Soybeans have been a traditional staple of Asian cuisine for a long time, worldwide demand is growing and, alongside almond, it is now the most popular alternative to cow’s milk. While proving somewhat controversial, the soybean offers several health benefits including:

– unlike cow’s milk, soy milk contains no cholesterol or lactose, making it healthier for your heart
– soy milk is also low in fat, making it a particularly good milk substitute for baking, cooking, and drinks
– it is a recommended beverage for those with casein allergies, lactose intolerance, diabetes or heart diseases
– all soy milks are gluten free and can be used by people with coeliac disease, although soy allergies are becoming increasingly common and are a lot more serious in children
– soy milk contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which aid blood pressure and cholesterol reduction, in addition to which they help protect against cardiovascular and neurological diseases
– the milk holds more natural protein than that of other alternatives (and the same proportion as in cow’s milk)
– while unfortified soy milk lacks B vitamins (especially vitamin B12) and calcium, most commercial brands are fortified with these, as well as vitamins D and E
– it is also an excellent sources of copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous and zinc, helping to control blood pressure, improve blood oxygenation, and protect against diseases

WHAT TO BUY

There are an unbelievable number of soy milk brands on the market at the moment, all offering a huge array of soy milk products. Click next for some of the best brands and some of their best options: