A lot of people are lactose intolerant. That means they cannot drink cows’ milk or eat dairy yogurt, cheese and butter, because they have trouble digesting the lactose sugars in cow’s milk. Those with lactose intolerance can experience stomach cramps, bloating, gas, nausea and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.
So it makes sense that you might want to try a plant-based alternative like flax milk. But is it healthier than cows’ milk?
Is flax milk good for you?
Like other plant milk, it’s not a bad choice if you’re trying to avoid dairy or animal proteins such as whey or casein. Although some brands of flax milk contain added sugars and oils, there are unsweetened varieties as well. And unlike some other plant/nut milk, most flax kinds of milk aren’t fortified with calcium
Flax is high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which may make it beneficial for heart health, blood sugar control, and weight loss. Flax milk may also be low in calories, sugar, and fat.
Additionally, flax has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Like other plant-based milk, flax milk is fortified with nutrients to make it more like cow’s milk. It’s also enriched with calcium and vitamin D, which help keep your bones strong.
However, flax seeds are high in phytoestrogen compounds called lignans that may have some negative effects on people with hormone-sensitive cancers.
What is flax milk?
Flax milk is a dairy-free, plant-based milk made from flaxseeds. Flax milk is made by blending flaxseeds with water, then straining the mixture to create a creamy liquid. This plant-based beverage can be added to coffee, cereal or smoothies, or enjoyed straight from a glass. While flax milk has many health benefits, it’s important to note that it does not contain the same nutrients as cow’s milk.
