Spelt Milk vs Oat Milk

When it comes to milk alternatives, there are plenty of options to choose from. Among the most popular are spelt milk and oat milk. But which one is better for you, the environment, and your wallet? In this article, we��ll go through everything you need to know about spelt milk and oat milk, from their nutritional value and health benefits to their taste, cost, and environmental impact.

What is Spelt Milk?

Spelt milk is a dairy-free, plant-based milk alternative made from spelt grain. Spelt is an ancient grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years, and is closely related to wheat, but with a nuttier and slightly sweeter flavor. Spelt milk is typically made by soaking spelt grains in water, blending them with fresh water, and then straining the mixture to remove any solids.

Spelt milk is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, as it is completely free from lactose and casein. It is also a good source of nutrients, including protein, fiber, and vitamins B2 and B12. Spelt milk can be used in a variety of ways, such as in coffee, smoothies, or baking recipes.

One thing to keep in mind when using spelt milk is that it has a slightly thinner consistency than cow's milk, so it may not work as well in recipes that require a thicker milk, such as custards or puddings. However, it can be easily thickened by adding a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder.

What is Oat Milk?

Oat milk is another popular dairy-free milk alternative, made from oats. Oats are a cereal grain that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Oat milk is made by soaking oats in water, blending them with fresh water, and then straining the mixture to remove any solids.

Oat milk has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet taste. It is also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. Additionally, oat milk is a more sustainable option compared to dairy milk, as it requires less water and land to produce.

One of the benefits of oat milk is that it is naturally low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight. It also contains beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

Nutritional Comparison between Spelt Milk and Oat Milk

In terms of nutrition, both spelt milk and oat milk offer a range of health benefits. Spelt milk is lower in calories and sugar than oat milk, but higher in protein, fiber, and micronutrients such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. On the other hand, oat milk is higher in carbohydrates and vitamin B12 than spelt milk.

Daily consumption of spelt milk provides energy, protein, fiber, vitamins (A, K, C, E, B-family), minerals (manganese, phosphorus, and zinc), antioxidants, and polyphenolic compounds which provides health benefits like heart, weight loss, blood sugar regulation, skin care, digestive system, and boosts immunity. One cup of spelt milk contains 104 calories, 8 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams protein, 8% vitamin A, 1% vitamin C, and 18% calcium. It is also free from gluten, cholesterol, and lactose

Oat milk, on the other hand, is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. One cup of oat milk has 130 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 24 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, and 4 grams of protein. It is also high in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and calcium.

Another benefit of spelt milk is that it contains a high amount of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps to regulate mood and improve sleep quality. Additionally, spelt milk is a good source of phosphorus, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.

On the other hand, oat milk is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It is also a good source of beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Furthermore, oat milk is a sustainable choice, as it requires less water and land to produce than dairy milk.

Health Benefits of Spelt Milk

Spelt milk offers a range of health benefits. Like oat milk, it is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and micronutrients such as iron and magnesium, which are essential for bone health, blood sugar regulation, and energy metabolism. Additionally, spelt milk is gluten-free, making it safe for people with celiac or gluten intolerance.

Another benefit of spelt milk is that it contains a high amount of antioxidants, which help to protect the body against free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Spelt milk is also rich in vitamins B2 and B12, which are important for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and nervous system.

Furthermore, spelt milk is a great alternative to dairy milk for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste, making it a delicious addition to smoothies, coffee, or cereal. Overall, spelt milk is a nutritious and versatile plant-based milk that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to dairy milk.

Health Benefits of Oat Milk

Oat milk is also packed with health benefits. It is high in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness, making it an ideal choice for weight loss. Additionally, oat milk is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Furthermore, oat milk is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, teeth, and a healthy immune system. Oat milk is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy alternative to dairy milk.

Environmental Impact: Which is Better for the Planet?

When it comes to the environment, both spelt milk and oat milk have a relatively low impact. Spelt is a sustainable crop that requires less water and fertilizer than some other grains, making it a good choice for eco-conscious consumers. Oats, meanwhile, are grown in abundance and can be easily grown in most countries. However, both spelt and oats are often imported, which can increase their carbon footprint and environmental impact.

The Taste Test: Which Milk Alternative Tastes Better?

This is a subjective matter. The taste of spelt milk is slightly nuttier and richer than oat milk, with a slightly sweet and creamy flavor. On the other hand, oat milk has a milder flavor and a smoother texture, making it an ideal choice for a range of recipes. Ultimately, the choice between spelt milk and oat milk comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe you are preparing.

Cost Comparison: Which is More Affordable?

The cost of spelt milk and oat milk can vary depending on where you buy them. Generally speaking, spelt milk is slightly more expensive than oat milk, due to the higher cost of spelt grains. However, both spelt milk and oat milk are still relatively affordable, and can be a good choice for those who are looking to save money on dairy alternatives.

How to Make Spelt Milk at Home

Making spelt milk at home is relatively simple. All you need is spelt grains, water, and a blender. Here��s how to do it:

Soak 1 cup of spelt grains overnight in water.
Drain the soaked spelt grains and rinse them well.
Add the spelt grains and 4 cups of fresh water to a blender and blend for 2-3 minutes, until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Refrigerate the spelt milk in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

How to Make Oat Milk at Home

Making oat milk at home is also easy. Here��s how to do it:

Soak 1 cup of oats overnight in water.
Drain the soaked oats and rinse them well.
Add the oats and 4 cups of fresh water to a blender and blend for 2-3 minutes, until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Refrigerate the oat milk in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

Who Should Choose Spelt Milk?

Spelt milk is an ideal choice for people with celiac or gluten sensitivity, as it is gluten-free. Additionally, it is a good choice for people who are looking to increase their protein and micronutrient intake, as it is higher in these nutrients than oat milk.

Who Should Choose Oat Milk?

Oat milk is a good choice for people who are looking to increase their fiber and vitamin B12 intake, as it is higher in these nutrients than spelt milk. Additionally, it is a good choice for people who are looking for a mild-tasting, versatile milk alternative that can be used in a range of recipes.

Vegan-Friendly Alternatives to Dairy Milk: A Comparison between Spelt and Oat milk

Both spelt milk and oat milk are vegan-friendly alternatives to dairy milk. They are free from cholesterol and lactose, making them a good choice for people with dietary restrictions. Additionally, they are both lower in fat and calories than dairy milk, making them a good choice for those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Tips for Using Both Milks in Your Recipes

Whether you choose spelt milk or oat milk, there are plenty of ways to use these dairy-free alternatives in your recipes. Here are a few tips:

Use spelt milk as a substitute for dairy milk in baking recipes, such as cakes, muffins, and pancakes.
Use oat milk as a substitute for dairy milk in savory dishes, such as soups, sauces, and casseroles.
Blend spelt milk or oat milk with your favorite fruits, nuts, and spices for a healthy and delicious smoothie.
Use spelt milk or oat milk as a dairy-free creamer in your coffee or tea.

Conclusion

Overall, both spelt milk and oat milk offer a range of health benefits and are good choices for eco-conscious and health-conscious consumers. While spelt milk is higher in protein and micronutrients, oat milk is higher in fiber and vitamin B12. Ultimately, the choice between spelt milk and oat milk comes down to personal preference, nutritional needs, and the specific recipe you are preparing.