For as long as we could remember milk was part of the American diet. We drank milk as children, we put milk in our cereal, and well everything we consumed as a youth had some type of dairy product in it. Whether it was ice cream, grilled cheese, cheeseburgers. You name it dairy was a staple and to some extent still is to this day.
So what has changed in the last decade? The diet culture has shifted and the boom of social media outlets has made it easier to get information out to the masses. Bad or good, word gets out there quick.
A lot of people have switched over to a vegetarian diet or even as far as a full-on vegan. With massive claims stating that eliminating dairy from your diet is a life changer, Why not try it? With all that said. What milk is exactly best for a non-dairy consumer?
Non Dairy Milk – Is it the right choice?
Through many experiences, I am sure most of us have eliminated something out of our diet. I too have eliminated many things to see what was causing my so-called aliment. Dairy was usually the first thing to go. A few years back I primarily only used plant-based milk (which I still use to this day). For me, my skin has always been my problem area not knowing that my gut was behind a majority of the issue. So the first thing I did was limit my dairy intake. Notice I said “limit” If you consume dairy in small amounts it actually is very beneficial to your health. I choose to have dairy in the form of greek yogurt. Greek yogurt has a decent amount of calcium and is great for your gut! Not to mention it’s high in protein.
Now back to what we were discussing, What is the best nondairy milk for you? See the list below to find out!
Your Best Coconut Milk
Coconut milk, how exotic. No, really it is! If you are someone who is used to drinking almond milk this may taste a bit off to you. It tastes like coconuts (obviously). It has a rich, creamy taste and is a delight in coffee and in anything really. If you get an unsweetened version it has a very slight coconut taste and may be too light for your needs.
So Delicious Coconut Milk – Best Low Calorie Option
This is the coconut milk I personally use. I love to mix it with my coffee (decaf of course). It is something I honestly enjoy. This is the unsweetened version (we will get into the full-fat version very soon). With 45 calories per serving it’s a great addition to your coffee regimen. I should warn you this is a bit on the lighter side, so if you like your milk a little thicker this may not be the coconut milk for you.
Thai Kitchen Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Best Full Flavor Option
Now, this is where the magic happens, Depending on my goals at the current time, I switch between full fat and a lighter version of coconut milk. Both are unsweetened (so use sweetener to your liking.) I only use stevia in moderation, it seems to be the only sweetener that does not upset my stomach. Full fat coconut milk has such a rich and creamy taste that it is difficult to say no to this plant-based milk. This is milk is the famous milk in the traditional Thai tea which is one of my favorites!
Califa Farms – Best Blend
Califa Farms is a relatively newer brand and a bit more expensive. (With good reason). If you would like the background story please visit here. The blend is might tasty! Talk bout a refrigerator full of flavor. This toasted coconut/almond blend is packed with 45 calories per serving, another win!
Your Best Oat Milk
Ah, the new trend. This ever so lovely plant-based milk surprisingly tastes a lot like cow’s milk with an oaty after taste. Does that even make sense? Of course, it does, don’t take my word for it. Try it out yourself.
Elmhurst 1925 Unsweetened Oat Milk – Best Low Calorie Option
Elmhurst has done it again. Not only do they have frozen desserts and coffee creamers, they have a low-calorie oat milk option! Free from dairy (obviously), carrageenan, and much more
Oatly Full Fat Oat Milk- Best Full Flavor
100% luxurious flavor, Yeah. It’s true. This is a great option if you are making a transition out of traditional milk. Baristas will be quite surprised when you opt for oat instead of almond. This milk packs a 1-2 punch with DHA (which is known to benefit your brain). Tasty and makes you smarter? I say you’re headed in the right direction.
Mooala – Organic Coconut Oatmilk, Unsweetened – Best Blend
Somehow we are back at coconut. Do you see a pattern? This blend of Oat Milk and coconut is to die for. A great source of calcium and fiber, and low in calories. This organic non-dairy milk will give your coffee a little bit of a kick to start your morning.
Your Best Almond Milk
I know this one is familiar to everyone. Almond milk is the king of non-dairy milk. This has to be the most popular and the most purchased of the bunch. Hard to believe that it has only been popularized for the last decade. So which one fits your needs?
Silk Almond Milk, Unsweetened Vanilla – Best Low-Calorie Option
With many size options as well as their half-gallon you’ll never go a day without your precious almond milk. Verified by the Non-GMO Project’s product verification program. 30 Calories per cup, what? I know I can’t believe it either. Popular as a key ingredient in overnight oats, you’ll be jumping with joy once you taste the bold almond flavor!
Silk Pure Almond Vanilla – Best Full Flavor
When it comes to Almond milk, I like to stick to the classics. I switch between the unsweetened and regular versions pretty frequently, sometimes you need the full flavor. Although 80 calories per serving, most people can get away with the extra 50 calories. Go ahead, treat yourself. I won’t tell anyone.
Blue Diamond Almonds, Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Coconut – Best Blend
Once in a while, you just need a new kick. I do most days. So when I want to keep my calories low but packed with flavor, I turn to Blue diamond. My all-time favorite is the one mixed with honey. Another low-calorie option with only 40 calories per serving, you will be glad you added this into your morning cup of joe or post-workout shake.
Your Best Soy Milk
Silk Unsweetened Organic Soymilk – Best Low Calorie Option
Soy can be tricky with some people, but I do use it occasionally. Soy has a very mild and creamy flavor. If you are looking for sweeter milk then this is the one for you. This milk is versatile, Soy latte, overnight oats, and your favorite smoothie will enjoy this plant-based milk in the mix.
Silk Soymilk, Original
If you can afford the extra 30 calories I say go for it. People enjoy the creamier texture of a full flavor soy milk rather than the traditional almond milk. Customers’ rave reviews also state how much their kids LOVE it! Have kids? Make sure to have soy milk around. If you enjoy it, why not have the whole family enjoy it as well.
Silk Soymilk, Chocolate
Who doesn’t like chocolate? I sure as hell do! When your day needs a little bit of excitement, this will for sure do it! I am such a big fan of chocolate I LOVE to have this as an alternative. The great thing about it is that it is made with real cocoa! Cheers!
In Conclusion
Having non-dairy milk in your arsenal is not a bad idea if you are not a vegetarian and or vegan. The options are endless when it comes to plant-based milk. The great thing is the majority of these products have 50% more calcium than regular milk and save fewer calories! So if you are currently calorie-restricting you can benefit greatly from each one of these products.
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