Is Oat Milk Good For You?

Are We Still Drinking Oat Milk, or Moving On?

Oat milk has been hailed as a health elixir by its enthusiasts, affectionately known as “oat milkers.” But is it truly the wholesome beverage it’s touted to be? Recent revelations have sparked doubts about oat milk’s health benefits, with concerns ranging from glucose spikes to the use of stabilizers and canola oil. So, is oat milk deserving of its newfound scepticism, or is it merely a casualty of the internet’s tendency to vilify its darlings?

Remember when oat milk reigned supreme in the world of plant-based milks? Its creamy texture and natural sweetness made it a crowd favourite, dominating supermarket shelves and winning over coffee shop regulars everywhere. However, a wave of backlash hit oat milk in the latter part of last year, fueled by online rumours. What’s the unfiltered truth about our beloved oat milk?

Here’s the tea on oat milk: despite claims of being free from added sugars, it still contains roughly 3.4 grams of naturally occurring complex carbs per 100ml, equivalent to about a teaspoon of sugar. These carbs can lead to undesirable spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels, causing a slew of health issues. Additionally, oat milk often includes additives like stabilizers (such as dipotassium phosphate) and thickeners like vegetable oil to maintain its smooth consistency – not exactly what health-conscious consumers bargained for.

But before we write off oat milk entirely, let’s consider the facts. Compared to cow’s milk, oat milk generally contains less sugar. And those seemingly ominous additives? They’re not as sinister as they’re made out to be. Dipotassium phosphate, for instance, is harmless for most individuals, while canola oil offers heart-healthy benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, oat milk boasts protein, fibre, and vitamins, making it a nutritious option, especially for those with nut allergies.

In moderation, oat milk can certainly be part of a balanced diet. After all, the age-old adage holds true: everything in moderation. And with many varieties fortified with essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, oat milk offers an extra nutritional boost.

So, are we still raising our glasses to oat milk? Perhaps. But when in doubt, a simple cup of black coffee might just do the trick.