Almond milk has become a popular, dairy-free alternative for those who prefer to go plant-based. And it has a bunch of other perks. For starters, almond milk is often enriched with nutrients like vitamin E, calcium, and vitamin D It’s also been linked to health benefits such as helping you fight against cancer and keeping your glucose levels in check, thanks to its low sugar levels.
It’s an undeniable fact that almond milk has now become a popular choice if you are dairy-free. According to Popular Science, the demand for almond milk went up by 250 percent between 2010 and 2015. However, consuming almond milk requires you to be a bit mindful because almond milk, in general, isn’t the same. Each brand will have a separate nutritional profile, and you need to pay attention to the labels on that milk carton you’ve been eyeing. UCSF Office of Sustainability explains some varieties of almond milk may cause digestive issues because of a thickening agent called carrageenan, which is something to be wary of.
But while almond milk is suitable for some, it is not a sustainable choice for others. Especially if you’re looking at giving almond milk to infants. A cup of almond milk has only one gram of protein, while a regular milk serving has eight grams of protein. Also, its benefits don’t quite stack up if you compare it to an ounce of almonds. Regular milk has six grams of protein and three grams of fiber. Incorporating almond milk into your diet comes down to your personal preferences at the end of the day. Just stay mindful and know what you’re buying the next time you head out on a grocery run!