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Is Oat Milk FODMAP-Friendly? Find Out Now

Written by: Edward Haugh

Last updated on

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Time to read 16 min

Navigating the world of FODMAP friendly milk alternatives can be challenging, especially when it comes to popular options like oat milk. We're here to shed light on Oat Milk FODMAP and help you make informed decisions for your diet.

Oat milk has gained popularity in recent years, but its FODMAP content might surprise you. While it's low FODMAP in small quantities , larger servings can trigger symptoms in those with sensitivities. We'll explore the specifics of oat milk's FODMAP content, how it compares to other milk alternatives, and what serving sizes are considered safe for those following a low FODMAP diet .

Key Takeaways


  • Oat milk is low FODMAP in small quantities (up to 1/2 cup or 140g) but becomes high FODMAP in larger servings

  • FODMAPs in oat milk include fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), which can trigger digestive symptoms in sensitive individuals

  • Low FODMAP milk alternatives include lactose - free cow's milk, almond milk, rice milk, and soy milk made from soy protein

  • When choosing oat milk, read labels carefully and consider portion sizes to stay within low FODMAP limits

  • Oat milk offers nutritional benefits like added vitamins and fiber , but moderation is key for those following a low FODMAP diet


Understanding FODMAPs and Oat Milk

FODMAPs are like sneaky little troublemakers in our food. They're a group of carbohydrates that can be hard for some people to digest , especially those with sensitive tummies. When it comes to oat milk, it's not all smooth sailing on the FODMAP sea.

Oat milk contains two types of FODMAPs: fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS). These are the "O" in FODMAP, standing for oligosaccharides . Our small intestines sometimes struggle to break these down, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms for those with sensitivities.

Here's the scoop on oat milk's FODMAP content:


Serving Size

FODMAP Content

1/2 cup (140g)

Low FODMAP

> 1/2 cup (140g)

High FODMAP


Monash University, the FODMAP detectives, have tested oat milk and found it's low FODMAP up to 1/2 cup (140g). After that, it's like crossing into FODMAP territory without a passport – not recommended for those on a strict low FODMAP diet.

Interestingly, oat milk's FODMAP content varies by country. In the UK, it's low FODMAP up to 125ml, while in Australia, it's low FODMAP up to 100ml. It's like oat milk decided to play by different rules depending on where it lives!

For those navigating the low FODMAP waters, oat milk can be a refreshing option in small amounts . It's like having a little taste of creamy goodness without rocking the boat. However, for everyday use or larger quantities, you might want to explore other milk alternatives that are more FODMAP-friendly across the board.

What Are FODMAPs?

FODMAPs are a group of carbohydrates that can be tricky for some people to digest. The term stands for Fermentable Oligosaccharides , Disaccharides , Monosaccharides , and Polyols . These sneaky little molecules are found in various foods and can cause digestive discomfort for those with sensitive tummies.

Imagine FODMAPs as party guests who overstay their welcome in your gut. They're fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, producing gas and drawing in extra water. This can lead to bloating , abdominal pain , and changes in bowel habits for some folks.

The main types of FODMAPs include:

  1. Oligosaccharides : Found in wheat, rye, onions, and garlic

  2. Disaccharides : Primarily lactose in dairy products

  3. Monosaccharides : Fructose in some fruits and sweeteners

  4. Polyols : Sugar alcohols like sorbitol and mannitol

When it comes to oat milk, we're mainly concerned with oligosaccharides, specifically fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS). These are the FODMAPs that can make oat milk a potential troublemaker for some sensitive stomachs .

Understanding FODMAPs is crucial for those following a low FODMAP diet or dealing with digestive issues. It's like having a roadmap for your gut health journey, helping you navigate the sometimes turbulent waters of food sensitivities.

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Oat Milk and Its FODMAP Content

Oat milk has become a popular dairy alternative, but oat milk FODMAP content can be a concern for those with digestive sensitivities. Let's check into how oat milk is made and explore oat milk FODMAP levels to help you make informed decisions about your milk choices.

How Oat Milk Is Made

Oat milk production is like turning oats into a creamy, drinkable treat. Here's the scoop:

  1. Soaking : Whole oats take a bath in water, softening them up.

  2. Blending : The oats get a whirl in a blender with fresh water, creating a smooth mixture.

  3. Straining : This oaty slurry is strained to remove solid bits, leaving behind a milky liquid.

  4. Fortifying : Many manufacturers add vitamins and minerals to boost nutritional value.

  5. Homogenizing : The mixture is blended again to ensure a consistent texture.

  6. Stabilizing : Some brands add stabilizers, additives and preservatives to prevent separation and extend shelf life.

The result? A creamy, slightly sweet beverage that's become a darling of coffee shops and health food stores alike. But as with any food, it's not just about taste - it's about how our bodies react to it.


