This Is The Healthiest Type Of Milk And No It Is Not Cow Milk

Dairy aisles have exploded with different types of cow's milk and its alternatives. While cow milk still tops the global consumption list, it is not the healthiest. Notably, there is a whole war going on over certain types of milk being healthier than others, there is no single best milk for everyone.

Here Are 7 Types Of Healthiest Milk Options:

1. Hemp milk

Hemp milk is made from ground, soaked hemp seeds, which are high in protein and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. According to a 2018 review, hemp milk may help lower cholesterol levels and thyroid hormones. The authors also note that because hemp milk doesn't contain lactose, it may be a nutritious alternative to cow's milk and several plant-based milks.

Hemp milk is virtually carb-free, but some brands add sweeteners and added sugars. Not only do these increase the carb content, but added sugars are also associated with several chronic conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure (hypertension), among others.

2. Oat milk

Oat milk is made by soaking whole oats. It is one of the most popular and fast-growing cow's milk alternatives in the world. According to a 2023 review, the volume of oat milk sales has increased by 71% from 2017 to 2018, and global annual oat milk sales increased by 700% from 2018 to 2019. Nutritional values can vary by brand and depend on how or whether the milk is fortified. Oat milk is naturally sweet from the oats and high in carbs. It also contains soluble fibre, which makes it creamier.

3. Almond milk

Almond milk is made by soaking almonds in water and then blending and straining away the solids. It's a tasty nondairy milk alternative for people who either can’t tolerate or choose not to drink dairy milk, but it’s not safe if you have a tree nut allergy. Unsweetened almond milk is low in calories and much lower in carbohydrates than cow’s milk, making it a good choice for a lower-carb diet.

That said, it is low in protein and many other nutrients. Many brands are fortified with calcium and vitamins A and D, but the amounts can vary by brand. Some brands also contain additives like carrageenan to thicken and prevent separation.

4. Coconut milk

Coconut milk is squeezed from the white flesh of a coconut. It has a pleasant flavour, and it’s a good nondairy milk alternative that is safe if you have a tree nut allergy. Most coconut milk packaged in cartons is blended with water to give it a consistency similar to that of cow’s milk. It has even less protein than almond milk, but many brands are fortified with nutrients like vitamins B12, D, and A, as well as some minerals.

On the other hand, canned coconut milk is usually intended for culinary purposes. It tends to be higher in fat, is unfortified, and has a much more distinctive coconut flavour. Coconut milk is a bit higher in fat than other plant milk, but the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconuts are linked to some heart health benefits, such as higher HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

5. Cow's milk

Cow’s milk is the most commonly consumed dairy milk and a good source of high-quality protein. It is naturally rich in calcium, B vitamins, and many minerals. It’s also often fortified with vitamins A and D, making it a very nutritious food for both children and adults.

However, the protein in cow’s milk makes it one of the most common food allergens. Most children outgrow it, but some people have a lifelong allergy and need to avoid this beverage and foods containing it. In addition, an estimated 65% of the world’s population has some degree of difficulty digesting lactose, a type of sugar in cow’s milk.

6. A2 Milk

Approximately 30% of the protein in cow’s milk comes from casein. Most dairy cows in the United States produce milk that has two main types of casein — A1 beta-casein and A2 beta-casein. When A1 beta-casein is digested, a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) is produced. It is linked to digestive symptoms similar to those of lactose intolerance in some people, including gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea.

According to a 2023 review, four studies reported that A2 milk may be easier to digest than cow’s milk with A1. That said, the authors note that more research is needed in humans to fully understand the effects of A1 and A2 casein proteins on digestive health.

7. Soy Milk

Nutritionally, soy milk is closest to cow’s milk. This is partly because soybeans are an excellent source of complete protein and soy milk is fortified to closely resemble cow’s milk. Soy milk is a great option if you avoid dairy but want a high-protein milk beverage. Soy has been controversial because most soybeans grown in the United States are genetically modified to resist the herbicide glyphosate.