Like soy milk, almond milk is prepared by blending almonds with water until smooth, then straining the mixture to separate the liquid from the pulp. Does almond milk offer advantages comparable to other types of milk?
The texture of almond milk resembles that of cow’s milk, with a creamier mouthfeel and a pleasantly savory taste. It’s popular among people who follow vegetarian diets, are watching their calorie intake, or are intolerant to cow’s milk.
You can easily find almond milk in supermarkets, but it’s also simple to make at home. For health purposes, choose unsweetened almond milk.
Almond Milk Is Rich in Vitamin E
While almond milk isn’t as nutrient-dense as cow’s milk overall, its nutritional content of almond milk shouldn’t be overlooked. Compared with cow’s milk, almond milk provides more vitamin E.
Almond Milk Is Suitable for People with Diabetes
Unsweetened almond milk contains more fat and protein relative to carbohydrates. This balance helps prevent sharp rises in blood sugar, so it can be appropriate for people with diabetes.
(*Note: prepared without added sugar.)
Almond Milk Works for Lactose Intolerance
Those with lactose intolerance can still enjoy the flavor of almond milk. Because it is naturally lactose-free, it doesn’t trigger bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort.
Almond Milk May Support Heart Health
As reported by MedicalNewsToday, research has identified an association between a lower risk of heart disease and almond milk consumption. Oleic acid, the predominant fat in almond milk, may help promote better blood flow.
Researchers also suggest that the favorable cholesterol profile linked with almond milk could help reduce blockages and plaque buildup in blood vessels.
Almond Milk Is Lower in Phosphorus and Potassium
People with kidney problems are often advised to avoid milk high in phosphorus and potassium because impaired kidneys cannot clear these minerals efficiently, raising the risk of buildup in the bloodstream.
Almond milk contains less phosphorus and potassium than cow’s milk. Per 240 ml, cow’s milk provides about 233 mg of phosphorus and 366 mg of potassium, whereas almond milk has roughly 20 mg of phosphorus and 160 mg of potassium in the same serving.
Almond Milk Fits Many Eating Patterns
Even if you’re on a calorie-conscious plan, almond milk can be adapted into your menu. Because it’s lower in calories than cow’s milk, it works in cakes, ice cream, smoothies, or as a refreshing drink on its own.
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- dr Hanifa Rahma
Krans B. Comparing Milks: Almond, Dairy, Soy, Rice, and Coconut (2020). Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/milk-almond-cow-soy-rice#almond-milk.
Mandl E. 9 Science-Based Health and Benefits of Almond Milk (2017). Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/almond-milk-health-benefits.
Arnarson A. 7 benefits of almond milk (2020). Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318612#how-to-make.