Are almond milk shakes and smoothies a good idea?

We all know how beneficial eating a handful of soaked almonds every single day is. Most of us learned it from our mothers and grandmothers who without fail gave us a handful of almonds before we headed to school in our childhood. If not, they would end up in our tiffin’s. Almonds are full of antioxidants, protein, minerals, vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats. They are known to reduce the risk of heart diseases and certain cancers, protect against oxidative stress by reducing the damage caused to your cells, help improve your cholesterol levels, and even regularize blood sugar. This is exactly why we need to consume this healthy nut every single day. 

The best way to consume almonds is to have a handful of them every morning or as a snack in between meals. But if you want to up the number of almonds you consume every day to reap its health benefits, try almond milk. Badam milk benefits are the same as regular almonds (sometimes it is fortified with even more nutrients). The easiest way to consume badam milk is to add it to whatever you would otherwise add regular milk to. From your morning cuppa coffee or tea or your post-workout protein shakes and chocolate smoothies. If you prefer eating clean and don’t like adding or consuming too many processed ingredients in your daily diet, there’s no need to worry. Simply opt for a clean almond milk brand that offers unsweetened and organic almond milk. You can then add it to your green smoothies, ice creams, desserts, etc. Almond milk also boasts of a nice subtle nutty flavor that brings character to whatever dish or drinks you add it to. 

To sum it up, yes almond milk smoothies and shakes are a great option for everyone, whether you live a healthy lifestyle or want to make small healthy changes to your daily diet and up your nutritional intake. 

Try these yummy almond milk flavors

Are you planning on making positive life changes like eating healthy and whole foods? Or maybe you have a strong intolerance and develop digestive issues when you consume animal milk? Either way, you are probably on the lookout for a healthy milk alternative. Animal milk has some pretty terrible health effects on people. This is why you need to make a switch to a healthier, plant-based option like almond milk. Not only is animal safe to consume by people suffering from lactose intolerance, but the benefits of almond milk are also pretty impressive too. 

If you are new to the world of almond milk, the best way to include it in your diet is to have fun with all the yummy almond milk flavors out there. While almond milk can be a great alternative to animal milk in your daily tea, coffee, and cereal, it can also be a fun “anytime drink” to sip on thanks to the myriad of enticing almond milk flavors available these days. If you like fruity drinks, then you’ll find quite a few brands selling strawberry almond milk. For those of you who love tropical fruits, you’ll easily find mango almond milk as well. Store these almond milk packs in the refrigerator and pull one out to have on a hot day for the perfect pick me up. Unlike dairy milk almond milk doesn’t have an overpowering taste, so it goes pretty well with most fruit flavors. No need to fret all you chocolate fiends, there’s always chocolate almond milk packs for you. For those of you who rather stick to a classic flavor, try out vanilla almond milk. It’s perfect on its own or you can mix it into other flavors as well.

The great thing about these readymade flavored almond milk packs is that you can easily freeze them into popsicle molds for fun almond milk pops. Alternatively, you can also make quick shakes and smoothies with this flavored almond milk. 

The Best Non-Dairy Alternatives To Milk.

Regular cow’s milk is probably a staple part of most of our diets. Either used in tea or coffee, poured into cereals, used in cooking and baking, or even drank as a beverage. Even though it’s a popular choice for most people, as it \ boasts an incredibly rich nutritional profile loaded with vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus – some may have dietary restrictions (veganism for health or ethical reasons), personal preferences (prefer the alternatives over regular milk) or health-related restrictions (lactose intolerance or allergies), which does not let them consume regular milk. But fortunately, there are loads of alternatives in the market that exist, whether your preferences are it’s non-dairy or completely vegan.

Your non-dairy alternatives include –

Almond Milk

A popular and widely consumed alternative is almond milk. Made with real ground up almonds and water, giving it a crisp nutty flavour. Aka, Badam milk benefits include a ton of nutrients in the form of vitamins and minerals, but not very high on protein. Hence it is consumed for its low-calorific nature. With the rich goodness and health benefits that almonds already have, almond milk manages to retain it all. You can buy almond milk at any general store due to its growing popularity and demand.

