by Blah McBlah

Created on: January 21, 2008

Lower in calories, contains no cholesterol or lactose and can be used as a substitute for most recipes...its almond milk.

Almond milk is, well, a milky drink made from ground almonds and water. Almond milk can be made from home quite easily. Make as follows:

1 cup of almonds
2 cups of boiling water

Combine the almonds and water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use a blender and mix together until all the grains are absorbed. Makes about 2 cups.

Almond milk can also be bought at most commercial stores through the country and can be found in various flavors including chocolate and vanilla. Be warned though as if you consume a lot of almond milk it can become quite expensive. As stated above almond milk is lower in calories than dairy milk or soy milk (if unsweetened) and contains no cholesterol or lactose and is also usually enriched with vitamins such as Vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant linked to cancer-fighting qualities and magnesium containing even more than spinach in similar servings. Also, almonds, being a nut, are a good source for protein, fiber and monounsaturated fat which is considered healthy and beneficial.

Experts in modern apothecary state that the combination of potassium, magnesium and calcium found in almond milk makes it ideal brain food meaning that daily consumption of almond milk is recommended for enhancing and retaining memory, concentration. They also state that almond milk may help to relieve stress. There are also studies that suggest that the properties associated with almonds may help in preventing gallstones and diabetes.

When compared to other types of milk, almond milk stacks up fairly well. Health wise it may very well be the healthiest of milks and as far as taste is concerned...it's not too bad. If you are used to whole milk or 2% dairy milk, almond milk will taste very bland even if sweeteners are used. But when compared to other grain milks (rice, oats, etc) it's taste is comparable. If you find that the taste of almond milk is not palpable to your taste but still want it's benefits I have found that it is best used in conjunction with other foods, such as cereal.

In ending, although almond milk is for the lent minded, health or animal product conscious be sure not to use bitter almonds in your home made recipe...the combination of bitter almonds and water releases cyanide and apparently cyanide is not healthy. Now enjoy and bottoms up!

Learn more about this author, Blah McBlah.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.