Are You A Morning Person Or Not?

Drinking milk has been an essential part of our growing years. Waking up every morning to a glass of the regular while you dread having it and you’re forced by your mom anyway? That is a childhood memory most of us will never forget. However, as we grow as adults it became our least favourite thing to drink because of various reasons. Milk has never been the go-to drink for most of us but on the contrary it holds properties that will help you for a lifetime. Milk infused with different flavours and ingredients now has made it “less boring” to drink. One very healthy & tasty ingredient that can be added to milk, to make it tasty and healthy with no added preservatives or extra sugar is Almonds. Almond milk is a delicious plant-based that is made of ground almonds. It has a creamy texture and a nutty flavour.

Almond milk is also high in calcium. It’s nutritious, made with 3 simple ingredients and ready in just 20 minutes. Almond milk is also very light and cholesterol-free. In India, almond milk is not as widely used and recognised. It is a popular alternative for people who follow a vegan diet, are lactose intolerant or are allergic to dairy. It is a great alternative to regular milk options for regular milk drinkers to reduce their sugar intake through milk because of its natural flavour. Almond milk in India is still a growing concept. So for all you looking for a healthier, easier & tasty alternative to the regular, Almond milk is just the thing for you! It’s time for a change. For parents and elders, Almond milk is a very good substitute. Maybe it’s time you turn into your mom and don’t take no for an answer!

Healthy Almond Milk Recipes

We often wonder why people with diabetes choose unsweetened almond milk over regular dairy milk. It is because of the simple reason being that almond milk contains less carbs compared to any other milk. It is the best alternative for diabetics or any person who is on a sugar free/ low carb/ low calorie diet. Even fitness freaks who go to the gym daily in order to build their body consume almond milk protein shakes post their workouts. Almond milk has so many benefits that everyone can and must make it a part of their diet: from 1 year old kids to old, aged people. Following are a few and most important ones:

  • ●      Low in calories
  • ●      Low in sugar
  • ●      High in Vitamin E
  • ●      Good source of calcium
  • ●      Lactose free

While consuming almond milk in its unsweetened form is the most effective and healthy way, some people prefer flavoured almond milk too. You can have almond milk by itself or use it to prepare other healthy dishes. Given below are some interesting ways in which you can use unsweetened almond milk:

  • ●      Peanut Butter Protein Pancakes

What you need:

  1. 1.     40 grams rolled oats
  2. 2.     100 ml unsweetened almond milk
  3. 3.     30 gms peanut butter
  4. 4.     15 grams baking powder
  5. 5.     2 eggs

How to prepare:

Mix all the dry ingredients separately followed by the wet ingredients. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk thoroughly. Fry the mixture on a pan and top it with your favourite fresh fruits like strawberries, blackberries or blueberries.

  • ●      Masala Haldi Badam Milk

Haldi Milk (Turmeric Milk) has various benefits and it is often consumed at night in order to get a peaceful sleep.

What you need:

  1. 1.     1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
  2. 2.     1 stick of cinnamon
  3. 3.     1 tsp of grated fresh ginger
  4. 4.     A pinch of black pepper
  5. 5.     ½ tsp of turmeric
  6. 6.     A pinch of cardamom
  7. 7.     1 tbsp of honey

How to prepare:

Add all the ingredients into a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Mix it well. Strain it if required and enjoy!

  • ●      Green Smoothie Bowl

What you need:

  1. 1.     Unsweetened almond milk
  2. 2.     Spinach
  3. 3.     Celery
  4. 4.     Frozen mango
  5. 5.     Frozen pineapple
  6. 6.     Greek yogurt
  7. 7.     Honey
  8. 8.     Chia seeds
  9. 9.     Flax seeds

How to prepare:

Blend all the above ingredients in a blender and your base is ready. Top it with some coconut shavings, granola and dark chocolate of your choice.

  • ●      Chia Pudding

If you are looking for some breakfast inspiration, then you can’t go wrong with a simple and healthy chia pudding. Chia is a superfood that is high in protein and loaded with health benefits. The following recipe is a chia base to which you can add any favourite toppings of your choice.

