Oat milk is a popular plant-based alternative to dairy milk. Oatly milk, in particular, has gained a sizeable following due to its creamy texture and delicious taste. But, how does it fare nutritionally? In this article, we will take a closer look at Oatly milk’s nutritional content to help you make an informed decision about whether it’s a healthy choice.
Oatly Milk: A Brief Overview
Oatly milk is made from oats that are soaked in water, blended, and then strained through a cheesecloth to remove the solid bits. The result is a creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty tasting milk that is perfect for lattes, smoothies, and cereals.
Understanding Oatly Milk Nutritional Information
One serving (1 cup or 240 ml) of Oatly milk contains:
– Calories: 120
– Total fat: 5 grams
– Saturated fat: 0.5 grams
– Trans fat: 0 grams
– Cholesterol: 0 grams
– Sodium: 100 milligrams
– Total Carbohydrates: 16 grams
– Fiber: 2 grams
– Sugars: 7 grams
– Protein: 3 grams
– Vitamin D: 15% of the daily value (DV)
– Calcium: 30% of the DV
– Iron: 2% of the DV
– Potassium: 36 milligrams
From the nutritional breakdown above, it’s clear that Oatly milk is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It’s high in calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. It’s also relatively low in calories and fat, making it a suitable choice for those watching their weight.
However, Oatly milk does contain some sugar, albeit naturally occurring from oats. While 7 grams of sugar might not seem like much, it’s worth noting that the American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to no more than six teaspoons (24 grams) per day for women and nine teaspoons (36 grams) for men. Therefore, it’s essential to keep an eye on your total sugar intake throughout the day.
Benefits and Limitations of Oatly Milk
Oatly milk is a suitable option for those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy or soy, or follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. It’s also an excellent source of fiber, which promotes good gut health and keeps you fuller for longer.
However, Oatly milk is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, as oats can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains during processing. It’s also not recommended for infants and toddlers, as they require more fat and protein than what is present in Oatly milk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oatly milk is a tasty and nutritious alternative to dairy milk. It’s low in calories, high in calcium and vitamin D, and a good source of fiber. While it does contain some sugar, it’s still a suitable option for those watching their sugar intake. Overall, Oatly milk is an excellent choice for individuals looking to switch to a plant-based milk alternative.
