has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, becoming a go-to for coffee lovers, smoothie enthusiasts, and those looking to cut back on traditional milk. Praised for its creamy texture and naturally sweet taste, the product has become a staple in many households, particularly among vegans and lactose-intolerant individuals. But while it's often marketed as a healthy, plant-based alternative, one doctor is urging consumers to take a closer look at what's really in their oat milk, warning that it might not be as wholesome as it seems.

Dr Barrett, a board-certified plastic surgeon who shares health insights on TikTok under @barrettplasticsurgery, recently went viral for his strong stance against oat milk. In a now widely-discussed video, he laid out two major reasons why he refuses to drink it, arguing that it can spike blood sugar and contains unhealthy additives.

Dr Barrett's first concern with oat milk is its high carbohydrate content. Unlike dairy milk, which contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbs, oat milk is predominantly carbohydrate-based with minimal protein.

This, he explains, means that drinking oat milk can cause a significant blood sugar spike, potentially even more than traditional coffee creamer.

While many people switch to oat milk thinking it's a better alternative, he warns that its sugar content could have unintended health consequences.

"The number one problem is that oat milk has high carbohydrates and much less protein," Dr. Barrett said in his video. "That's going to spike your blood sugar much more than creamer. While it is a non-dairy alternative for those of you that are lactose intolerant, it comes with some consequences from the higher sugar."

The second issue Dr Barrett highlights is the presence of seed oils, particularly canola oil, in many oat milk brands. Some commercial oat milks add oils to achieve a smoother, richer texture, but Dr Barrett claims these oils can be disruptive to gut health and should be avoided altogether.

"Look at the ingredients on the back," he advised. "That's not good for you guys. It disrupts your gut. You really want to eliminate all seed oils out of your diet if possible."

Oat milk supporters point out that it is free from cholesterol and saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly choice, and that unsweetened versions contain significantly less sugar than flavoured or barista-style oat milk.

Still, nutrition experts caution that not all oat milks are created equal.

Some brands contain added sugars and oils, while others keep their ingredients minimal and natural. Dietitians recommend checking labels carefully and opting for unsweetened versions without added seed oils for the healthiest choice.

For those looking for a dairy-free alternative with fewer carbohydrates and no added oils, options like unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or homemade oat milk may be worth considering.

As with any dietary choice, awareness and moderation are key to making informed decisions about what's best for individual health needs.