What you need:

  1. 1.     1.5 cups of unsweetened almond milk
  2. 2.     ½ cup chia seeds
  3. 3.     1 tsp of maple syrup
  4. 4.     1 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare:

In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk and vanilla extract. Cover and leave it overnight in the fridge. Give it a good stir in the morning and it is ready to go. Add maple syrup to sweeten the mixture.

Topping Suggestions: (Optional) – Mint leaves, fresh fruits like banana or strawberries, chopped nuts, greek yogurt, coconut shavings, peanut butter

The Blessing Named Almond Milk

Since a very young age, children are told why having a glass of milk daily is important and what benefits it will bring with itself. In addition to this, they are also giving a lot of dry fruits to eat so that they get some added strength and nutrition for themselves as a part of their daily diet. One of the most important of these dry fruits is almond. Almond has been known to be the most popular superfoods for people of all age. Be it a young baby or be it a 50-year-old adult. Almond is a perfect example of small package that makes a big difference. It has something for everybody in it. For younger kids, it might be a little difficult to eat the hard almonds by chewing, even if they are soaked overnight. Therefore, they can be given almond through milk.

Now you might add almonds crushed, directly in the milk or you might have the good almond milk protein itself. Many brands today are introducing almond milk that is suitable for the small children as well. One cannot rule out the immense benefits of almond milk proteins we know of. For those who are highly calorie conscious, almond milk is the perfect fit for them. Why? Because almond milk does not possess a lot of calories. Since it is low in sugar and carbs, almond milk very easily fits into their daily routine. Almond milk comes as a blessing for those people who are lactose intolerant especially if they are a fan of tea and coffee with milk. They can now enjoy their favourite beverage by adding almond milk in it. even for those who opt for the vegan lifestyle, almond milk proves to be a great alternative for people who want to have foods that require milk.

Why Choose Almond Milk Over Cow Milk

We all know that milk is full of proteins and nutrients. It is the first food that a baby takes, and it helps in their growth and development. The calcium present in milk promotes bone growth and milk is considered important for health sustainability. However, milk also contains unsaturated fats which are detrimental for health. Regular intake of milk allows accumulation of fats in your body. If you are planning on weight loss, replacing cow milk with other varieties of milk is recommended.

Benefits of almond milk nutrition are as follows:

  1. Less sugar and calories. Compared to cow milk, almond milk has comparatively less sugar and calories making it healthier for your body and growth.
  2. The presence of Vitamin E in almond milk helps in rejuvenating the skin. A daily intake not only keeps the skin supple but also enriches skin growth. A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin E fights inflammation in the body and helps protect against cancer and other heart diseases.
  3. With a steady intake of potassium present in the milk, you can keep your blood pressure at a normal rate.

Keep in mind though that many processed almond milks contain additives such as gums, sugar, and other emulsifiers. The emulsifiers are added to maintain texture and consistency and considered safe; however, it should not be consumed in high amounts. Please go through the packaging label if you are buying processed milk. To completely avoid these additives, go for the unflavoured version. If you are following a specific or restricted diet, choose the one which is fortified with Vitamin D and high in calcium.

For people suffering from lactose intolerance, it is the best alternative. Lactose intolerance can cause different painful symptoms and hence dairy products are a complete no-no. When choosing a dairy milk alternative for a child, choose almond milk that is fortified with calcium. This helps in bone growth and healthy development of a growing child.

All these and more. The nutty, crispy flavour of the milk is a welcome alternative for various food recipes. It can also replace traditional milk in your cup of coffee or milk for that extra delight. If you’re on a health-conscious plan and plan to reduce your sugar intake, unsweetened almond milk is your best friend.