NOTE: You can skip the messy straining process, skip the additives, stabilizers, preservatives, and eliminate single use carton waste by making your own oat milk at home with our Milk Maker. In less than a minute you can be enjoying fresh, automatically filtered milk. You can't even get to the corner store in less than a minute, talk about convenience!

FODMAP Levels in Oat Milk

When it comes to oat milk FODMAPs, oat milk is like a chameleon - its content can change depending on the serving size. Here's the lowdown:

  • Low oat milk FODMAP serving: Up to 1/2 cup (140g) of oat milk is considered low FODMAP by Monash University.

  • High oat milk FODMAP territory: Servings larger than 1/2 cup contain higher levels of fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS).

  • Country variations: In the UK, oat milk is low FODMAP up to 125ml, while in Australia, it's low FODMAP up to 100ml.

For those following a low FODMAP diet, oat milk can be a bit of a tightrope walk. It's like having a friend who's great in small doses but can overstay their welcome. A splash in your coffee ? Probably fine. A big glass with your cookies? Maybe not the best idea.

Remember, everyone's tolerance is different. If you're in the elimination phase of the low FODMAP diet, stick to the recommended serving sizes . Once you've tested your tolerance to GOS and fructans , you might find you can enjoy larger amounts without any tummy trouble.

Low FODMAP Milk Alternatives

For those navigating the low FODMAP diet, finding suitable milk alternatives is crucial. We've compiled a list of FODMAP-friendly options to keep your gut happy and your taste buds satisfied.

Lactose-Free Cow's Milk

Lactose - free cow's milk is a top-tier choice for low FODMAP dieters. It's essentially regular milk with the lactose-digesting enzyme added, making it a safe bet for sensitive stomachs. This milk retains all the nutritional benefits of traditional dairy, including high protein content and calcium. It's slightly sweeter than regular milk due to the breakdown of lactose, but that's a small price to pay for comfort. Remember, lactose-free milk is like a VIP pass for your digestive system – all the perks of dairy without the unwanted after-party. Get ready to shell out more money though as it's pretty expensive.

Almond Milk

Almond milk is the smooth operator of plant-based alternatives. It's low FODMAP in servings up to 1 cup (250ml), making it a versatile option for your morning cereal or afternoon latte. Despite almonds being high FODMAP in larger quantities, almond milk typically contains only a handful of nuts per cup. This milk is like the ninja of non-dairy options – stealthy in its FODMAP content but powerful in flavor. Just be wary of varieties with added fiber or protein, as these can sneak in FODMAPs faster than you can say "gut-friendly."

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Rice Milk

Rice milk is the zen master of low FODMAP milk alternatives. It's naturally low in FODMAPs and offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor that doesn't overpower your dishes. This option is particularly suitable for those with multiple food sensitivities, as it's free from nuts and soy. Rice milk is like the Switzerland of plant-based milks – neutral, agreeable, and unlikely to cause any digestive disputes. However, it's lower in protein compared to other alternatives, so you might want to pair it with protein-rich foods for a balanced diet.

Soy Milk Made from Soy Protein

Soy milk made from soy protein is the chameleon of low FODMAP milk alternatives. While regular soy milk can be high in FODMAPs, varieties made from soy protein are typically safe in servings up to 1 cup (250ml). This type of soy milk offers a protein punch similar to dairy milk, making it a favorite among plant-based fitness enthusiasts. It's like the Clark Kent of milk alternatives – seemingly ordinary, but packing a super-powered nutritional profile. Just be sure to double-check the label, as not all soy milks are created equal in the FODMAP world.

High FODMAP Milk Options to Avoid

While exploring the world of milk alternatives, it's crucial to know which options might upset your tummy if you're following a low FODMAP diet. Let's check into some high FODMAP milk choices that you might want to steer clear of, at least during the elimination phase.

Regular Cow's Milk

Regular cow's milk is like the troublemaker at the FODMAP party . It's packed with lactose , a type of sugar that can wreak havoc on sensitive digestive systems . In fact, cow's milk is only low FODMAP in tiny amounts - we're talking about 2-3 tablespoons max. Anything more than that, and you might find yourself in a bit of a dairy dilemma. It's worth noting that while a splash of milk in your coffee might be okay, using cow's milk for your morning cereal or in recipes could quickly push you into high FODMAP territory. Think of it as a ticking lactose time bomb - a little bit might be fine, but too much could lead to an explosive situation in your gut!