Soy Milk

Another quite popular and widely consumed alternative – Soy milk has been around for decades with its nutrition profile closely resembling that of cow’s milk. Considered the best high-protein milk alternative as it offers about 7 grams of protein per cup, compared to cow milk’s 8 grams per cup. The alternative is also loaded with calcium and vitamin D along with flavoured varieties such as vanilla, and also comes in lighter and lower-calorie versions.

Coconut Milk

The newest addition to the market, coconut milk is made from adding water to the white flesh of brown coconuts, maintaining a light consistency. Not to be confused with the dense coconut milk you use already for cooking. This one’s a more diluted version, consumed mainly as a beverage for its health benefits as a regular milk alternative. Both naturally creamy and sweet in nature, it contains one-third the calories of cow’s milk, half the fat and significantly less protein and carbohydrates. It is rich in saturated fat. Hence, it’s mainly consumed by people looking to reduce their carb intake, as some studies suggest it also reduces your appetite and assists weight loss.

Oat Milk

Quite similar to almond milk, simply oat milk is a combination of oats and water. Manufacturers also add oils and salt to produce a desirable taste and texture. Unlike unsweetened almond milk, oat milk itself is naturally sweet in nature, and hence it can be used in cooking and in making your milkshakes and smoothies. Closely resembling cows milk in both taste and nutritional value also helps its cause. Other benefits include its high in protein and fibre content, but also high in calories and carbohydrates. Oat milk also contains beta-glucan, which assists in lowering your cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Almond Milk in India – Overview and Benefits

Now-a-days, non-dairy milk and plant-based milks are used as great substitutes for cow’s milk. This is now a fast-growing new division of food industry. Many persons are shifting to plant-based milks as alternatives for dairy milk due to disliking of cow’s milk, lactose intolerance, dairy product allergy, calorie concerns, diet for weight loss, change to vegan diets and many more reasons.

Over the last decade, there has been a great demand in the food industry for development. The demands for healthy foods have been at peak as people are shifting to healthier food lifestyles. Increasing urbanization has spiked up this demand especially in the food beverage industry as beverages are no longer sought as thirst quenchers but are a part of their meal and healthy lifestyle.

Almond Milk:

A vital element of a healthy lifestyle currently includes consumption of nuts and dried fruits. Majority of the nut consumption is contributed by almonds. Almond contains many nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins, especially Vitamin E. One such style of plant-based milk prepared from nuts is almond milk. Almond milk is prepared by blending of water and almonds and this is a great alternative to dairy milk. Almond milk is a great saviour for people who are lactose intolerant, following vegan diet and for those who are allergic to dairy products.

Almond Milk India:

In India, vegan diet is currently gaining attention and is being sought by people. Apart from vegan diets, many persons are looking out for healthy food habits for reduction of weight and weight management. Almond milk has caught the attention of these people and is now being used as a substitute for dairy milk by many in India.

Almond milk in India is locally called as badam milk. Badam milk is beneficial for betterment of skin, hair and health. The following are the benefits of badam milk.

Badam Milk Benefits:

Badam milk is cholesterol free and contains saturated fat. It is also lactose-free and suitable for people who are allergic to dairy products and those who are lactose intolerant. Badam milk can be used for preparing protein drinks as well as preparing other food items as an alternative for cow’s milk. Badam milk also is very effective for improving and increasing the immunity. It contains Riboflavin which helps in easy digestion by converting the carbohydrates in our body into energy. It also prevents anaemia as it contains iron.

  • It is a natural source of Vitamin E and other nutrients and thereby it is good for health.
  • It is a low-calorie beverage and therefor helps in weight loss and weight management.
  • It contains less calories and can be consumed daily.
  • It helps in preventing and managing diabetes.
  • It is beneficial for the heart as it contains Vitamin A and Vitamin E.
  • It is good for the bones as it contains Vitamin D and calcium.
  • It contains Vitamin D and Vitamin E which provides immunity and strength and helps to fight against diseases.
  • It contains Riboflavin and is good for the eyes as riboflavin helps in overcoming eye problems like cataracts.
  • The Vitamin E present in the badam milk is effective in preventing cancer.
  • It also helps to relieve insomnia as it contains tryptophan which is effective in relieving sleeplessness.

These are few benefits of Badam milk.