For an adult, if you are wondering whether it is a viable alternative for milk in your diet, fear not. You can use almond milk for almost anything. Some of these include:

  • Cereals
  • Coffee/Tea
  • Baking & Cooking
  • Soups and sauces
  • Yogurts & Ice creams

If you are not bothered about calcium intake and take calcium through other sources, you can make your own almond milk. Just soak almond overnight and drain the water before use. Add the almonds to a blender along with fresh water and any additives such as vanilla or cocoa powder. Pulse for 2-3 minutes until the almonds are finely ground. Transfer the contents into a nut milk bag and squeeze out all the liquid into a bowl. Voila, your homemade almond milk is ready.

Dairy or Vegan? Here Is How You Can Pick

There has always been a war between dairy milk India and almond milk India. Of course, most people prefer the traditional method that involves dairy as it is more cost-effective and has been used for ages now. Some even believe for it to be more nutritional and hence do not call quits on it.

However, people across the globe have been raving about the benefits of becoming vegan and switching to plant-based beverages such as almond milk, soy milk, protein milk, etc. Some even try to fuse both, dairy and almond together thus creating dairy milk almond.

Research implies that plant-based milk i.e. soy milk, almond milk, protein milk, etc. is better for consumption in many ways owing to its many health benefits such as lactose-free, cholesterol free, zero cholesterol, essential vitamins and minerals, etc. However, the key highlight here is that it is cruelty free which means that no animals were harmed during the secretion of this milk. Very few of us know this but dairy milk contains the hormones of cows. They are also tortured heavily during the process of milking which makes it animal cruelty. Many social organisations are thus against the consumption of dairy milk and dairy products as the same can be obtained from its alternatives at home. Yes, almond milk or any other plant-based beverage is easy to make at home. It is lower in calories, more hygienic and comes with a mild, nutty taste. It is also lighter and smoother than dairy.

Dairy on the other hand provides one with healthy teeth and bones. It is also simpler in taste and thicker than plant-based milk. It thus gives better texture and fluffiness to milk products like cheese, yoghurt, cottage cheese, etc. making them more edible and appealing in taste.

We hope the above information has been helpful to make you choose your switch.

 

Does Almond Milk Help Lose Weight?

Almond-milks-middle-new-2With regards to plant-based milk choices, almond milk is all over a top choice. It is a direct result of its light, nutty flavor, or possibly because it is normally lower in calories and a good replacement for dairy milk.  Almond milk is really easy to make by yourself at home with just a few items. Soak the desired number of almonds overnight and then blend them with water. The outcome? A light, yet smooth refreshment loaded up with nutty goodness. But why go under so much trouble when you can shop almond milk? Almond Milk India makes sure that they are available commercially and have a longer shelf life. Life just got easier.

Almond milk is rich in different nutrients, almond milk has different benefits and one of them is helping in controlling weight. For vegan people, utilize almond milk to help attain that dream weight and get the perfect toned body that you have been aiming for. In any case, almond milk is low in calories and therefore a clear winner when it comes to weight loss. Almond milk has less calories than dairy milk. Dairy milk contains approximately 146 calories, whereas similar almond milk has only 30-50 calories, making it an ideal choice for weight watchers. This makes almond milk an incredible choice for individuals attempting to get lean. Choose unsweetened almond ilk for that extra watch on losing weight as it contains minimum calories.

The sugar in almond milk is quite low. Almond milk is an excellent choice to add to your diet on the chance if you are following a keto diet, or just reducing your intake of carbohydrates. Almond milk is high in calcium, potassium, Vitamin E and Vitamin D. Each of these are useful in weight reduction as they keep the digestion quick and keep problems like bloating away.

Almond milk can be consumed in many ways. Add it in your breakfast smoothies, make your Indian dessert in almond milk for that additional twist and we are sure you are going to stay full for long. Almond milk shake works for an amazing evening drink, beats the heat and provides you will all the nutrition to aim for the ideal body.

How Healthy Is Almond Milk?

Starting your day right is essential. A healthy breakfast is about not binging on a muffin or croissants or fried foods. Instead it is about filling up your tummy with loads of protein, fibre, fruits, and vegetables. Adding almond milk to that diet plan is a good idea. It helps maintain a well-balanced diet along with reducing certain disease risks like heart diseases or cancer. Almond milk is a very new concept compared to dairy milk. The benefits are quite unknown to people. It helps lactose intolerants overcome nausea and allergies. Since generations, we Indians know the importance of almonds and is quite an essential in our diets. But what about badam milk benefits?

Keep a check on your calories

Replacing low-fat dairy milk or soy milk with almond milk helps decrease your all-out calorie intake, which can assist you with accomplishing or maintaining a solid body weight. A cup of unsweetened almond milk contains as not many as 30 calories, and 1 cup of ordinary almond milk contains around 60 calories. Skim milk and soy milk each contain around 80 calories per cup. Flavoured almond milk, like, chocolate or vanilla, may contain 90 to 120 calories for each cup whereas dairy milk contains around 160 to 180 calories per cup.

All fat is not good fat

Another advantage of having almond milk is that it contains heart-healthy-poly and monounsaturated fats. It is free from trans fats and dietary cholesterol and saturated fats. Consuming mono or polysaturated fats instead of saturated fats can help bring down your blood cholesterol levels. Except for skim milk, which is sans fat, dairy animals’ milk contains soaked fat and cholesterol.

Maintain the low-carb diet

Low-carbohydrate diets compel for weight reduction and loss. The measure of carbs found in almond milk relies upon the brand you purchase. Unsweetened almond milk contains 1 gram of starches; nonetheless, some brands with flavoured almond milk, for example, vanilla or chocolate almond milk, may contain as much as 23 grams of carbohydrates. Therefore, buy almond milk that is unsweetened to keep up with healthy times.

Nutritious Almond Milk

Almond milk is infused with nutrients and minerals to build its health value. Almond milk regularly contains supplements, for example, calcium, Vitamin A, B, D and E, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and manganese. Since the measure of nutrients and minerals in almond milk fluctuates by brand, check the nutrition facts for explicit nourishment data.

Helps reduce cancer cells

Choosing almond milk over dairy milk or soy milk may help reduce the risk to develop certain types of cancer and diseases. According to reports, cow’s milk stimulated the growth of prostate cancer cells, while almond milk suppressed prostate cancer cell growth.

Choose Almond milk with more almond content

Buy almond milk with a higher ratio of almonds than anything else. Some almond milk companies provide as low as 2 percent of almonds. The more the core ingredient i.e. almonds means more the health benefits and not a waste.

Break the Monotony With Chocolate Almond Milk

almond_fresh_3 Almond milk is a lot healthier than cow’s milk. It is lactose free, dairy-free, contains 50% more calcium than dairy milk, and is just 120 calories a serving.

Making almond milk or as our mothers would call it ‘badam milk’ is very easy. Those of us who are not in a time crunch, overnight soaking of almonds is the way to go. The almonds can take their time to soak and get all plump and double in size for blending. The more they are soaked and swollen the more amount of almond milk can be produced.

We understand that having plain almond milk may get too monotonous so why not add chocolate to it? By adding chocolate, you end up satisfying your dessert cravings as well as it makes for a healthy breakfast option. In case you find making almond milk at home a tedious task, you may shop them online as well as in supermarkets around you. There are several brands selling sweetened and unsweetened almond milk. If you want to make chocolate almond milk; you can add chocolate to the almond milk or add 1/4 cup cocoa or cacao powder and 2-3 dates for sweetness during the blending process.

Chocolate almond milk makes sure you get a good dose of key vitamins and minerals that support strong bones and other aspects of your health along with a tinge of chocolate. Almond milk delivers about one-quarter of the 400 international units of vitamin D you need daily. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and promotes a healthy immune system. A cup of chocolate almond milk supplies half of the daily value of vitamin B-12, which helps your body make red blood cells and supports the health of your central nervous system. That same amount of almond milk also supplies half of the daily value of vitamin E, which takes care of your cells from damaging and helps your body use vitamin K efficiently. A cup of chocolate almond milk has 17 grams of sugar, and a cup of the original contains 7 grams. Therefore, make your health your priority with almond milk.

