Table of Contents
If you’re a vegan, lactose-intolerant, or dairy-free consumer looking for alternative forms of milk to add to your coffee and cereal in the morning, then you may have considered trying out both oat milk and coconut milk. These two types of plant-based milks are becoming increasingly popular due to their taste, nutritional benefits, and availability. But which is better for you?
In this blog post we’ll be comparing oat milk versus coconut milk side by side – discussing topics ranging from flavor profiles to health benefits – so that you can make an informed decision on which type of non-dairy ‘milk’ is right for you!
What is Oat Milk?
Oat milk is a plant-based alternative to dairy milk, made from steel-cut oats that are blended with water and then strained. It contains high levels of fiber and healthy fats, as well as some protein, vitamins, and minerals. Oat milk is low in calories but still has a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor.
What is Coconut Milk?
Coconut milk is the liquid extracted from mature coconuts. It’s usually canned or packaged in a carton and has a thick, creamy consistency similar to dairy milk. Unlike oat milk, coconut milk can be somewhat higher in calories due to its saturated fat content – but it also offers numerous health benefits due to its high levels of antioxidants.
Comparison
Nutritional Profile
Oat milk is lower in calories than coconut milk and contains less fat, but it also has fewer vitamins and minerals. Coconut milk provides more calcium and iron than oat milk, as well as healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
Taste and Texture
Oat milk has a creamy, slightly sweet taste and a smooth texture. Coconut milk has a stronger coconut flavor with a thicker, more viscous consistency similar to dairy milk.
Price and Availability
Oat milk is widely available and can be found in both conventional grocery stores and health food stores. Coconut milk, however, may not be as easy to find outside of Whole Foods or specialty stores. In terms of price, oat milk tends to be a bit more expensive than coconut milk.
Environmental Impact
Oat milk is a sustainable choice, since it requires fewer resources to produce than dairy milk. Coconut milk, on the other hand, can have a higher environmental impact due to the fact that coconut plantations require a lot of water and fertilizer.
Culinary Uses and Applications
Oat milk can be used in a variety of recipes, from smoothies to baked goods. It can also be substituted for dairy milk in coffee and tea. Coconut milk is mostly used as a base for curries and soups, but it can also be used in desserts, smoothies, and baking.
Benefits of Consuming Oat Milk/Coconut Milk
Oat milk is a good source of fiber and protein, which can help keep you full for longer. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for overall health. Coconut milk, on the other hand, is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, making it a great choice for those looking to improve their heart health.
Which One Is Healthier?
Both oat milk and coconut milk can be beneficial for your health, depending on your dietary needs and preferences. Oat milk is lower in calories and fat but also has fewer vitamins and minerals. Coconut milk is higher in calories but provides more calcium and iron as well as healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Ultimately, the one you choose should depend on your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions | Oat Milk vs Coconut Milk
1. Does oat milk or coconut milk contain more calories?
Coconut milk contains slightly more calories than oat milk per cup around 120 calories compared to 90 calories in one cup of oat milk. However, both milks provide several essential nutrients for relatively few calories when compared with dairy-based milks such as cow’s milk.
2. Does oat milk or coconut milk have more saturated fat?
Oat milk contains no saturated fat, while coconut milk has about 2.5 grams of saturated fat per cup. Coconut milk is a great source of healthy fats; however, individuals should be aware that consuming too much saturated fat may negatively affect their cholesterol levels and other aspects of their health.
3. Is oat milk or coconut milk higher in sugar?
Coconut milk has less sugar than oat milk with only 1 gram per cup compared to 4 grams per cup for oat milk. This difference can be largely attributed to the natural sweetness found in oats which are used when making oat milks.
4. Is oat milk or coconut milk better for heart health?
Both milks are low in saturated fat and contain beneficial nutrients; therefore, they can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet that is low in added sugars and high in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains and lean proteins. Additionally, replacing dairy-based milks with oat or coconut milks can help reduce cholesterol levels associated with the consumption of dairy.
5. Is oat milk or coconut milk better for people with lactose intolerance?
Oat and coconut milks are both naturally lactose-free and thus suitable alternatives for those who are unable to consume dairy due to a lactose intolerance or other food sensitivities.
6. Is oat milk or coconut milk more environmentally friendly?
Both oat and coconut milks have relatively low environmental impact when compared with dairy-based products; however, oat is typically considered the more sustainable option as it requires less water to produce than coconut milk. Additionally, most brands selling plant-based milks are certified organic which can help reduce the amount of toxins that enter our environment through agricultural practices.
7. Is oat milk or coconut milk better for baking?
Oat and coconut milks can both be used in baking recipes, however, oat milk tends to produce a lighter texture due to its higher protein content while coconut milk may result in a denser outcome. It is best to experiment with both options depending on the desired outcome of the recipe.
Conclusion
When deciding between oat milk versus coconut milk for your daily non-dairy needs, consider the nutritional profile of both milks as well as their taste and texture. Oat milk is lower in calories and fat but has fewer vitamins and minerals. Coconut milk is higher in calories but provides more calcium and iron as well as healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Ultimately, the one you choose should depend on your individual needs. No matter which option you go with, both oat milk and coconut milk can be a great addition to your diet.
Read more at Ohsnap Cupcakes!