Dairy by Numbers

 We've had a great response to our ‘Truth about Diary’ feature in this month’s issue. And it seems our revelations about milk have caused quite a stir - some readers have entirely cut it out, others are simply cutting back but it seems that many are not entirely sure how milk compares to the substitutes on offer. So we thought we would make things simple – we’ve done our research and here is our guide to milk and its alternatives...

Pros: Contains good quality protein.

Cons: Contains lactose, which some are intolerant to. 

At its best: On cereals and in teas and coffees. 

Pros: Contains easier to digest fat than cow’s milk. 

Cons: Less vitamin-B12 than cow’s milk.

At its best: In cheese and yoghurt. 

Pros: High in anti-oxidants.

Cons: Not safe for people with tree nut allergies. 

At its best: In pancake mix.

Pros: It’s lactose-free making it easier to digest. 

Cons: Some are allergic to soya.

At its best: On cereal. 

Pros: Is the most hypoallergenic of all milk products meaning you are less like to have an adverse reaction drinking it. 

Cons: Not suitable for diabetics because it is high in carbohydrates which can result in escalated sugar levels.  

At its best: Used in baking and on cereal.