What is Better Cashew or Macadamia Milk For A Wholesome Diet?

Increasing awareness has led to an increased availability of plant based milks. While the options are increasing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to pick the best. As a nutritionist, today I help you make one such difficult choice between macadamia milk versus cashew milk.

So, let us find answers to a frequently asked question – which is better cashew milk or macadamia milk, by analysing their differences & benefits.

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Criteria Based Analysis Of Cashew Milk Versus Macadamia Milk

In the below table I am comparing macadamia milk vs cashew milk benefits and differences- 

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 cup

With this information as the base let us move on to discuss each criteria in detail for both macadamia milk and cashew milk.

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia Milk: Know The Base Ingredients And Making

Cashew milk is made by soaking cashews and blending them. Unlike macadamia nuts they need not be soaked overnight. It requires less soaking time making it much easier to prepare at home. 

Macadamia nuts originated from Africa and Australia. The shelled nuts are soaked in water overnight and are blended with adequate amounts of water. It is then drained to obtain macadamia milk.

Which Has A More Favorable Taste, Cashew Milk Or Macadamia Milk?

Cashew milk is one of the very few plant based milks with an appealing taste. It has a sweet undertone and a creamy flavor. It can be consumed as such and is mostly loved by people of all age groups. When it comes to macadamia milk vs cashew milk difference in taste, cashew milk has an added advantage with its versatile flavour.

Macadamia milk has a nutty taste with a subtle flavor. It is creamy in texture. It might be difficult to get used to its taste when you are new to plant based milks. Adding natural sweeteners can help in enhancing the taste of macadamia milk.

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia Milk: Can 1 Cup Per Day Suffice?

Cashew milk is a good source of essential fats that are beneficial to our body. They are also great for eye health and skin health too apart from the many benefits. Having a cup of cashew milk per day works great to achieve a healthy lifestyle.

When we look at macadamia milk vs cashew milk benefits, both have so much to offer. Macadamia nut has a diverse nutrient profile and is a good source of many essential minerals and vitamins required for every day functioning. Hence, consuming 1 cup of macadamia milk per day is sufficient.

Which Enables A Balanced Calorie Intake, Cashew or Macadamia Milk?

Cashew milk has less calorie content than macadamia milk. It is an excellent option for people looking for a low calorie health drink. Having a balanced diet will ensure the calorie requirement for day to day functioning. So remember to choose the plant milks accordingly.

Macadamia milk is higher in calories than cashew milk. However, they are still less when compared to many other plant based milks like peanut milk. 

Cashew Milk Or Macadamia Milk: Better Fat Profile?

Plant based milks have a great advantage over dairy when it comes to fats. They have unsaturated fats or healthy fats that are very beneficial. 

Both macadamia milk and cashew milk are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids which makes them beneficial for heart health. In comparison to macadamia milk, cashew milk has a very less fat content. This makes it a better choice when fat is concerned.

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia: Which Has More Protein Content?

Cashew milk is slightly higher in protein content when compared to macadamia milk. The homemade cashew milk has more protein compared to store bought cashew milk.

Macadamia milk has low protein compared to many other plant-based milks. They also lack major amino acids which are building blocks for protein. Hence, macadamia milk might not be a better option for protein requirements.

Calcium Competence of Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia Milk

Cashew milk, like macadamia milk, is low in calcium. But the market versions offer fortified calcium in cashew milks. Naturally, cashew milks are good sources of magnesium and manganese which are very important for bone health. 

Macadamia milk is naturally low in calcium. But the market versions are fortified with calcium, minerals and vitamins. Macadamia milk being a good source of vitamin D is very helpful in strengthening bones. 

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia Milk: Which Time Works Great For Consumption?

Cashew milk can be consumed both in the morning and night. Being a low calorie, low fat milk it is a great option for a healthy breakfast. It is fibre rich and keeps one satiated for a long time. When consumed at night, it helps to get good sleep with its sleep-inducing properties.

Macadamia milk is great to consume in the mornings. They energize the system and add some of the essential nutrients to your diet right in the morning. However, if you are opting for a market version please ensure it does not have added sugars as consuming it in the morning might set you for a bad start. 

Which Makes For A  Sustainable Option Between Cashew Milk & Macadamia Milk?

Cashew milk on the hand is moderately sustainable as it consumes more water for cultivation. It stands next to almond milk in terms of water consumption. However, when compared to dairy, it is a better choice for sustainability.

Macadamia milk is a very sustainable choice when compared to cashew milk. It uses less water for production  and absorbs more carbon dioxide.  It also does not damage the soil. To make it more eco friendly, opt for organically grown and locally available milk than the imported ones. 

Which Is A Vegan-Friendly Option Cashew Or Macadamia Milk?

With the changing lifestyle and environmental scenarios, more and more people are shifting towards a plant-based diet. From the vegan point of food, both macadamia milk and cashew milk are completely vegan.

 If you are new to veganism, you can start with cashew milk and slowly explore other plant based milks like macadamia milk. When adopting a vegan lifestyle it is good to remember to opt and eat  wholesome foods for total nourishment.

Which Is A Better Fit For Oral Care Between Cashew & Macadamia Milk?

Though naturally macadamia milk and cashew milk has low levels of calcium, their store bought versions are fortified with calcium. Besides this, macadamia milk has a decent amount of phosphorus which is great for strong teeth.

Cashew milk is a good source of vitamin K. This vitamin acts as a protective shield in protecting the teeth and gums from external infections. It is also good to remember to consume these milks with less sugar or healthy sweeteners as it can have a negative impact on oral health.

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia: Which Aids A Troubled Tummy?

Macadamia milk is lactose free and gluten free. It is a great choice for people facing these allergies. Macadamia milk is also fiber rich and easy to digest. They are soothing for the tummy and help in maintaining overall gut health.

Cashew milk too is lactose and gluten-free. Besides being rich in fibre they are also a good source of Zinc. Zinc is a mineral that helps in healing and promotes intestinal health. 

Which Is A Chilling Option For Hot Days Cashew or Macadamia Milk? 

Macadamia milk and cashew milk are well suited for winters. They warm the body when consumed on a cold day.

However since they are soaked and blended with generous amounts of water they can very well cool down the body.

Which Is A Better Hydrating Option, Cashew Milk or Macadamia Milk?

Cashew milk with its good amount of water content also helps in keeping the body hydrated. It also has decent levels of potassium which helps in retaining lost fluids.

Macadamia nuts are rich in potassium. Macadamia milk made from these nuts can hydrate the body well due to the presence of potassium. Potassium is one of the main electrolytes required by the body to rehydrate and retain the fluid content.

Cashew Milk Vs Macadamia: Versatility With Additives

Cashew milk with its creamy silky texture and sweet taste is one of the most favoured plant based milks in the kitchen. They are used in soups, and curries to enrich the taste and flavor. They are used in baking with various flavours like chocolate, vanilla and are consumed as smoothies and healthy shakes. 

Macadamia milk with its subtle taste and creamy texture is preferred by people to consume as smoothies, fruit-based shakes, in baking and as breakfast beverages. They are consumed with flavors like vanilla, honey and even coffee. It is good to remember that though it can be used in different ways, it cannot replace heavy cream in recipes. 

Now, getting back to the question, what is better macadamia milk or cashew milk? As is evident from the discussion above both are nutritious plant milk options with multiple benefits. If you have to pick one, I would suggest that you evaluate your requirements

Listening closely to your body and finding out the needs will help in choosing the one that balances your diet for optimal wellness. 

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