Why Is Almond Milk Beneficial To Kids?

Almond milk is the most popular plant milk. It is rich in several healthful nutrients. Almond milk is made by blending almonds with water and then straining the mixture to remove the solids. You can also make it by adding water to almond butter.

It has a pleasant, nutty flavor and a creamy texture similar to that of regular milk. Badam milk benefits and nutrition values are endless. This is the only reason why it has become a popular choice for mothers whose children are allergic to cow’s milk. Almond milk is fortified with extra calcium which makes it equally healthy and nutritious as cow’s milk. Almond milk can be added into your child’s daily diet in interesting ways.

Here are some benefits of almond milk for kids:

  • Ensures a Healthy Heart

The consumption of fat is very essential for kids during their growing years. Therefore, at times, parents don’t realise but they tend to overfeed their children with fatty foods that turns out to be unhealthy.

Almond milk is low in cholesterol and saturated fat contents. This makes sure that there is no possibility of obesity in your child and helps them to maintain a healthy heart.

  • Strengthens the Bones

We all know that almond milk may not contain as much calcium as regular cow milk. However, the amount of calcium your child acquires from almond milk is quite substantial. Studies show that almond milk offers 30% of the child’s recommended daily intake of calcium along with the recommended amount of daily intake for Vitamin D, which is 25 percent. This strengthens their bones and reduces any chances of bone disorders in the future.

  • Good for Skin

Almond milk is the best source of Vitamin E in children as well as adults. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that supports skin health. In a country like India where there is so much pollution, our child’s natural and smooth skin is at risk since the very start. However, regular consumption of almond milk makes sure that your child is getting the right nutrition in order for them to have a healthy and glowing skin.

  • Increases Muscle Strength

It is absolutely critical for a child to build muscle strength in their early years. Therefore, they need to be given the right food that gives them the right amount of protein and nutrition that ensures muscle growth and development.

Almond milk only contains 1 gram of protein per serving. It also contains plenty of vitamins like iron and riboflavin. Both of these vitamins are extremely important for muscle growth and healing. Since children are often exposed to getting hurt from a regular tumble or a serious fall, the healing properties of almond milk can provide them with all the support they need.

  • Ensures Healthy Digestion

It is a known fact that children are most likely to deal with digestive issues and gut problems. Mothers often have to stress about what they consume on a regular basis as anything can trigger their digestion very easily. Most of the time, lactose is the reason why children face problems with digestion as it is too heavy. While almond milk does not contain any lactose, it offers one gram of fiber per serving, which is important as well as the best solution for a healthy digestion.

5 Most Important Things You Must Know About Almond Milk

Almond milk contains the best of the nutrients of the super-healthy almonds – vitamin E and riboflavin. However, almond milk’s nutrient level is still extremely lower than that of almonds. Yet, depending on the vitamin and mineral content of almond milk, it comes with a number of benefits most of you might not be aware of. Let’s talk about these benefits of almond milk

Non-dairy/ lactose-free – As you might already know – almond milk is dairy-free, which makes it a good alternative to milk for people with lactose intolerances as well as those who find it difficult to digest milk. Did you know? Almost 75% of the world’s population suffers from lactose intolerance. However, they still need a rich source of nutrition that doesn’t come with any side effects. Thus, people switch to almond milk –  for the goodness of almonds and milk. Moreover, it is also a very good options for vegans and vegetarians to catch on their lost nutrition.

Heart-healthy – According to the American Heart Association, almond milk is cholesterol-free, which makes it good for your heart. Substituting nuts for saturated fats plays a major role reducing 45 percent of the estimated risk of any heart disease.

Low-calorie – One of the best badam milk benefits is that it is known for being the most ideal choice for the dieters. It has a very strong impact on the calorie-watchers because of its 30-60 calories per cup content. Combining almonds with a low-calorie, high-monounsaturated fat diet plays a major role in ensure absolute success in your weight loss plans. It is as good as a low-calorie diet with lots of complex carbohydrates.

Riboflavin – Almonds contain riboflavin, which is also present in almond milk. Also known as Vitamin B12, Riboflavin is known for helping in effective production of the red blood cells and ideal release of the energy from the carbohydrates you eat. This is all claimed by the National Institutes of Health.

