Savvy employers are recognising the growing trend of plant-based preferences among their workforce. As employees become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, successful businesses are increasingly incorporating plant-based options to meet their staff’s evolving tastes.
A 2019 Mintel study highlights this shift, revealing that nearly a quarter (23%) of Brits had adopted plant-based milk alternatives in the three months leading up to February 2019, a notable increase from 19% in 2018. This trend is only likely to have continued its upward spiral.
Among the various alternatives available, soy milk stands out as a key player during office coffee breaks. Its popularity lies in its versatility, offering health benefits while also complementing beloved hot beverages without compromising flavour. Read on to explore the benefits of adding soy milk to your daily cuppa and how this simple switch can contribute to better heart health at work.
Soy milk has often been labelled as an ultra-processed food, primarily due to its manufacturing process and the frequent addition of sugars and stabilisers. In fact, Oatly (the major producer of oat milk) states on its cartons “no milk, no soy, no badness”.
However, recent research from the University of Toronto challenges this classification. The study investigated the health effects of replacing cow’s milk with soy milk and found that, contrary to common belief, soy milk can positively influence heart health.
Participants who substituted cow’s milk with soy milk experienced lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, reduced blood pressure, and decreased markers of inflammation. As a result, the researchers suggest that soy milk, especially when fortified, should be embraced as a heart-healthy alternative to traditional dairy.
Both unsweetened and sweetened soy milk contribute positively to heart health. According to the same study from University of Toronto, participants who consumed either sweetened or unsweetened soy milk saw reductions in blood pressure and improvements in cholesterol levels.
While unsweetened soy milk is free from added sugars – making it a preferable option for those watching their sugar intake – sweetened varieties still provide health benefits without significantly compromising heart health.
This flexibility means you are free to enjoy the soy milk you prefer according to taste and dietary needs, while still enhancing your heart health during coffee breaks.
From lowering blood pressure to controlling cholesterol levels, the advantages of incorporating soy milk into your diet are backed by robust research. Here’s how soy milk can benefit your heart:
In addition to heart health benefits, soy milk offers several other advantages that can enhance your overall health:
| Nutrition | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Calcium (mg) | Phosphorus (mg) | Potassium (mg) | Vitamin B12 (µg) | Vitamin D (µg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soy Milk | 105 | 6.3 | 3.6 | 300 | 105 | 298 | 2.1 | 2.7 |
| Cows Milk (Whole) | 146 | 8 | 7.8 | 300 | 246 | 366 | 1.3 | 2.7 |
| Cows Milk (Skimmed) | 83 | 8.4 | 0.2 | 322 | 261 | 407 | 1.4 | 2.7 |
All nutritional information has been sourced from USDA’s food database. Servings are based on the average cup size of 244g.
It’s worth noting that many brands of soy milk are fortified with important nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, helping to fill any nutritional gaps that may arise from a plant-based diet.
While plant milks may not match cow’s milk in every category, fortified soy milk can still deliver essential nutrients to support overall health. This makes soy milk a strategic choice for those looking to enhance their dietary intake in a heart-healthy way.
A simple change in the office like introducing soy milk to the kitchen can lead to substantial health benefits. As a heart-healthy alternative to cow’s milk, the presence of a plant-based milk can help encourage your employees to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
When team members feel better physically, they are more likely to engage, collaborate effectively, and maintain high energy levels throughout the workday. Positive and productive atmospheres start in the pantry, so to help support your employees, consider stocking healthy foods within arms reach.
At Office Milk Delivery, we simplify the process of switching to healthier, plant-based alternatives. Our reliable milk deliveries eliminate the hassle of supermarket trips – streamlining a transition towards a brighter workplace.
We recognise that every business is unique. Whether you prefer weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly deliveries, we work with you to establish a timetable that suits your office’s rhythm.
Better yet, we cater to all diverse staff preferences. Offering a range of milk options, including semi-skimmed, whole, oat, soy, and almond milk, you can be sure that everyone in the office can enjoy their preferred cuppa.
