Comparison Of Plant-based Milks
While plant-based milks are beneficial under certain conditions, it is not entirely true that they outweigh the benefits of cow’s milk. For this reason, it is important to make a comparison. Let’s find out together!
Have you compared plant milks and do they really make a positive change compared to the consumption of cow’s milk? Despite the misconceptions surrounding milk consumption, the scientific evidence continually contradicts itself. This means that there is no causal link between the consumption of this drink and the development of any disease.
For this reason, the objective is to mention the properties present in cow’s milk and to make a comparison with vegetable milks in order to know the benefits supported by science and to dispel the myths that are currently being disseminated.
Animal milk, mainly cow’s milk, has been part of the Western diet for many years. Its consumption has been associated with weight growth in childhood, an indicator that tells us about adequate growth and development.
Nutritional Intake and Impact on Growth: Are They Similar?
Currently, many families have chosen to consume plant milks, such as soy and almond milk, due to false beliefs. However, plant-based milks are less rich in protein and fat than cow’s milk, and therefore do not have the same impact on the growth of children. Remember, protein has been shown to be essential for healthy muscles.
In a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2017, for every cup of plant-based milk consumed, children were 0.4 cm shorter than the population who consumed plant-based milk.
Likewise, there was a difference of 1.5 cm between the height of three-year-old preschoolers who consume three cups of plant-based milk per day and the population of cows who drink milk.
Milk and its nutrients are not essential
It is true that there are other foods that are sources of calcium apart from cow’s milk and its derivatives. However, for those of plant origin, the bioavailability and absorption of this mineral is disturbed by substances known as oxalates.
In addition, to meet the recommended intake values, it is necessary to consume large amounts of these foods. In addition, milk contains lactose, vitamin D and peptides (mainly arginine and lysine) which facilitate the intestinal absorption of calcium.
Other myths related to the consumption of animal milk
1. Lactose is harmful to health
About 35% of the population is intolerant to this disaccharide, however, most adults with this disease have been shown to tolerate up to 12g of lactose per day (found in a 250ml glass of milk).
It is also necessary to point out that lactose-free dairy products available on the market only benefit people with lactose intolerance.
2. Milk and its derivatives increase the development of cardiovascular diseases
This statement is related to the contribution of saturated fatty acids. However, these fatty acids (lauric, myric and palmitic) would only have a negative effect if they were consumed in isolation and in excess, a situation which does not occur in the case of milk.
In addition, milk contains stearic acid and oleic acid, which reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, as well as calcium, a cardioprotective mineral. This is according to a study published in the journal Hospital Nutrition.
As you can see, there are some myths that unfairly label milk as bad for your health. However, it is a nutritionally valuable food and can be part of a balanced diet at any time of life, as long as there are no pre-existing conditions that put it off.
Comparison of vegetable milks: use in the treatment of certain diseases
The treatment of chronic noncommunicable diseases and hormonal disorders is multidisciplinary. For a correct nutritional approach, certain nutrients must be restricted or supplemented. This is why many diseases can benefit from replacing the consumption of cow’s milk with plant-based milks:
Rice and oats
As they have a high carbohydrate load and a very low protein intake, they are recommended for patients with kidney disease to prevent hyperfiltration in the kidneys.
Almond
It is recommended for people with allergies to milk proteins and, due to its calcium content (higher than the rest of vegetable milks), it is recommended for women going through menopause.
Soy
For its contribution in isoflavones, plant compounds whose hormonal activity is similar to that of estrogen, this milk contributes to the health of women in menopause.
Coconut
By having a high intake of medium chain fatty acids and a low intake of carbohydrates, coconut milk helps reduce the respiratory load, so it is recommended for people with respiratory disorders (asthma, COPD). In addition, given its caloric and fatty acid intake, people suffering from malnutrition benefit from its consumption.
It is important to consult the nutrition label when purchasing these drinks, as many of them are high in added sugar. Due to their sugar content and high cost, these drinks can be easily prepared at home using simple recipes.
The ongoing debate: can plant-based milks be compared to cow’s milk?
Finally, we must say that cow’s milk is completely different from vegetable milk, so it cannot be substituted without scientific basis or without medical advice.
There are myths surrounding the properties contained in plant milks which have positioned them as superior products to cow’s milk. However, both can be beneficial in certain situations.
By comparing plant milks, you can learn about their properties and application for the treatment of certain conditions or diseases. In addition, knowing the nutritional contribution of cow’s milk and its derivatives, we can say that they can be included in a balanced diet at any time of life.
