A dairy shift

Read on to find how plant-based milk alternatives help in building immunity. By Team Viva

Currently, we are witnessing a major shift in the habits, food intake and sedentary lifestyle of Indians. The focus on health and nutrition has become even more important in the current scenario. Adequate nutrition is another important way to help reduce the risk and impact of viral infections, as well as to build a more resilient immune system over the long term. Plant-based milk, popularly known as vegan milk, is no more a luxury but a healthier option for people with lactose intolerance and is being widely adopted by people across the globe. People are increasingly opting for plant-based milk as it contains essential nutrients like proteins and is packed with necessary vitamins and minerals which helps in building a strong immune system.

Listed below are some amazing health benefits of consuming plant-based milk:

• Plant-based milk is low in saturated fatty acids and free of cholesterol. It also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega 3 and omega 6. Consuming it as a part of a balanced diet helps to maintain a healthier lipid profile essential for cardiovascular health and an overall active lifestyle.
• Plant-based milk is not only beneficial in providing the necessary nutritional value but is also lactose-free and aids in easy digestion.
• Soy milk boasts a much higher nutritional value than dairy milk. Soybeans are known to have one of the best amino acid profiles compared to any plant-based sources.
• Soy milk is usually enriched with calcium and vitamin D. It is also fortified with vitamin B-complex essential to derive energy from the food and minerals like magnesium, zinc, iron which when consumed regularly helps in boosting the immune system.
• Soy milk is also a great source of dietary fibre, which is known to promote good gut health, and could be a great substitute for those allergic to nuts and dairy products.

If you are choosing milk substitutes, remember that not all substitutes are equal. Choosing which one is the healthiest could be confusing given the variety but checking the kind of additives it includes can help you pinpoint one which suits your body’s needs.