As lactose intolerance is increasingly becoming a problem, many people are looking for milk alternatives to add to their diet. Milk alternatives often include rice milk, soya milk and almond milk. The benefits of adding almond milk to your diet include the fact that it not only tastes great, but almond milk is also extremely healthy and very good for you. It is an excellent source of unsaturated fat (which is the good type), it contains good levels of vitamins and minerals, and may even help with weight loss
Almond Milk Nutrition Facts
High in protein and omega fatty acids, almond milk contains no cholesterol or saturated fat, and has high levels of vitamin E, zinc, magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron. Other benefits of almond milk are that it only contains 70 calories for eight fluid ounces. Although it has no fiber, almond milk is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, so ideal for anyone following a low carbohydrate diet. Studies have also shown almonds can help with weight loss if they are eaten in moderation.
The Benefits of Almond Milk for Bone Health
Almond milk contains excellent levels of calcium, magnesium and vitamin D. These all work together to help prevent osteoporosis as we get older. Several studies have shown the importance of taking these supplements together to counteract the effects of bone degeneration as we age. Some recent research also suggests these three in combination may also be a factor in preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
Almond Milk Recipe
Making your own almond milk is easy and only takes a few minutes. Put one cup of raw almonds in a jar and pour in four cups of water. Keep in the fridge for a day and then transfer to a blender and blend until it forms a smooth consistency. Using cheesecloth, strain the liquid into a bowl. You can keep the pulp for cereals or for adding to muffins and to other recipes.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance affects both adults and children but is more common in Native Americans, those of Asian, African, and South American origin than among people of European descent. Symptoms can include bloating, stomach pain or cramps, gas, diarrhea or vomiting. In some rare cases, newborn infants can have a lactose intolerance
References:
Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2003 Nov;27(11):1365-72. Almonds vs complex carbohydrates in a weight reduction program. Wien MA, Sabaté JM, Iklé DN, Cole SE, Kandeel FR..
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