Is Skim or Soy Milk Better For You?
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Why Skim Milk?
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Skim milk is a low-fat alternative to whole milk. Skim milk is a low-fat version of cow's milk, which is high in calcium, low in saturated fat, and high in Vitamins A and B12. It is also a good source of potassium, riboflavin, and phosphorus. Skim milk is a dairy product, however, so anyone with a lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivity should avoid it.
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Why Soy Milk?
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Soy milk contains essential nutrients for optimum health. Soy milk is made from soybeans. It is low in saturated fat, and is high in minerals such as selenium and magnesium. It doesn't naturally contain the calcium cow's milk does, but many soy milks are fortified with added calcium and nutrients. Soy milk also contains high amounts of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, and is also a healthy alternative to cow's milk for vegans.
Bottom Line
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Soy milk seems to be a healthier alternative. Overall, soy milk and skim milk contain about the same amount of protein and are both high in nutrients, but soy milk is lower in cholesterol. Certain brands, such as Silk, which has been made from whole soybeans, contains calcium and vitamin D, nutrients cow's milk is prized for. While skim milk did seem to be a favorite in the past, soy milk easily ties in the health category, and it seems to be a nutritional alternative for everyone, including vegans, vegetarians, and those who are lactose intolerant.
References
- Photo Credit pouring milk image by Kimberly Reinick from Fotolia.com cow. cow in farm/field image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com Close-up of beans in its pod image by Nikolay Okhitin from Fotolia.com milk boy 7 image by Paul Moore from Fotolia.com
