Milk or soy milk, which one is more "nutritious"?

Milk or soy milk, which one has higher nutritional value? | Anti-aging and health preservation

Anti-Aging Industry Alliance (Author: Jiang Wangling)

Milk and soy milk are both common breakfast partners in life. As drinks with rich nutritional value, they each have unique nutritional components and health benefits.

Which is more "nutritious", cow's milk or soy milk? It depends on one's nutritional needs, health status and dietary preferences. Soy milk is a plant-based drink made by soaking, grinding and boiling soybeans. It is an excellent source of protein for vegetarians and those who are lactose intolerant. Soy milk is rich in high-quality plant protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, potassium and unsaturated fatty acids that are beneficial to heart health. In addition, soy milk also contains phytoestrogens (soy isoflavones), compounds that may have additional health benefits for some people, such as relieving menopausal symptoms.

Milk is a widely consumed animal beverage and an important source of calcium, vitamin D, protein, phosphorus, potassium and vitamin B12. The protein in milk is easily digested and absorbed, and is essential for bone health, muscle repair and maintaining normal nervous system function. However, milk contains lactose, which may cause indigestion in people with lactose intolerance.

In general, soy milk and milk each have their own advantages, and neither is absolutely "more nutritious". For those who seek plant-based protein and avoid animal products, soy milk is an excellent choice. For those who need high calcium and rich animal protein, milk may be a better choice.

A healthy diet should take into account an individual's nutritional needs, food preferences and any specific health conditions. A varied eating pattern that includes a variety of healthy foods and drinks is the best way to maintain health.

The author's unit is the Secretariat of the Anti-Aging Committee of the China National Health Association