Got (Oat) Milk? Read This

Oat milk is enjoying a moment, having gained popularity as a healthy plant-based alternative to milk. That said, it may not be the healthy choice we think it is.

One concern is that many store-bought oat milk varieties contain added sugars and seed oils to enhance texture and flavor, which can contribute to inflammation, weight gain, and other metabolic concerns. Some oat milk products also undergo heavy processing, stripping away the natural nutrients found in whole oats.

Oat milk is also high in carbohydrates compared to other milkalternatives. A single cup of oat milk can contain up to 16-24 grams of carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals who are insulin-resistant, diabetic, or trying to manage their carbohydrate intake and lose weight. Unlike cow's milk or nut milks, oatmilk also lacks significant amounts of protein, providing only about 2-3 grams per serving, making it a less filling and nutritionally balanced option.

Next time you’re considering an alternative to cow’s milk, check the ingredients. You’ll notice oat milk contains more fillers, emulsifiers, and oils compared to an organic nut milk, which is usually just water, nuts, and sea salt. The more you know!