5 Healthiest Non-Dairy Milk Brands Recommended By Expert Nutritionist

Ladies, isn't it a constant battle trying to find the best and healthiest options for our families and ourselves? I completely understand the struggle. We're constantly bombarded with choices, especially when it comes to something as fundamental as freaking MILK!

It's a staple in most households, but finding the healthiest option can feel like navigating a minefield.

There's an overwhelming amount of advice out there, and it seems like everyone has an opinion. One minute we're told to go for the full-fat option, the next it's all about the skim. It's enough to make your head spin, right?

What's more, the shelves are packed with so many different brands and types, it's hard to know which one is truly the best for our families. How are we supposed to make an informed decision when we're faced with such a dizzying array of options?

That's exactly why I'm here, ladies. As an expert nutritionist, it's my job to decipher all that conflicting information and provide you with clear, evidence-based advice. And as a mom, I'm right there with you in the trenches, trying to make the best choices for my family.

That's why I've put together this list of my top 5 healthiest milk brands. These are brands that I not only recommend to my clients but also choose for my own family. These brands are all about quality and nutrition, and I absolutely swear by them.

So if you're tired of the confusion and just want to know which milk to put in your shopping cart, keep reading. I'm here to help you make an informed choice so that you can feel confident that you're giving your family the very best.

The Dilemma Between Regular Milk vs. Raw Milk

Firstly, let's delve deeper into the ongoing debate concerning regular milk versus raw milk. The issue at hand is that many people have developed a belief that conventional milk can be detrimental to our health, primarily due to the addition of growth hormones and its inflammatory properties.

The process of pasteurization, used in the production of conventional milk, aims to eliminate harmful bacteria. However, it also neutralizes some of the beneficial properties found in raw milk. This process, along with the addition of growth hormones, has led to increasing concerns about the health implications of consuming conventional milk…understandably so.

On the flip side, raw milk, which is milk that hasn't been pasteurized, retains all of its beneficial properties. These include enzymes and bacteria that are beneficial for our gut health, as well as all the vitamins and minerals naturally present in milk.

Despite these benefits, raw milk has often been labeled as harmful.

This perception primarily stems from fears of foodborne illnesses, which can indeed be a risk with raw milk. However, it's important to note that the percentage of people who fall ill from consuming raw milk is extremely low. A study published in the Journal of Food Protection found that less than 1% of foodborne illnesses were attributed to raw milk or cheese. This suggests that the risk, while present, is relatively minor and often blown out of proportion.

Plus, many proponents of raw milk argue that the potential risks can be further minimized through proper handling and storage practices. This includes ensuring that the milk comes from healthy, grass-fed cows and is properly refrigerated to slow bacterial growth.

It's also worth mentioning that while the debate continues, some countries like England, Wales, and Northern Ireland already allow the sale of raw milk under strict regulation to ensure safety standards are met.

The raw milk debate is much more nuanced than it might initially appear. It's essential to consider all the factors — from nutritional content to health risks — and make an informed decision that suits your personal health needs and beliefs. And as always, when choosing any food product, quality should be a top priority.

Is Goat Milk A Healthy Alternative?

So if you are out on raw milk (because even raw milk can still not be “healthy” for some people, depending on your genetics and cellular health…some people have food sensitivities to dairy), there are other options available. Did you know that goat milk can often serve as an excellent alternative to the more commonly consumed cow's milk?

Many individuals who have trouble digesting cow's milk or experience discomfort and other issues post-consumption, discover that they can comfortably drink goat milk without any adverse reactions.

Goat milk, interestingly enough, has a different protein structure than cow's milk, which can make it easier for some people to digest.

This is especially beneficial for those who struggle with lactose intolerance or sensitivity, as goat milk can provide a viable alternative that allows them to still enjoy the benefits and taste of milk.

However, it's important to remember that everyone's body is unique and responds differently to various types of dairy. For some, goat milk may be a game-changer, while for others, it might not make a noticeable difference in how they feel. It's always crucial to listen to your body and see how it reacts when you introduce new foods or make dietary changes.

