Soy Milk vs. Almond Milk: Which Is Better?

2014July08_GenPharma_AThe market for dairy-free alternative milks has skyrocketed within just a few years. The presence of food allergies and sensitivities in thousands of people is unfortunate, but has revolutionized the products that are available. Whether you’re intolerant to soy, nuts, or gluten, you can find the best dairy free milk alternative for you.

Shopping at the grocery store can get overwhelming and with so many options, you may wonder where to start. Milks are available that are derived from soy, almonds, coconuts, rice and cashews to name a few. Factors that come into play during the decision-making process vary from taste and price to the greatest nutritional punch for your dollar. While each milk boasts its own nutritional powerhouse as well as other pros and cons, the decision often comes down to popular soy milk and almond milk. We’ve gathered all of the data available on these two milks to make your next grocery store trip as easy as possible.

Soy Milk: Delicious and Nutritious

Pro: It’s delicious, nutritionally strong, and flavorful

First in the ring is seasoned player soy milk. For centuries, people have cultivated the soybean to act as solid food as well as a drinkable liquid. And for good reason – soy milk is packed with plant-based protein. Each 8 ounce serving typically racks up to eight grams of protein. Your cells thrive on a protein source to build amino acids that produce the cells in your organs and maintain your DNA. Many soy milks on the market will come in a variety of flavors. Looking for a plain, sweetened, or chocolate soy milk? You’ll find it.

Con: It’s likely mass produced and could be a derivative of genetically modified crops

With the rising demand of soy products on the market, farmers are replacing mainstay crops with soy to generate profit. Because of this, many crops are sprayed heavily with pesticides to ensure that their income does not perish while growing. Mass farming has degenerated the soil that our food sprouts from and the quality of the crops that are harvested from it. Soy milks are less nutritious than they were, so some companies are adding artificial vitamins and minerals. Additionally, soy crops are likely a genetically modified seed, which many people take caution to avoid for their own health and safety.

Almond Milk: Fresh and Revolutionary

Pro: It’s low calorie, versatile, and allergen-friendly

Almond milk is a relatively new product. The appeal is mostly for a soy-free milk option, due to the rise of soy allergies. Almond milk is extracted from fiber-rich almond nuts, which contributes to the fiber level in almond milk — one gram per serving. Zinc, copper, manganese, and potassium and omega 3 fatty acids are contained in it, healing the heart and contributing to your daily nutrient intake. Almond milk is generally lower in calorie than any other milk option: on average, a serving of almond milk contains only 40 calories. Talk about spending calories wisely!

Con: It’s an allergen and not easily absorbed

While almond milk is a great alternative for those with soy allergies, it is also a nut product. If you are allergic or sensitive to nut products it’s best to steer clear of this milk alternative. Coconut and rice milk may be better options for you. Nutritionists and scientists have discovered that the human body does not absorb calcium and vitamins as easily from plant-based foods. Because of this, using almond milk to supplement a diet low in calcium or vitamin D will not assist you in achieving your recommended intake.

There are pros and cons to both soy and almond milk. When shopping for traditional milk alternatives, it’s smart to try multiple options until you find your favorite. lf you have any questions about what’s right for you, don’t hesitate to speak with your local healthcare experts at [company_short].

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