Which Milk Is Better For Your Wellbeing- Pea or Cow?

Dairy versus non-dairy milk is one of the biggest debates in the present times. One prominent question that keeps coming up in this regard is, what to pick between pea milk versus cow milk for a healthy lifestyle?

Pea milk is the latest addition to the growing world of plant milks and is being considered to offer numerous benefits But is it as good as cow milk? Let us find out.  

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Pea Milk Versus Cow Milk: Comparing Their Nutrition & Benefits

The table below compares pea milk and cow’s milk across different aspects –

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 cup

I hope this table was able to clear your basic doubts regarding pea milk vs cow milk nutrition and outcomes. Let me now get into more details – 

What Are Key Components Of Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk

Pea milk is made using yellow split peas. These are soaked, cooked, and blended with water to obtain an off-white or slightly yellowish pea milk.  Apart from water, sunflower or other oils are also added in the making process to prevent the separation of the solids from water.

Cow milk, as the name suggests, is derived from cows. This milk is then boiled and filtered before consumption. It is also used to make other dairy products like cheese, butter, curd, etc.

How Taste and Texture Of Ripple Milk Differ from Cow’s Milk?

One of the most commonly available pea milk is manufactured by Ripple Foods hence pea milk has become synonymous with Ripple milk. The taste of Ripple or pea milk is quite creamy and pleasant with a somewhat pea-like flavor and smooth texture. Its consistency may be thick or thin depending on the amount of water added.

On the other hand, cow’s milk is very creamy and luscious. It has a naturally sweet flavour with a smooth and rich texture. Its consistency is a bit thick.

What Is the Recommended Daily Consumption Of Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk

Pea milk and cow’s milk should both be consumed daily but within the limits to gain maximum benefits. While one cup a day is good enough for pea milk, up to 2 cups of cow’s milk can be consumed in a day. 

Here I would like to address another popular question- pea milk versus cow’s milk for toddlers. While pea milk boasts of essential nutrients, it lags behind dairy in some important nutrients, especially Calcium. Since calcium is very important for growing kids, cow’s milk is more suitable for toddlers.

How Much Does the Calorific Value Of Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk Vary?

If you are into fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, I am sure you keep tabs on your calorie intake. So, it is important to know the difference in the calorie content of cow and pea milk.

It’s evident from the above table that cow’s milk contains almost double the calories as pea milk. So, if you are someone trying to limit their calorie intake, pea milk is definitely a better option.

Fat Content Of Pea Milk Compared to Cow Milk

Fat content in foods plays a vital role in maintaining health. However,  high-fat consumption may lead to weight gain and increased cholesterol which may result in heart diseases.

When we compare the total fat content in both the products, it is observed that pea milk contains a lesser quantity of fats. So, if you are planning to lose weight, pea milk is surely a better option.

Comparing Pea Milk Versus Cow Milk Protein 

We know that proteins are very essential for the growth of the body and maintenance of other vital functions. Hence, it is important that you consume the recommended daily quantity of protein from your food sources

While most plant milks are low in protein, it is not the same in the case of pea milk.  Pea milk packs the same amount of proteins as cow’s milk. So, you can consume either of these based on your taste and availability.

Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk: Better Source of Calcium

Plant milks contain very less quantities of calcium which is a major disadvantage of these products. However, the commercial packs of pea milk are fortified with calcium to make up for this deficiency. 

Cow milk in comparison is one of the best sources of calcium. So, in case you are looking for a calcium-rich drink, either choose cow milk or fortified versions of pea milk.

Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk- How Do They Affect the Ecosystem?

We know that cow’s milk is a dairy product that is obtained from animals. The production of dairy milk requires more resources than plant milk. This means increased pressure on land and freshwater and more use of agrochemicals which affects our ecosystem badly.

Therefore, dairy is not a good choice for the planet. Pea milk on the other hand is environmentally sustainable and good for the planet.

Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk- Which One’s Vegan-Friendly?

Pea milk is one of the best plant-based vegan products that is suitable for casein, gluten, lactose and dairy-allergic people. It is also suitable for you if you face soy- or nut allergies.

While cow’s milk has numerous benefits, it is derived from an animal source. This is the reason for it being a non-vegan product. 

Explore the Right Time to Drink Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk

While Cow milk has been consumed for ages, pea Milk is new and people are still finding ways of including them in their diet including using them in smoothies and in thickening curries.

So, what is the right time to consume these milks? Pea milk should preferably be consumed in the morning so as to get most of its benefits. Cow milk should be consumed either in the morning for a good boost of energy or before bedtime as they promote good sleep.

Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk- How Do They Benefit Oral Health?

Marketed versions of pea milk are power-packed with calcium and vitamin D. These two nutrients are helpful in maintaining and improving overall oral health.

Cow milk contains nutrients such as phosphorus, vitamin A, calcium and vitamin D in good amounts. These nutrients all together help in strengthening teeth, jawbones and gums, thus ensuring a problem-free mouth.  

Pea Milk Versus Cow’s Milk- Better Drink For Tummy Health?

Pea milk is a leguminous plant product which is rich in fibre. Fibre helps in easing digestion by reabsorbing water from the intestines. It is thus quite good for stomach health.

Cow’s milk contains nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium ensuring enhanced digestive health. However, some who have lactose intolerance may be unable to digest cow’s milk.

Which is A more Refreshing Summer Drink: Pea Milk Or Cow Milk?

You can devour pea milk and cow’s milk for their refreshing properties. Cow’s milk contains almost 87 per cent water and pea milk also holds an adequate amount of water as well. Therefore these two products work phenomenally in soothing the body in summers.

Both the drinks can also be made into cold beverages that can effectively help beat the heat.

Pea Milk Vs Cow’s Milk: Which One Provides Better Hydration to The Body?

Pea milk contains plenty of water which helps to maintain the required level of water in the body. It also contains minerals like potassium, which maintain electrolyte balance in the body and prevents dehydration

Cow’s milk contains essential minerals e.g. potassium, and sodium in significant amounts along with water which helps to maintain the ideal water level in the body.

Comparing the Versatility of Pea Milk Vs Cow Milk

Pea milk is a versatile plant-based beverage that can be drunk straight or used in different preparations. It can substitute dairy milk in oatmeal, smoothies, curries, milkshakes or coffee. You can also try it with chia seeds or some nuts like dates and walnuts. 

Cow’s milk is one of the most commonly drunk beverages in the world and is used in many ways. It can be made more nutritious by adding some chopped nuts and dry fruits like almonds,  raisins, cashews, walnuts or dates. You can also choose to flavour it with some honey or jaggery and use it to prepare shakes and more.

From the above discussion, it is clear that cow milk and pea milk have countless benefits to the human body.  You can consume any of these depending on your preferences and requirements. If you have lactose and dairy allergies or are environment-conscious, you should avoid cow’s milk and try pea milk.

I hope that you liked this blog and it cleared all your doubts regarding the two forms of milk. If you still have any questions, feel free to reach me in the comments section below.