Goat's Milk

Goat's milk might seem like a trendy alternative, but when it comes to FODMAPs, it's not much different from its bovine cousin. Just like cow's milk, goat's milk contains lactose, making it a high FODMAP option. While it's true that some people find goat's milk easier to digest than cow's milk, this doesn't necessarily translate to FODMAP friendliness. Goat's milk is only considered low FODMAP in very small servings - about 2 tablespoons or 30ml. Any more than that, and you're venturing into high FODMAP land. So, while goat's milk might be the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) for some, it's not the hero we're looking for on a low FODMAP journey.

Soy Milk Made from Whole Soybeans

Soy milk can be a bit of a FODMAP chameleon - it all depends on how it's made. Soy milk produced from whole soybeans is high in FODMAPs, specifically galactooligosaccharides (GOS). These sneaky FODMAPs can cause digestive distress for sensitive individuals. It's like playing FODMAP roulette - you might be okay with a small amount, but larger servings could lead to uncomfortable symptoms. The tricky part is that many store-bought soy milk brands use whole soybeans in their production. So, if you're in the elimination phase of the low FODMAP diet, it's best to avoid these types of soy milk altogether. Instead, look for soy milk made from soy protein, which is typically lower in FODMAPs and safer for sensitive tummies.

Choosing the Right Oat Milk for a Low FODMAP Diet

Navigating the world of oat milk on a low FODMAP diet can be tricky. We'll guide you through the process of selecting the right oat milk to keep your tummy happy and your taste buds satisfied.

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Reading Labels Carefully

When it comes to oat milk FODMAPs, playing detective with product labels is key. We've learned that not all oat milks are created equal in the FODMAP world. Look for oat milks that specifically mention being made from oat protein rather than whole oats. These tend to be lower in FODMAPs.

Keep an eye out for added ingredients like inulin or chicory root , which can be FODMAP bombs in disguise. Some brands fortify their oat milk with vitamins and minerals - that's usually fine, but watch out for added sweeteners or flavors that might sneak in extra FODMAPs.

Remember, ingredient lists are like treasure maps - the first items listed are the most abundant. If oats or oat flour are near the top, proceed with caution. It's like playing FODMAP bingo, but the prize is a happy gut!

Portion Size Considerations

When it comes to oat milk FODMAPs, size matters! We've found that sticking to smaller portions is the name of the game. Monash University, the oat milk FODMAP detectives, have given the green light to oat milk in servings up to 1/2 cup (140g).

Think of it like filling a kiddie pool instead of an Olympic-sized one - a little splash of oat milk in your coffee or a small pour over your cereal is usually fine. But don't go overboard, or you might find yourself in choppy FODMAP waters.

Remember, everyone's tolerance is different. Start small and see how your body reacts. It's like dipping your toe in the oat milk pool before diving in headfirst. And if you're in the elimination phase of the low FODMAP diet, you may want to stick to other milk alternatives until you're ready to test the oat milk waters.

Nutritional Benefits of Oat Milk

Oat milk packs a punch when it comes to nutritional value . It's a creamy contender in the alternative milk arena, offering a range of benefits that might make you say "moo-ve over" to traditional dairy.

First off, oat milk is naturally sweet and often fortified with essential nutrients. Many brands add calcium , vitamin D , and vitamin B12 , making it a nutritional powerhouse comparable to cow's milk. This fortification is especially important for those following plant-based diets or with lactose intolerance.

When it comes to calories, oat milk sits in the middle of the pack. It's not as light as almond milk but not as heavy as some nut-based alternatives. This makes it a versatile option for those watching their calorie intake while still wanting a satisfying milk substitute.

Oat milk shines in the fiber department. Unlike many other milk alternatives, it contains beta - glucans , a type of soluble fiber that's great for heart health. These fibers may help lower cholesterol levels and promote a healthy gut .

For the environmentally conscious, oat milk is a sustainable choice. It requires less water and land to produce compared to dairy milk, making it a winner for the planet.

However, it's worth noting that oat milk FODMAP content can vary. While it's generally low FODMAP in small amounts (up to 1/2 cup or 140g), larger servings may not be suitable for those following a strict low FODMAP diet. As always, moderation is key, especially if you're sensitive to FODMAPs.

Tips for Incorporating Oat Milk in a Low FODMAP Diet

We know navigating the world of oat milk on a low FODMAP diet can feel like walking a tightrope. But fear not! We've got some handy tips to help you enjoy this creamy delight without upsetting your tummy .

First, remember that portion size is key. Stick to the golden rule of 1/2 cup (140g) or less per serving. Think of it as your oat milk allowance - spend it wisely! A splash in your morning coffee or a dash in your smoothie can go a long way.

