Flax or Pistachio: Which Plant-Based Milk Reigns Supreme?

Rohit Panwar

The popularity of vegan milk is sky-high and so is the dilemma of choosing the best option. Here’s let’s deal with one such option – flax milk versus pistachio milk.

As a nutritionist, I will take you through flax milk vs pistachio milk differences and similarities. This information will be handy during your next supermarket visit.  

Flax Milk vs Pistachio Milk: Differences Based on 16  Nutritional Metrics

In the table below, Let’s glance at flax milk versus pistachio milk’s benefits and nutritions. 

BASE INGREDIENTS
Flax Milk

Flax seeds & Water

Pistachio Milk

Pistachio Nuts & water

TASTE
Flax Milk

Earthy & Seed-like

Pistachio Milk

Sweet & Nutty

DAILY INTAKE
Flax Milk

1 Cup

Pistachio Milk

1 Cup

CALORIES
Flax Milk

48.77*

Pistachio Milk

50.2*

CARBOHYDRATES
Flax Milk

4 g*

Pistachio Milk

 1.3 g*

FAT CONTENT
Flax Milk

3.25 g*

Pistachio Milk

4.3 g*

PROTEIN CONTENT
Flax Milk

2.2 g*

Pistachio Milk

2 g*

CALCIUM CONTENT
Flax Milk

24 – 450 mg*

Pistachio Milk

20 – 200 mg*

RECOMMENDED TIME
Flax Milk

Morning or Bedtime

Pistachio Milk

Morning or Bedtime

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Flax Milk

Positive

Pistachio Milk

Positive

VEGAN FRIENDLINESS
Flax Milk

Yes

Pistachio Milk

Yes

ORAL HEALTH OUTCOME
Flax Milk

Good

Pistachio Milk

Good

BONE HEALTH OUTCOME
Flax Milk

Good

Pistachio Milk

Good

TUMMY HEALTH OUTCOME
Flax Milk

Very Good

Pistachio Milk

Good 

BODY HYDRATION EFFECT
Flax Milk

Good

Pistachio Milk

 Good

VERSATILITY
Flax Milk

 Good

Pistachio Milk

Very Good

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 cup

Key Ingredients and Making Process of Flax Milk Vs Pistachio Milk

Flax Seeds and water are the main ingredients to make flax milk. Before putting flaxseeds in the blender, soak them overnight or at least for 7-8 hours. Four cups of water is ideal for 1 cup of flax seeds but you can adjust according to your desired consistency. 

For DIY pistachio milk, pistachio nuts and water are the base requirements. Soak the nuts, blend and sieve through a nut bag or strainer lined with cheesecloth. 

Flax Milk vs Pistachio Milk: Which One Is More Delectable?

Flax milk has a gel like consistency, so shake it well before pouring it into your glass. It is neutral in taste with a hint of seed-like flavour.

It has a creamy texture and usually when you store it in the fridge it becomes more thick. You add more water to make it thin.

Pistachio milk has a beautiful pale greenish colour, which is different from flax milk and all other plant based milks.

It has a rich nutty taste with a hint of sweetness. It is silky smooth in texture. 

What Is the Daily Recommended Quantity of Flax Milk Vs Pistachio Milk?

Flax seeds and pistachios are the powerhouse of many essential nutrients such as zinc, iron and copper. These nutrients get inherited in their milks.

So, consuming 1 cup of both these alt milk will be sufficient to get the maximum benefits. I recommend that you stick to the recommended quantity of these milks to avoid any side effects like bloating or diarrhea.  

Flax Milk vs Pistachio Milk: Which One Has More Calories?

Humans need calories in order to function in a healthy way. Many people monitor their per day calorie count due to various reasons including weight gain or loss. 

This makes it essential to know how many the calorie count in flax and pistachio milk. Both the milks consist of almost the same amount of calories and there isn’t much difference. 

Which Alt Milk Will Fuel You up Better Flax Milk or Pistachio Milk?

Carbohydrates are considered as the fuel for your body that come from- sugar, starch and fiber. Plant based foods and beverages contain natural carbs which are considered good for the body. 

Pistachio milk has less carbs compared to flax milk. If you want to control your carbs intake then pistachio milk is a better option. 

Know the Difference in Fat Between Flax & Pistachio Milk

Flax milk has less fat content compared to pistachio milk. However, the fat in both these milks are considered good for you. 

