Almond Milk

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Almond Milk is a type of plant milk made from almonds. It has a creamy texture and nutty flavor, and is often consumed by those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy. Almond milk is also popular among vegans and those following a plant-based diet.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of almond milk dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used in both culinary and medicinal contexts. It was particularly popular in the Islamic world, where it was used in a variety of dishes.

Production[edit | edit source]

Almond milk is produced by grinding almonds in a blender with water, then straining out the almond pulp with a strainer or cheesecloth. Commercial almond milk often contains additional ingredients such as sweeteners, vitamin E, and thickening agents.

Nutritional Value[edit | edit source]

Almond milk is lower in calories and fat than cow's milk, but it also has less protein. It is often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitamin D. However, it lacks the natural nutrients found in cow's milk, such as vitamin B12 and iodine.

Health Benefits[edit | edit source]

Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect the body from free radical damage. It is also often fortified with calcium, which is important for bone health. Almond milk is low in calories and sugar, making it a good option for those trying to lose weight or control their blood sugar levels.

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

The production of almond milk has been criticized for its environmental impact, as it requires a large amount of water to grow almonds. However, it still has a lower environmental impact than dairy milk, as it produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD