by Eileen Eva

Created on: September 24, 2010

Did you know that almond milk is extracted from almonds? Of course you know! This extract is beneficial for those with lactose allergies. Almond milk can be consumed through drinking and also used in food preparations. In the early ages, almond milk was used in Medieval Europe and the Middle East. Almond nutrition facts include treating constipation and lowering blood sugar. These and other benefits of almond can be obtained by drinking almond milk.

Almond milk is lactose free. This is the sugar that is found in cow’s milk. Most people are allergic to lactose. Consumption of cow’s milk may cause diarrhoea, bloating and abdominal discomfort. Almond milk is extracted from almond nuts and can be substituted everywhere cow’s milk is used, whether as a beverage or for food preparation.    

It can be made from home and its purity retained. Homemade almond milk is made without much effort and is stored without adding preservatives and additives. This simply means that it is 100% pure.  Because of this fact, production of almond milk is on the rise in most homes in comparison to cow’s milk. Cow’s milk becomes allergic and toxic because cows are injected with growth hormones and antibiotics which can also cause certain types of cancer.

Almond milk is also packed with nutrients. Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, protein, magnesium, manganese, zinc, selenium, iron, fiber, calcium and phosphorous. Almond milk is full of flavonoids that lower LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol. Powerful antioxidants in the body are ensured by high Vitamin E contained in almond milk. Antioxidants are known to inhibit the growth free radicals that cause cancer.  

Unlike milk from animals, almond milk contains a wide range of vital nutrients and need not to be fortified with vitamins or minerals. It has no saturated fats, cholesterol, and its levels of calories are low making it very healthy, especially to those trying to lose weight and will keep them fit.  

Most people prefer it to rice and soy milk because of its great taste, meaning that, you will drink more and enjoy the health benefits of almond milk.  

Although loaded in nutrients, almond milk is unsuitable for babies. In layman terms, almond milk should not be substituted for breast milk. Almond milk doesn’t have the adequate nourishment required for a baby. If a baby is allergic to lactose, consult a doctor to suggest what will be the best substitute.  

Take caution that almond nuts also contain a substance called goitrogens that suppresses thyroid gland functionality by interfering with iodine up-take. Bitter almond nuts have been cautioned against. This is because when blended with water, they release poisonous chemical called cyanide.

If you do not want to have bland almond nuts, you can add them in some vanilla or chocolate drink to make it yummier. 

To make almond milk at home, search Helium.com for Recipes: Almond milk.

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