In the end, the choice of whether to incorporate goat milk into your diet comes down to personal preference and how your body responds. If you're curious about trying goat milk, I would encourage you to give it a go! It can be a great way to add variety to your diet and may just be the dairy alternative you've been looking for.

The Truth About Non-Dairy Milks

Okay no on to non dairy milks! While non-dairy milk options have gained popularity in recent years, it's important to note that these non dairy milk alternatives aren't always the healthier choice as many people believe. The truth is, many of these non-dairy milks contain ingredients that aren't ideal for our health.

Not the healthiest non-dairy milk brands…

Added Sugars

For instance, a significant number of these plant-based milks have added sugars to enhance their taste. Consuming too much added sugar can lead to various health issues, such as weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of heart disease. This is especially concerning for children, who are still in their crucial stages of growth and development.

Brands with added sugars: Silk Original, Almond Breeze, Califia Farms (non-organic), Ripple Original, Milkadamia Original, Pearl Organic Soymilk.

Inflammatory Oils

Plus, some non-dairy milks contain inflammatory oils. These oils, such as canola or sunflower oil, are often used to improve the texture and creaminess of the milk.

However, when consumed in excess, these oils can lead to inflammation in the body, contributing to a host of health problems including heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Preservatives

Non-dairy milks also often contain preservatives to extend their shelf life. While these preservatives are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have adverse reactions to them. These can range from mild irritations to more severe allergic reactions.

The reality is, the long list of ingredients found in many non-dairy milks can be concerning, especially when we consider that real, whole milk essentially contains just one ingredient – milk.

Is Oak Milk Healthy?

Okay now I want to touch on another issue with some non-dairy milk alternatives. Here’s my beef with oat milk.

Maybe you have noticed how oat milk is popping up everywhere lately? From coffee shops to your local supermarket, it seems like it's the new "it" thing. You might even start thinking it's a healthier option than good ol' cow's milk or other plant-based alternatives. I know I did for a moment. But let's take a moment to chat about this.

Sure, oat milk has its perks, but it's not exactly the magic health potion some folks might think it is.

One thing to keep in mind is its sneaky ability to spike blood sugar levels. Unlike other milk substitutes, oat milk is a bit carb-heavy, which can send your blood sugar on a bit of a rollercoaster ride.

This might not bother everyone, but it's something to think about if you're keeping an eye on diabetes or just trying to keep your blood glucose steady to avoid mid afternoon energy crashes, mood swings, or anxiety.

Plus, with oat milk’s fame skyrocketing, more and more oats are being grown, which means more pesticides are being used. Now, while there are rules to keep things safe, it's a fact that oat crops often get a good dose of pesticide treatment. So, unless you're going for the organic option, your morning cup of joe or bowl of cereal could be coming with a side of more chemicals than you’d prefer.

So, while oat milk might be the latest trend, remember it's always good to dig a little deeper and think about how it might affect your health.

As a nutritionist and a mom, I can't stress enough the importance of understanding what we're putting into our bodies and, more importantly, what we're feeding our children.

It's not to say that all non-dairy milks are bad. There are options out there made with minimal, natural ingredients that I’ll hit on next. But it's crucial to read labels carefully and make informed decisions about the products we choose.

Top 5 Healthiest Non-Dairy Milk Brands

So, what are the healthiest milk brands you should consider? Here are my top recommendations, from a functional nutritionist's perspective:

Three Trees: ThreeTree is a brand committed to producing plant-based milks that are both delicious and nutritious. Their products are unsweetened, made from simple, organic ingredients, and don't contain any additives or preservatives. The simplicity of their ingredients list ensures you're only consuming what's best for your body.

MALK Unsweetened Almond Milk: MALK Organics offers a range of unsweetened, organic plant-based milks. Their Unsweetened Almond Milk is made with six simple ingredients, with no binders, fillers, or thickeners. It's a great source of vitamin E and a good option for those looking for a dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free milk alternative.

