Types of Nut Milks
If you’re on a plant-based diet or trying to live a vegan lifestyle, you’ve probably tried to find an alternative to dairy milk. Fortunately, there are more options available to you than ever. Even if you just narrow it down to nut milks, there are so many products to choose from. In fact, all these choices may actually be daunting.
Nut milks have a lot of health benefits to offer. They’re usually low calorie compared to dairy milk. They contain plenty of nutrients, including fiber and various types of vitamins. They are naturally vegan. Nut milks can be used in place of dairy milk even in coffee, cereal, or baking recipes.
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The real challenge is figuring out which kind of milk works best for you. Fortunately, the Organic Restaurants guide to nut milks can help you sort through all of your options.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is one of the most common dairy milk replacements out there and it’s stood the test of time for a reason. It contains plenty of nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D. It’s good for your immune system, skin, and eyes. Almond milk also has a creamy texture that can make it feel more like dairy milk when you put it in cereal or in coffee. If you’re just delving into dairy milk replacements for the first time, this can be a great stepping stone.
Because almond milk has been popular for a while, you’re also likely able to find more varieties of it on store shelves. There are unflavored versions, perfect for vegan baking, and others with added flavors like vanilla that you might prefer for everyday use.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is also packed with nutrients and one of the healthier nut milk options around. Much like almond milk and dairy milk, it offers high doses of calcium and vitamin D. It’s less nutty than the typical nut milk though. So if the taste of other dairy alternatives has put you off, cashew milk might be a viable option.
Macadamia Nut Milk
Macadamia nut milk also offers plenty of calcium and vitamin D, along with high levels of vitamin B12. This nut milk also has more fat than some other types of nut milk, so that’s something to consider in relation to the rest of your diet.
Hazelnut Milk
Hazelnut milk is packed with vitamins B and E. It also offers a good dose of calcium, although slightly less than dairy milk and some of the other nut milks mentioned so far. This nut milk is low in saturated fat and could be ideal for anyone with high cholesterol. It’s also great for baking, just like almond milk.
Walnut Milk
Walnut milk is an interesting choice. It’s high in fat and low in calcium, but it also comes loaded with protein and omega 3s. Omega 3s are great for heart health.
For More Dairy Alternatives and Vegan Ideas
Of course, this is just a sampling of the dairy alternatives out there. If you want to learn more about nut milks or any other vegan options, visit Organic Restaurants and keep an eye on our blog for new food ideas.