Almond milk has gained a lot of attention lately as a dairy substitute because of its nutty flavour and creamy texture.
Since almonds are considered to be a very healthy nut, the milk is also believed to offer high advantages.
With so much being said about veganism and lactose intolerance, a number of plant based milks have gained popularity- almond milk being one of them.
But before getting on the almond milk bandwagon, here are some factors to consider:
1. Poor quality almonds churned into milk
Almond milk is easy to prepare at home, it can be made by grinding almonds with water, straining and storing them in a bottle. However, store bought almond milk is made with broken and unsightly almonds. Store bought almond milk is of inferior quality made with only a few almonds, some canola oil, high fructose corn syrup and some flavourings all blended together to make almond milk and sell it for a high price. Almond milk is high in oxalate that causes gout and joint pains. If you’re consuming a high in oxalate diet like kale smoothies, it can make tiny razor sharp oxalate crystals in your skin. Hence, many doctors do not recommend almond milk.
2. Nutritional profile
Although almond milk is sometimes promoted as a healthy substitute for dairy milk, it doesn’t include the same naturally occurring minerals that are present in cow’s milk, like calcium, protein, and vitamin B12. While some kinds of almond milk incorporate these minerals to strengthen it, others could include extra sugars and preservatives that counteract the health benefits.
3. Potential allergens
Almond milk should be used with caution by those who are allergic to nuts, as almonds are a common allergen. For people who have severe allergies, cross-contamination during production procedures may also present dangers, therefore almond milk may not be the best choice for them.
4. Nutritional aspects where Almond milk wins?
Almond milk, however, has a number of advantages. Because it is naturally lactose-free, people who are allergic to dairy products or who have lactose intolerance can use it. Almond milk, being low in calories and saturated fat, has been shown to help with weight management and heart health. It is also enriched with vitamins D and E, which are vital for healthy bones and a strong immune system. It can be used in a variety of baked and cooked recipes, and drinks because of its nutty flavour and creamy texture. Furthermore, because it uses less water and produces fewer greenhouse gases than dairy milk, almond milk is better for the environment. Almond milk is a sustainable and nutrient-dense option for those looking for plant-based milk substitutes.
The takeaway
Consumers should carefully consider these concerns and assess their dietary and environmental priorities prior to making the move to almond milk. Almond milk might provide certain advantages, but it’s important to make decisions based on information that supports both environmental principles and individual health objectives. People may make thoughtful choices that improve the environment and their own health by investigating a variety of plant-based products and encouraging sustainable eating habits.