When shopping, become a label detective. Avoid products with sneaky additions like inulin or chicory root, which can be FODMAP troublemakers.

Get creative with your oat milk use. Try it in small amounts in baking or cooking. A tablespoon or two in a recipe spread across multiple servings is unlikely to cause issues. It's like adding a pinch of magic without the FODMAP overload.

If you're an oat milk latte lover, consider making it at home where you can control the amount. Use 1/4 cup oat milk and top up with hot water for a gentler version of your favorite drink.

Remember, everyone's tolerance is different. Start small and listen to your body. It's like getting to know a new friend - take it slow and see how you get along.

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Conclusion

Oat milk can be a delicious and nutritious option for those following a low FODMAP diet but it's crucial to be mindful of serving sizes . We've explored its FODMAP content various milk alternatives and practical tips for incorporating oat milk safely into your diet. Remember that individual tolerance levels vary so it's essential to listen to your body. By making informed choices and sticking to recommended portions you can enjoy the benefits of oat milk while managing your digestive health. Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice on navigating the low FODMAP diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is oat milk low FODMAP?

Oat milk FODMAP is low in small amounts. According to Monash University, it's safe up to 1/2 cup (140g) per serving. However, larger portions can be high in FODMAPs, specifically fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS). The FODMAP content may vary by country, so it's essential to check local guidelines and listen to your body.

What are FODMAPs?

FODMAPs are Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols. These are types of carbohydrates that can be difficult for some people to digest. When fermented by gut bacteria, they can cause digestive discomfort like bloating and abdominal pain. Common FODMAPs include fructans in wheat, lactose in dairy, fructose in some fruits, and sugar alcohols like sorbitol.

How is oat milk made?

Oat milk is made by soaking oats in water, blending the mixture, and then straining out the solids. The resulting liquid is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, and stabilizers may be added for texture. While the process is simple, the FODMAP content can vary based on the manufacturing method and additives used.

What are some FODMAP-friendly milk alternatives?

Several FODMAP-friendly milk alternatives include lactose-free cow's milk, almond milk (up to 1 cup/250ml), rice milk, and soy milk made from soy protein (up to 1 cup/250ml). These options provide variety for those following a low FODMAP diet. It's important to check serving sizes and read labels carefully to ensure they don't contain high FODMAP additives.

Which milk options should be avoided on a low FODMAP diet?

On a low FODMAP diet, avoid regular cow's milk and goat's milk due to their high lactose content. Soy milk made from whole soybeans is also high in FODMAPs, particularly GOS. These milk options are only low FODMAP in very small amounts (2-3 tablespoons) and should be avoided during the elimination phase of the diet.

How can I choose the right oat milk for a low FODMAP diet?

To choose FODMAP-friendly oat milk, read labels carefully and look for options made from oat protein rather than whole oats. Avoid products with added inulin or chicory root, which increase FODMAP content. Stick to recommended serving sizes (1/2 cup or 140g) to minimize potential digestive discomfort. Remember that individual tolerance may vary.

What are the nutritional benefits of oat milk?

Oat milk is naturally sweet and often fortified with essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. It contains beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber beneficial for heart health. Oat milk is also considered a sustainable choice due to its lower environmental impact compared to dairy milk. However, moderation is key, especially for those sensitive to FODMAPs.

How can I incorporate oat milk into a low FODMAP diet?

To incorporate oat milk into a low FODMAP diet, practice portion control (max 1/2 cup or 140g per serving). Choose oat milks made from oat protein and without high FODMAP additives. Use it creatively in cooking and baking, or make homemade oat milk lattes to control serving sizes. Start with small amounts and monitor your body's response, as individual tolerance can vary.

Edward Haugh - Founder of Milk Depot
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Author: Edward Haugh - Founder of Milk Depot

Edward is a leading authority on plant based milks. With a passion for health, sustainability, and innovation, he has transformed the way consumers approach milk. His flagship product, the Milk Maker, enables users to create fresh, homemade plant-based milks in under a minute, free from additives and preservatives, all while saving customers up to 90% the cost of store bought milks.

As a trusted voice in the plant-based community, Edward advocates for the benefits of almond, oat, cashew, hemp, soy and all plant based milks while raising awareness on the dangers of the conventional milk industry, from it's additives, single use packaging waste, to environmental concerns and everything in-between. 

Through his articles on the free milk makers academy, and recipe blog, he provides essential insights and resources, empowering individuals to adopt healthier, eco-friendly choices. Edward Haugh is your go-to expert for all things plant based milk.
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