When it comes to dairy milk alternatives there are plenty of options available. Gone are the days when soy milk was your choice if you didn’t consume cows milk. Nowadays you have milk, cashew milk, coconut milk and the latest addition – Oat milk.
So what’s all the hype, about? Why have many people been curious to give oat milk a go? Let me enlighten you on some aspects of this plant based milk and why it can be an addition, to your diet.
How Oat Milk is Made
To start oat milk is produced by using steel cut oats. Initially the oats are soaked in water. Then blended before being strained. When you consume oat milk you still receive an amount of nutrients and fiber, from the oats so there’s no need to be concerned about missing out on these by not consuming the actual oats. In fact oat milk typically provides nutrients compared to milk.
The Nutritional Profile of Oat Milk
One of the reasons why individuals opt for oat milk as their plant based milk alternative is due, to its content. Although it does contain carbohydrates and calories compared to other unsweetened plant based milks it offers a higher amount of dietary fiber and a bit more protein. Additionally this type of milk provides nutrients such, as vitamin D, vitamin A, calcium, V12, potassium and riboflavin.
It Might Not Be Gluten-Free
It’s important to remember that not all oat milk is guaranteed to be certified gluten. While oats themselves usually don’t contain gluten the oat milk may undergo processing in a facility that also handles gluten containing products, like bread or cereal.
If you have Celiac disease it’s crucial to exercise caution with everything you consume including oat milk. Check the packaging for a certified gluten label. If it doesn’t have one it means the oats themselves may be gluten free but were processed near equipment used for gluten containing foods. If you don’t have a sensitivity to gluten there’s no need, for concern.
It is an Excellent Plant-Based Milk Option
If you’re, in search of a milk alternative derived from plants oat milk could be a choice for you. It has a texture compared to almond milk and is more akin to the consistency of traditional cows milk. In terms of taste it tends to have a bolder flavor, than plant based milks although individual preferences may vary.
