It has recently been outselling soy milk and linked to a variety of health benefits. Here’s why you should be drinking almond milk instead of dairy.
What’s the Problem with Milk?
If you’re not vegan, is there anything wrong with popping some milk into your morning coffee? According to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health, experts found that since dairy contains high levels of saturated fats, it is better substituted with other calcium sources, such as baked beans or collards.
Milk also contains synthetic hormones. An example is recombinant bovine growth hormones (rBGH), given to cows to boost their milk production. rBGH contains an ingredient called IGF-1 that can cause powerful endocrine and metabolic effects, such as cell replication and cell growth. Scientists say that this hormone does not get broken down upon human consumption. Rather, it is absorbed into the blood.
If that puts you off milk, consider non-dairy milks that have been gaining popularity. Almond milk is an example. Here are some reasons why it’s good for you:
1. There’s No Lactose
There is no problem digesting almond milk because it doesn’t contain any lactose, which is sugar found in cow’s milk. If you’re lactose intolerant, then almond milk is a good substitute.
2. It’s Low in Calories
Almond milk is lower in calories than regular milk. One cup of almond milk contains approximately 40 calories, whereas whole milk contains 140 calories.
3. It’s Packed with Nutrients
Almonds contain so many vital nutrients, such as potassium, iron, protein and Vitamin E. The milk contains no cholesterol – it has actually been said to lower levels of LDL (or bad) cholesterol in the body because of its monounsaturated fats.
4. It Makes Your Skin Glow
Who doesn’t love milk that can give you gorgeous skin? Since it contains half of the recommended daily Vitamin E you need, almond milk is really good for your skin and can protect it against harmful sun damage.
5. It’s Safer than Soy
Although soy milk used to be quite popular, it has taken a step down from its throne. This is largely linked to fears over its content. According to Dr. Oz, many soy milk types that are available on the market are actually processed, meaning that they have not been made with real soy beans.
But there’s more: in the United States, 94 per cent of soy milk is genetically modified. It’s no wonder that in the U.S., almond milk is regarded as the number one alternative to regular milk.
Although almond milk has more sodium than soy milk, it wins first place due to its naturally occurring nutrients and lack of saturated fats.
With all the great almond milk benefits, what about its taste? Nutty and sweet, you can drink it in your tea, coffee or smoothies. Or add it to your favourite recipes. For some great ideas, check out Food and Wine.
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