10 Best Milks for Elderly People in the Philippines 2026 | Nestle, Ensure, and More

The good news for lactose intolerant elderly people is that there are plenty of non-dairy alternatives out there. These are milk alternatives made from nuts and beans such as soy, almond, cashew, coconut, hazelnut, and peanuts. There are even formulations made from hemp, oats, and rice, and they taste just as good as dairy milk.

Each non-dairy milk product has a distinct flavor, and some are even creamier than some dairy milk. On top of that, they have a delectable nutty or beany taste. You also get the bonus benefits of antioxidants and Omega-3, so you can add it to your favorite dish or beverages without guilt. Some flavor connoisseurs say that coffee even tastes better with them! 

When buying milk for the elderly, you need to take note of how much fat it contains. To make it easy, just look for plant-based, skimmed, non-fat, or low-fat milk. Plant-based milk is always the best option, as it contains zero fat and has enzymes that help break down the production of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), known as the "bad cholesterol," in your body. 

However, you can still go for dairy milk options, as long as they are non- or low-fat or skim. Low-fat milk contains less than 1.5% fat per cup, which is relatively low compared to the 10%-20% fat content in full cream milk. Better yet, you can go for non-fat or skim milk, as they contain zero fat. 

Check for added sugars and the amount of calories per serving on the label if you are diabetic. There are dairy and non-dairy options that don't contain sugar and high calories that trigger the production of insulin. To be on the safe side, always look for "sugar-free" indicated on the label. If your diabetes is Type 2, milk with inositol would be a better option.

If you don’t have any health concerns, full cream milk is satisfying because it is creamier and has a fuller flavor. Full cream milk, otherwise known as whole milk, comes from dairy animals and is unadulterated or unprocessed. Because of this, it has a palatable fatty flavor unmatched by any other milk alternative, and they have higher nutrients, too. 

UHT means Ultra High Temperature, a process done on milk to kill bacteria and heat-resistant enzymes. This helps the milk to have a longer shelf life, from 6 to 9 months if unopened. Compared to non-UHT milk that can only be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days once opened, this type can last 7-10 days. UHT also contains fewer allergens than regular milk.

In terms of convenience, liquid milk is ready to drink and use, which makes it a popular choice among seniors. You can just pour it in a cup or over your favorite dishes to get the flavor and nutrient benefits of milk. It is also available in handy single-serve packaging, so you don't have to worry about the rest of the unconsumed milk. 

It may not be that convenient, but most milk for elderly people under a targeted nutritional diet is in powdered form. The good thing about it is that it is cheaper, plus it has a longer shelf life since it is free of moisture and oxidation that can lead to spoilage. Powdered milk can last up to a year if left unopened and 2 to 3 months in a fridge if opened.