There are many surprising non-dairy sources of calcium such as fortified plant milks, canned fish with bones, and vegetables like kale and broccoli, which can help meet daily calcium needs for those who do not consume dairy products.
Lab-grown cheese is emerging as a potential alternative to traditional dairy cheese, with companies like Better Dairy and others developing products using genetically modified yeast and fermentation techniques. Despite current challenges related to taste, price, and consumer acceptance, these innovations aim to offer healthier, more sustainable cheese options, though market success remains uncertain amid declining vegan cheese sales and consumer concerns about ultra-processed foods.
Registered dietitian Natalie Rizzo identifies cow's milk and soy milk as the healthiest milk options available, citing their high protein content and essential vitamins and minerals. Cow's milk is particularly noted for its calcium and vitamin D, while soy milk is recommended for those who are lactose intolerant. Other milks like pea, almond, and hemp also offer health benefits, but oat milk is criticized for its higher calorie content and lower nutritional value.
Oat milk's popularity soared due to environmental and health concerns, but recent reports and social media posts have raised doubts about its health benefits, including claims of causing blood sugar spikes, bloating, and being protein-deficient. Nutritionists suggest that while oat milk can cause blood sugar spikes, it's not necessarily harmful, and its impact on bloating varies. Oat milk contains less protein than dairy milk, but many brands are fortified with essential nutrients. The choice between dairy and plant-based milks depends on individual preferences, ethical considerations, and intended use, as all milks have varying pros and cons.
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including bone health, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. However, many Americans do not meet the recommended daily intake of calcium. To boost calcium levels, consider incorporating foods such as low-fat yogurt, milk, low-fat cheese, soy, canned fish with bones, cooked leafy greens, chia seeds, and fortified breakfast foods into your diet. These options provide significant amounts of calcium and can be easily incorporated into various meals and snacks. Adequate calcium intake, along with vitamin D and protein, is essential for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Almond-based yogurts have the highest nutrient density among all dairy and plant-based yogurt products, according to a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition. The study found that plant-based yogurts had higher fiber content and less sugar than dairy yogurts, but lower amounts of protein and calcium. Researchers used the Nutrient Rich Foods (NRF) index to score the nutritional value of 1,074 dairy-based yogurts and 150 plant-based yogurts. The study sheds light on the nutritional value of certain dairy and plant-based yogurt types, but other types may vary in nutritional value. Consumers should consider individual nutritional needs when choosing yogurt products.