Cancer prevention – A study published in Nutrition and Cancer says that almond milk is very helpful in suppressing prostate cancer cells. Unlike cow’s milk, which “stimulated” the growth of prostate cancer cells, almond milk works otherwise and suppresses the growth of prostate cancer cells by more than 30 percent. It has zero effect on the breast cancer cells.

There are a number of almond milk brands available in the market, each claiming to be better than the other. It is important to buy almond milk after checking all the ingredients that it is made with. Almond milk comes with multiple benefits, and most of its benefits are unheard of. Thanks to its nutritious value, almond milk makes for a good addition to your everyday diet. It is not only ideal for adults but also for kids. It strengthens their bones and keeps their immunity strong all day. Moreover, it is also rich in Vitamin E, which is ideal for keeping your skin bright and beautiful. So, choose your almond milk brand with care because you definitely cannot go wrong with this.

Why Are People Shifting to Almond Milk?

Yes, you heard it right. People across the world are ditching dairy milk to plant-based milk and the reasons are varying. Some do it for the planet, some do it for animals and some simply do it because they’re onto a new healthy diet routine. But is it just a fad? Or are there actual benefits behind it?

Now we all know that milk is one of the most important sources of nutrition for a growing body. Even for most adults, milk is one of their basic food necessities. However, none other than humans rely on dairy milk after the initial growth stages. So why not shift to plant-based milk instead? You will not be exploiting animals and will be reducing the carbon footprint as well.

Compared to cow milk, the badam milk benefits are almost better in every aspect except for concentration of calcium and protein. Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E, badam milk ensures your skin gets the treatment it deserves and thus reduces the signs of ageing. With a very low concentration of saturated fats and calories, say goodbye to that excess weight you never wanted. The only fats they contain are the ones that your heart requires to keep beating healthy. The lack of protein and calcium can be offset by consumption of other protein rich foods. For vegans and lactose intolerant people, there is no better alternative and for people switching to a healthy lifestyle, you’re also gaining a distinctive tasty flavour for all your coffee, tea, milkshake requirements.

When you buy almond milk, make sure you read the packaging carefully. Some packaged badam milk comes fortified with calcium so that you do not miss your daily dose. Badam milk is a healthy alternative for adults; however, it is not advised to use it for babies. Please consult your doctor before switching your baby’s milk variety.

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.

Chocolate Banana Ice cream made in Unsweetened Almond Milk

Unsweetened Almond milk is low in calories and fat, making it a great base for a number of dishes. Its neutral flavour with a hint of nuttiness and creamy mouthfeel lends itself well to soups, sauces, dressings, baked goods, and smoothies.

It’s blazing hot outside and we all need something to cool down. A healthy ice cream is the perfect option to beat the heat without adding those pounds. Make a healthy Chocolate Banana Ice Cream with frozen bananas, cacao powder, almond milk and almond butter. It’s mouth-watering, healthy, dairy-free and is quick and easy!

Healthy Chocolate Banana Ice Cream

INGREDIENTS

  • 3 frozen bananas, chopped into big pieces
  • 1/4 cup almond milk (unsweetened chocolate or vanilla)
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1/2 – 1 tablespoon cacao powder (or cocoa powder)
  • 1/2 tablespoons cacao nibs or chocolate chips (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Place bananas, almond milk, almond butter and cocoa powder into a food processor or a blender.

Pulse/process until smooth and creamy. You may need to turn off the motor and stir the mixture a couple times while processing.

Add in cacao nibs or chocolate chips (if using) and mix once more. Spoon ice cream into a bowl and enjoy! If you want to be able to scoop the ice-cream you can place it in the freezer for 2 hours so it’s solid enough to scoop.

Almond milk or badam milk benefits people who are lactose intolerant, vegan or are finding ways to shed weight. There is no cholesterol or saturated fat in almond milk. It is low in sodium and high in healthy fats (such as omega fatty acids, typically found in fish), which helps to prevent high blood pressure and heart disease. Almond milk offers 30 percent of the recommended daily amount of Calcium and 25 percent of the needed amount of vitamin D, reducing your risk for arthritis and osteoporosis and improving your immune system leading to work together to provide healthy bones and teeth formation.

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.