Are you curious about the latest craze in plant-based milk?
Oat milk has been gaining popularity for its sustainability and versatility. Among the many brands available, Planet Oat has caught the attention of many consumers.
But is it good for you?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional benefits and drawbacks of Planet Oat milk. Whether you’re a fan of oat milk or just starting to explore your options, read on to find out if Planet Oat is the right choice for you.
Is Planet Oat Milk Good For You?
Planet Oat milk is a non-dairy milk alternative made from oats and filtered water. It is a popular choice for those who are looking for a plant-based milk that is low in fat and high in nutrients. But is it really good for you?
One of the benefits of Planet Oat milk is that it is fortified with nutrients such as calcium, potassium, riboflavin, and vitamins A, D, and B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and can be difficult to obtain from a plant-based diet alone. Additionally, Planet Oat milk is low in fat and contains only one teaspoon of sugar per serving, making it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake.
Another advantage of Planet Oat milk is that it is certified glyphosate-free. Glyphosate is a herbicide that has been linked to health concerns such as cancer and can be found in some non-organic foods. By choosing a glyphosate-free product like Planet Oat milk, you can reduce your exposure to this potentially harmful chemical.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider when it comes to Planet Oat milk. While it is not organic, it does contain some lesser ingredients that are typical for standard oat milks. Additionally, some of the flavors of Planet Oat milk contain added sugars, which can be a concern for those who are trying to limit their sugar intake.
It’s also important to note that Planet Oat milk contains gellan gum, a natural carbohydrate that helps to stabilize the drink and add thickness. While gellan gum has been deemed safe to consume by the European Food Safety Authority, some people may prefer to avoid it.
Finally, while Planet Oat milk is generally considered safe for most people to consume, those with kidney disease may want to choose a different oat milk as it contains dipotassium phosphate, which can harm kidney health in high amounts.
Nutritional Benefits Of Planet Oat Milk
Planet Oat milk is a good source of nutrients that are essential for maintaining good health. For example, it contains B vitamins such as thiamine and folate, which support the breakdown of carbohydrates for energy and normal function for red blood cells. Additionally, Planet Oat milk is often fortified with B vitamins like riboflavin and vitamin B12. These vitamins are essential for optimal health and linked to numerous benefits such as alleviating stress, combating oxidative damage, and promoting healthy hair, nails, and skin.
While oats themselves have lots of nutritional benefits, very few of those translate over to oat milk since the beverage is largely water. However, oat milk does contain fiber and a little bit of protein, two nutritional positives. One serving of Planet Oat milk contains 2 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein. This makes it a great option for those who are looking for a plant-based milk that can help meet their daily fiber intake.
Potential Drawbacks Of Planet Oat Milk
While Planet Oat milk has many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Firstly, it is not organic and contains some lesser ingredients that are typical for standard oat milks. This may be a concern for those who prioritize organic and whole food options.
Additionally, some of the flavors of Planet Oat milk contain added sugars. While the original version of Planet Oat milk contains only one teaspoon of sugar per serving, some of the flavored versions can contain more. This can be a concern for those who are trying to limit their sugar intake.
Another potential drawback is the use of gellan gum in Planet Oat milk. While this natural carbohydrate is deemed safe to consume by regulatory authorities, some people may prefer to avoid it. Gellan gum is used to stabilize the drink and add thickness.
Finally, those with kidney disease may want to choose a different oat milk as Planet Oat milk contains dipotassium phosphate, which can harm kidney health in high amounts. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about consuming Planet Oat milk.
Comparing Planet Oat Milk To Other Plant-Based Milks
When it comes to plant-based milk options, there are a variety of choices available on the market. Almond, coconut, soy, and hemp milk are just a few examples. So how does Planet Oat milk compare to these other plant-based milks?
Compared to almond milk, Planet Oat milk generally requires less water to produce. Almond milk’s water use is much higher and largely depends on freshwater irrigation, which raises serious sustainability questions about industrial almond production in water-scarce areas. Additionally, almond production can harm bees and transform nature’s fragile ecosystems. On the other hand, oats generally use the least water of all plants turned into milk.
Coconut milk is another popular plant-based milk option. While coconut trees use significantly less water than dairy cows and absorb carbon dioxide, they are grown only in tropical areas, limiting the land area where they thrive. This means that large-scale industrial production of coconut milk can encroach on wildlife habitat when producers expand their operations. Additionally, there are labor issues associated with coconut production in low- and middle-income countries.
Soy milk is often considered the most nutritious of all plant-based milks. It is a good source of protein and contains essential amino acids that are not found in other plant-based milks. However, soy production has been linked to deforestation and habitat destruction in some parts of the world.
Hemp milk is another option that is gaining popularity. It is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. However, it can be more expensive than other plant-based milks.
How To Incorporate Planet Oat Milk Into Your Diet
If you’re interested in incorporating Planet Oat milk into your diet, there are many ways to do so. Here are a few ideas:
1. Use it in your morning coffee or tea: Planet Oat milk has a creamy texture that makes it a great addition to your morning cup of joe. It’s also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.
2. Use it in smoothies: Planet Oat milk can be used as a base for smoothies, adding creaminess and nutrients to your drink. Try blending it with frozen fruit and spinach for a delicious and healthy breakfast.
3. Use it in baking: Planet Oat milk can be used as a substitute for dairy milk in many baking recipes. It’s especially great for making pancakes, waffles, and muffins.
4. Use it in cereal: Pour Planet Oat milk over your favorite cereal for a nutritious and delicious breakfast.
5. Drink it on its own: Planet Oat milk is a tasty and refreshing drink on its own, and can be enjoyed at any time of day.