Elmhurst Unsweetened Hazelnut Milk: Elmhurst's Hazelnut Milk is made with only two ingredients: filtered water and hazelnuts. It's free from added sugars, gums, and oils. This milk offers a rich, creamy texture and a unique hazelnut flavor, making it a tasty addition to your morning coffee or smoothie.

Mooala Simple Almond Milk: Mooala offers a variety of organic, dairy-free milks including their Simple Almond Milk. It's made from seven simple ingredients and is free from added sugars and carrageenan. It's a great source of calcium and it's also vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.

KikiMilk: KikiMilk is a brand that values sustainability and simplicity. Their milks are ethically sourced, free from GMOs, and made with minimal ingredients. This ensures that when you choose KikiMilk, you're not only making a healthy choice for yourself but also for the environment.

Homemade Nut Milk Is Easy to Make!

Another option to nut milk is to make your own! I used to use the older method of soak nuts, blending them up in my blender then using a nut milk bag/cloth to strain it. what a dang mess LOL!

BUT THEN I FOUND THE ALMOND COW NUT MILK MACHINE!

The Almond Cow Nut Milk Maker is a AMAZING and makes the process of making nut milk at home soooo easy and fun (for moms and kids)!

It's designed to provide a quick, easy, and mess-free way to make fresh, nutrient-dense, and delicious nut milk from the comfort of your kitchen and I swear it really does like like 5 minutes….

You can literally prepare your own homemade nut milk in minutes with minimal effort. Just add your favorite nuts (like almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts), water, and any sweeteners or flavors you prefer, (sometimes I will add cloves and cinnamon and maple syrup or dates to mine) and let the Almond Cow do the rest!

One of the most best benefits of making your own nut milk at home is that you're in complete control of the ingredients. You can choose organic, non-GMO nuts, avoid any additives or preservatives, and control the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of natural sweetener you use.

I buy bulk nuts from the Terrasoul Brand on Amazon and store them in my fridge. You’ll have nuts on hand to make milk anytime you’re in a pinch!

This means you can enjoy a delicious beverage that's free from any unwanted chemicals or sugars - a perfect choice for health-conscious moms like us!

Another huge plus of using the Almond Cow Nut Milk Maker is the environmental benefit. By making your own nut milk at home, you're reducing the amount of packaging waste that comes from buying store-bought versions. It's a small, but impactful way to contribute to the well-being of our planet.

Click this link and get $25 OFF your first order with Almond Cow!

PIN FOR LATER!

Take the Next Step in Your Wellness Journey

Now that you know the healthiest milk brands, you're one step closer to achieving a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your family.

But don't stop there. To make the most of your wellness journey, download my new ebook, "Easy Whole Food Swaps for Healthier Family Meals."

By incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into your daily meals (and swapping out the inflammatory ingredients), you'll be well-equipped to nurture your health and that of your future families.

Remember, your health is your greatest wealth. So take the step today and make the shift towards a healthier lifestyle. Stay tuned for more mom wellness ideas and nutrition tips for women from your favorite natural nutritionist!

Join the Nourished Life Course Today & Take Charge of Your Family Wellness!

You want the best for your family, but between the endless nutrition advice, confusing labels, and picky eaters, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck. You know how important it is to provide your kids with real, nourishing foods, but where do you even begin? Imagine feeling confident in every choice you make—knowing you’re giving your family the tools to grow, thrive, and avoid the health struggles that so many face today.

With the Nourished Life Course, you’ll get step-by-step guidance, expert tips, and practical solutions to create a balanced, healthy lifestyle for your family. No more confusion or guilt around meals—just simple, effective strategies that work for busy moms like you, trying to support family wellness for now and for generations to come. Picture your mornings filled with easy, nutritious breakfasts and your evenings free from battles at the dinner table, knowing you’re setting the foundation for lifelong wellness for your kids.

Ready to make this change for your family? Click here to get on the waitlist or enroll now, and start your journey towards a healthier, happier home!

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