Oat milk is a versatile, allergy-friendly dairy alternative.
Getty Images
Many people are turning toplant-based milksas an alternative to dairy milk.
Their reasons vary, with some looking for an allergy-friendly option and others choosing to follow a plant-based diet.
Photo:Getty Images
Oat milk is a crowd favorite because of its cookie-like flavor and rich, creamy texture.
Other plant-based milks can be more watery and so are less satisfying, she says.
What Is Oat Milk?
Oat milk is made by blending oats and water and then straining the mixture to remove any solids.
Other brands avoid fortification in favor of just blended oats and water.
Both practices can significantly change the nutrition profile of the milk.
Nutritionally, oat milk is significantly different from dairy milk.
Oat milk mimics the texture of dairy milk better than most of the dairy-free milk alternatives available.
Oat milk is thicker in consistency when compared to other nondairy milks, says Smolen.
Oatly also makes an unsweetened version with no added sugars and 40 calories per 1-cup serving.
Its a versatile milk alternative thats ideal for use in cooking while also offering some nutritional benefits.
Keep in mind that oat milk varies significantly from dairy milk when it comes to key nutrients like protein.
However, this plant-based milk provides an important option for those with food allergies.
Beta-glucan is a bang out of soluble fibernaturally present in oats.
This makes it a good choice for those looking to cut saturated fat sources from their diets.
These ingredients can result in gastrointestinal upset for some people.
Oat milk is not a safe substitute for infant formula, says Larson.
If you prefer homemade, this simpleoat milk recipeis both creamy and delicious.
To make it, combine oats, water and salt in a blender.
Blend and strain the mixture into a bowl using a fine-mesh strainer.
If you prefer a sweeter version, add a date for natural sweetness.
Vanilla extract and cinnamon can also add extra flavor.
Its creamy consistency makes it ideal for coffee beverages and as a substitute for dairy while cooking.
Like most nondairy milks, some varieties of oat milk are high in added sugar.
Despite these nutritional limitations, oat milk can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Oat milk is low in protein, which should be taken into consideration before switching from cows milk.
Oat milk can be part of a healthy diet, but the limitations on nutrients should be considered.
Oat milk and almond milk are nutritionally similar.
Both are significantly lower in protein than cows milk.
When fortified,oat milk and almond milkcontain similar amounts of vitamin D and calcium.
Yes, you could drink oat milk every day.
The nutritional profile and health benefits vary depending on the jot down of milk.
For others, the healthiest milk alternative is one that doesnt contain major allergens, such as oat milk.
USDA FoodData Central:The Original Oat-Milk.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans.Top 10 Things you oughta Know About theDietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Added Sugars on the Nutrition Facts Label.
