Lactose intolerance is one of the main reasons that some people can't drink milk, as the sugar in it creates havoc in the digestive tract. Other people choose not to drink milk because they are vegan or don't like the taste of milk. Soy milk is a great alternative, but some people also need to avoid soy. Milk offers important vitamins and minerals, so when replacing milk, look for alternatives that contain those same components.
Rice Milk
Rice milk is made from brown rice and is usually not sweetened. One cup of rice milk has 120 calories and 2 grams of fat, making it comparable to low fat milk. In its pure form, it does not contain protein or calcium, but commercial manufacturers fortify rice milk with vitamins and minerals. Some commercial brands are flavored with vanilla, chocolate and almond and contain added sugar.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is made from ground almonds and contains no cholesterol or lactose. It can easily be substituted for cow's milk in recipes, although it will impart the flavor of almonds to the food. According to Noveleats.com, 1 cup of almonds blended with 8 cups of water and then double-strained will make about a half-gallon of unsweetened almond milk. Unsweetened almond milk contains only 40 calories per cup, with 3 grams of fat and 1 gram of protein. Commercial brands are sometimes sweetened, so be sure to check the label.
Hemp Milk
Hemp milk is made from the seeds of the hemp plant and contains no trace of tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical found in marijuana. Hemp milk is very healthy, according to the Globalhealingcenter.com, containing nearly half a day's worth of calcium as well as a dose of both Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp milk has about 130 calories per cup, with .5 grams fat and is sold in chocolate and vanilla flavors and is shelf-stable until opened. Hemp milk is, according to its proponents, an acquired taste.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is made from fragmented hulled oats and water. It sometimes contains soy or other grains, according to Godairyfree.com, so make sure to check the label if you are avoiding soy. It is not always gluten-free. A cup of oat milk has 110 calories, 4 grams of protein and about 1.5 grams of fat.
Member Comments