Health Benefits of Drinking Almond Milk

Almond milk is obtained from almonds and is a plant-based milk. Almond milk has a naturally creamy texture and nutty flavor. Amongst the many benefits of almond milk, it has zero lactose and is very low on cholesterol. It is also available in unsweetened varieties for individuals who are watching their calories. Almond milk has been used as a substitute for dairy milk since years but is now more readily available and is also easy to make. Almonds provide more nutrients than dairy milk and can be consumed by individuals who cannot tolerate lactose or have any kind of allergies or those of who are vegan.

Almond milk has several health benefits. Let’s look at them individually below.

Controls/Lowers Blood Pressure – Research shows that almond milk helps in maintaining and lowering blood pressure. Almond milk serves as the best alternative to soy milk or dairy milk because all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are found in soy and dairy milk are also found in almond milk. The vitamins in almond milk keep the flow of blood healthy which contributes to regulating blood pressure.

Heart Health – A healthy heart means a lower level of cholesterol and since almond milk has no cholesterol it helps you keep your heart health in check. Research shows that badam milk benefits those who have heart conditions or at a risk for it. Almonds help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and also reduces the strain on the heart.

Strong Muscles – Everybody wants to build muscle mass and the consumption of certain foods speed up that process. Almond milk contains riboflavin which is a type of vitamin B and calcium which, in coordination with iron, helps to regulate muscle strength and growth. Almond milk contains protein which helps the body repair itself and maintain good health.

Kidney Health – In the human body, if calcium and potassium is found in a higher quantity than needed, it can be harmful for the kidneys. Dairy milk and soy milk have a higher amount of phosphorus and potassium. Almond milk, however, has limited amounts of phosphorus and potassium, which is beneficial for individuals who have chronic or acute kidney problems or even individuals who face recurring kidney stones.

Skin Care – To keep skin naturally healthy, it requires a certain number of vitamins and minerals. Almond milk is extremely good for the skin. It contains vitamin E, antioxidants, and vitamin A as well. This elixir repairs damaged skin delays the onset of wrinkles and fine lines and helps the skin repair itself as well. Moreover, home-made almond milk can be used as a skin cleanser and cleansing lotion. To see a better result, you can add rosewater to almond milk and use it as a cleanser.

Strengthens Bones and Improves Vision – Vitamin A is essential for good eye health and this is present in almond milk. It keeps your eyes healthy and nourished. It can help you avoid eye conditions and dryness. Almond milk contains calcium which is imperative for the forming and maintaining of bones and teeth in the body. Calcium also helps in regulating heart health, blood clotting and muscle health. Almond milk helps you avoid conditions like osteoporosis and can help your bones stay healthy well into old age.

How To Find The Best Almond Milk Brand?

Lately, almond milk is gaining more and more popularity as an alternative to normal traditional dairy almond milk. This healthy drink is low in sugars, calories and protein. Most of the almond milk brands make almond milk with higher calcium, vitamins and minerals content. It also provides a high antioxidant and flavonoid content and ensures the best benefits to cardiovascular health and cancer.

Apart from being healthy, almond milk is lactose and cholesterol free, which makes it the perfect switch for people who cannot consume regular milk due to various health reasons. Thanks to the long list of benefits that tag along, more and more people are jumping on board to buy almond milk that comes in a variety of tastes and uses. While some brands taste better straight out of the bottle, others taste better when used as a creamer in your beverages. Choosing the right taste and brand is one of the most difficult tasks.

Almond milk brands come with a unique taste, considering everyone has a different opinion on what tastes the best to them, thicker consistency or added flavors. This milk tastes delicious with pancakes or in a cup of coffee. Plus, it comes in a wide range of flavours – most popularly, chocolate and vanilla. Most of the almond milk brands choose to match and mix coconut, rice, and cashew flavors too.

Be it the nutty milk or mild flavoured milk, almond milk tends to delight your taste buds every time you sip on it. Almond milk is sure to make you fall in love with its savour and texture. Although finding the right almond milk is a task, it takes 1-2 trials to decide which taste you’d prefer for long term. Depending on that, you must pick the right almond milk brand and started adding it to your daily menu.