives.

2. Milk Allergies: In this condition, the body's immune system produces an allergic reaction to milk proteins. Individuals are more prone to develop allergic reactions to cow's milk when compared to sheep and buffaloes. Studies have shown two to three percent of newborns have milk allergies, but most tend to outgrow it after six years.

3. Heart Diseases: Children and infants at high risk of developing heart conditions are usually recommended to avoid cow's milk due to their high-fat content and cholesterol, leading to hypercholesterolemia.

4. Environmental Factors: Animal milk requires more land and resources when compared to plant-based milk, and they tend to produce more gas emissions. Studies have shown that producing other milk alternatives is more eco-friendly and sustainable.

5. Dietary Choices: Some choose to avoid animal products in their diets, like a vegan diet.

What Are the Plant-Based Milk Alternatives?

Various plant-based alternatives are present such as:

1. Soy Milk: Soy milk is one of the best alternatives to cow's milk and has a nutritional value similar to cow's milk. They are derived from ground soybeans or soy protein isolate. These products are commonly fortified with vital nutrients like vitamins A, vitamin D, calcium, and riboflavin. According to USDA (United States of Food and Agriculture), A cup of plain soy milk contains the following nutrients:

• Energy: 105 Kcal (kilocalories).

• Carbohydrates: 12 grams (g), including the sugar (8g).

• Protein: 6 g.

• Calcium: 300 milligrams (mg).

• Fat: 3 g.

• Vitamin B12: 2 mcg (micrograms).

The taste of soy milk varies for each brand, but mostly they comprise thickeners and vegetable oil to improve their taste.

2. Nut Milk: Nut milk is derived by soaking the nuts in water and filtering out the solids later. Nut milk is obtained from nuts like cashew, almonds, macadamia, walnuts, and hazelnut. They have a sweet and nutty taste. Their nutritional profile is, however, low when compared to cow's milk.

3. Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is one of the good alternatives to cow's milk. They are made from the white meat of brown coconuts. 240 milliliters of coconut milk comprises about 4 g of fat and no protein and carbohydrates. Their nutritional value is relatively less when compared to cow's whole milk.

Other plant-based milk alternatives:

• Rice milk.

• Oat milk.

• Hemp milk.

• Quinoa milk.

• Flax milk.

• Potato milk.

Is Plant-Based Milk Better Than Cow's Milk?

Studies report that mammalian milk contains the correct amount of nutritional profile to nurture the neonates of different mammalian species. Among animal milks, cow's milk is widely favored and consumed. 100 grams of cow's milk has been shown to provide

1. 4.6 grams of carbohydrates.

2. 64 kcal of energy.

3. 3.6 grams of fat.

4. 3.2 grams of protein.

To meet the nutritional profile of cow's milk, the milk alternatives should be able to meet the requirements mentioned above. Coconut milk has high contents of saturated fat, which can put oneself at risk of cardiovascular diseases. Rice milk is considered to be a poor source of protein and fats. Almond and soymilk contain high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids and mono-unsaturated fatty acids, which are shown to have health benefits in reducing the risk of cardiovascular conditions and cancer. The calories harvested from milk are higher when compared to plant-based milk. Consequently, this is a primary factor contributing to the increasing popularity of plant-based milk options. As well the cholesterol content in the plant-based milk alternatives is less when compared to cow's milk.

Conclusion:

The above-mentioned information gives a brief nutritional difference between plant-based milk and cow's milk. To conclude, it is shown that in circumstances where one chooses to avoid consuming cow's milk, soybean milk is one of the better alternatives to milk. However, other plant-based milk alternatives can be considered. Almond milk contains a better nutritional profile; however, they do not match the calorie content of cow's milk. Milk choice is based on each individual's preference and how they incorporate them into their diet. However, while opting for plant-based milk, it is recommended to choose an unsweetened variety.