In fact, the fat in pistachio nuts helps to boost your heart health. This makes pistachio milk a good choice to add to your regular diet. Flax milk contains omega-3 and omega-6 which reduce the cholesterol level in the body. 

Flax Milk or Pistachio Milk, Which Is a Better Source of Protein?

Compared to dairy milk, most of the plant based milks have less protein. Flax milk and pistachio milk are almost at the same level of protein. 

To make these milks compatible with dairy milk, you can add some natural protein powder if you are making them at home.

Do Flax Milk and Pistachio Milk Contain Enough Calcium?

Market versions of flax milk and pistachio milk are fortified with calcium. If you have children at home then these packed versions are a better choice than DIY options.

Remember each brand has a different amount of calcium, so it is advisable to read labels first. 

When Should You Consume Flax Milk Vs Pistachio Milk to Get Maximum Benefit?

Flax milk and pistachio milk, both can be consumed either in the morning or at bedtime. These alt milks are full of fiber, which gives you a healthy start of the day. 

Flax milk and pistachio milk are also ideal for a good night sleep. You can add these milks to your bedtime routine. 

Flax Milk and Pistachio Milk: How Do They Impact the Ecosystem?

Plant based milks are more sustainable compared to dairy milks because their carbon footprints are less.  Flax milk and pistachio milk are thus both are environmentally friendly milk options.

Flax seeds and pistachio nuts required less water and land to grow. They also help to maintain the soil quality. However, pistachios can be grown only in certain climates which makes them expensive nuts for other parts of the world. 

Are Flax Milk and Pistachio Milk Vegan-Friendly?

If you follow veganism then you can definitely add flax milk and pistachio milk to your vegan lifestyle. Both these milks are free from any animal product.

Flax milk and pistachio milk are suitable for people who are lactose,dairy, soy or gluten intolerant. Pistachio milk can be added to Keto diet too, because it contains very less carbs.

Flax Milk vs Pistachio Milk Benefits for Oral Health

Calcium and vitamin D are two most important elements to keep your mouth happy and healthy. Commercially packed versions are fortified with these nutrients, thus considered better than the homemade flax and pistachio milk.

I will recommend buying unsweetened packs of these milks to avoid the harmful added sugar. To enhance the flavour, you can add natural sugar like honey or jaggery powder. 

Flax Milk and Pistachio Milk’s Effect on Your Bones

For healthy bones you must have a healthy diet which is full of calcium, vitamin D and protein. You also need magnesium, potassium and phosphorus for strong bones. Nuts and seeds are good sources of these nutrients. 

This makes flax milk and pistachio milk a healthy option for your bones.  You can add protein powder while consuming these milks to make them even better. 

Which Is Better for Ingestion: Flax Milk or Pistachio Milk?

Both these alt milks are full of fiber, which helps to keep your digestive system smooth and problem free. However, compared to pistachio milk, flax milk is easier on your stomach.

Pistachio milk is a nut based milk and some people can be allergic to it. They may face bloating or indigestion because of this. 

Flax Milk vs Pistachio Milk: Which Keeps You More Supple?

Flax milk and pistachio milk are full of many electrolytes such as potassium and phosphorus, which help the body to stay hydrated. 

Pistachio milk also contains copper, which is considered a helpful mineral for radiant skin. 

How Do Flax Milk and Pistachio Milk Adapt to Different Recipes?

The rich, creamy texture of pistachio milk is very versatile in use. It is an excellent alternative of dairy milk for all the frothy coffee like frappuccino, cappuccino etc.. 

The gelatinous texture of flax milk is a good alternative to eggs for baking.but the earthy flavor of it limits its versatility.  

In the end, I would say the choice between flax milk versus pistachio milk, depends on your personal requirements and preferences. Before choosing the one, It is important to know your needs and any other limitations such as allergies and taste choices. 

If you still have some more doubts, do let me know in the comment section. 

Rohit Panwar

Hi! I'm Integrated Nutrition Coach Rohit Panwar. I hold twin Certifications from IIN, New York & SAFM, Massachusetts. I am a passionate vocalist of holistic lifestyle and have fully committed the past several years to educate & empower people towards their wellbeing. Despite a successful yet hectic corporate stint of 21+ years, I have prioritised nutriment in my life. I truly hope my personal journey from illness to wellness helps everybody reading this forge their own path.