In recent years, the popularity of plant-based milk alternatives has surged, with many opting for oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk for their perceived health benefits, environmental considerations, and dietary restrictions.
However, a new wave of research is challenging the assumption that opting for plant-based milk is a healthier choice, particularly when it comes to mental health.
A study conducted by scientists at Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, China, has raised concerns over the potential mental health impacts of consuming plant-based milk alternatives.
The research, which tracked the diets and mental health of over 350,000 British participants for more than a decade, found that individuals who drank plant-based kinds of milk were more likely to be depressed compared to those who consumed semi-skimmed cow’s milk.
The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, reportedly discovered that those who drank semi-skimmed milk were 12 per cent less likely to have depression and 10 per cent less likely to experience anxiety than plant-based milk drinkers.
This is attributed to the presence of ‘good fats’ in semi-skimmed milk, which are thought to increase the production of serotonin—a hormone that influences mood.
These findings challenge the notion that milk alternatives are always the healthier option.
While many plant-based drinks have less saturated fat than cow’s milk and are often marketed as the ‘healthier’ choice, experts suggest considering the full nutritional profile.
For instance, some plant-based milks are fortified with vitamins and minerals to mimic the nutritional content of cow’s milk, but they may still lack certain nutrients or have added sugars.
With this, the researchers suggest that semi-skimmed cow’s milk, which contains a balance of good fats and fewer bad fats than full-fat milk, may be a better alternative as it reportedly offers cerebral protection that could reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.
However, it’s worth noting that the research on the mental health impacts of milk consumption is still emerging, and dietary choices should be made based on individual health needs and preferences.
For those concerned about saturated fat intake, semi-skimmed milk offers a middle ground with lower levels of saturated fat than full-fat milk.
In the UK, there has been a significant shift towards plant-based diets, with many people choosing to forgo cow’s milk for alternatives. This trend is driven by a variety of factors, including ethical, environmental, and health reasons. However, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest research and to consult with healthcare professionals when making significant changes to your diet.As always, we encourage our YourLifeChoices readers to stay informed and to make dietary choices that support their overall well-being.
Have you experienced any changes in your health after switching to or from plant-based milk alternatives? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below, and let’s continue the conversation about finding the balance in our diets that works best for each of us.
Also read: Is granola actually good for you?
