Is Oatmeal Good For Weight Loss
Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. Theyre a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.
How To Prepare Almond Milk
You can use almond milk in the same way as you would animal milk. Itâs available in just about any supermarket or bulk-food stores next to traditional dairy products. Store-bought almond milk is often shelf-stable until opened.
You can also make your own almond milk at home:
You can use almond milk in any recipe that calls for milk. Here are some ways to use this versatile drink:
- Drink a glass of almond milk
- Make pancakes
- Add almond milk to hot chocolate instead of animal milk
- Use almond milk in cereal
- Make homemade almond ice cream
- Add almond milk to smoothies for a protein boost
- Use almond milk as coffee creamer
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Is One Superior To The Other
When it comes to coconut milk vs. almond milk, each has its unique charm since they can be taken either fresh or cooked and baked. Basic, vanilla, and chocolate tastes of almond milk are the most common selections. Although, these will contain more added sugars. Because of its distinct coconut flavor, coconut milk is often used in savory meals like curries and sweet desserts like coconut macaroons, but not in beverages like coffee or tea.
Although coconuts have a wonderful reputation for being exotic and nourishing, collecting them for less than $1 a day is far from bliss for the underprivileged of the Philippines, Indonesia, and India. As coconut palms can only be farmed in tropical places, the desire to meet global demand is leading to worker mistreatment and the destruction of rainforests. We recommend that you only buy Fair Trade certified coconut products to avoid supporting unethical business practices.
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The Best Almond Milk Recipe
As I mentioned earlier, this almond milk recipe is the simplest and healthiest almond milk you can find. My recipe uses raw almond butter.
Of course you could always use whole almonds instead of almond butter, but you would definitely need to soak the almonds first. I have found using raw almond butter to be much easier and surprisingly tastier too.
Almond Milk IS good for you and much better than cows milk. But, we recommend using WHOLE ALMONDS and avoid the commercially processed almond milk.
- Ivy Larson
What Is A Barista Blend Almond Milk
Plant-based milks labeled as Barista Blends have been specially formulated to create an attractive foam on a cappuccino or latte. These formulation differences are often hard to notice on an ingredient list.
However, just like any store-bought product, it is best to read the ingredients if you are concerned about a specific ingredient. You can always ask to see the plant-based milk carton before ordering your favorite coffee beverage!
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The Rise Of Almond Milk
Almond milk has risen to the top of plant-based milks in terms of popularity. In 2019, sales of almond milk reached $1.3 billion, far surpassing sales of soymilk, which reached just $194 million during that time period.
The use of almond milk dates way back to the 13th century, when it was first referenced in Middle Eastern cookbooks. One reason for the use of almond milk is that nuts are acceptable to consume during fasting times, such as during Ramadan and Lent. Almond milk was first mentioned in English literature in the late 1300s.
Almond milk is made by soaking and grinding whole or blanched almonds with water. The resulting milky white liquid is then strained, removing all of the solids. Commercially made almond milk is homogenized and pasteurized for stability and shelf life. Sweeteners, sodium, protein, vitamins and thickening agents, such as carrageenan, may be added, as well. And like cows milk, almond milk can go bad, so its important to check out the use by date on the package and use the milk within seven days after opening. On a side note, almond butter can also be used to make almond milk by adding water.
Almond Dream Unsweetened Almond Drink
Ingredients: Filtered water, almonds, sunflower lecithin, tapioca starch, tricalcium phosphate, carrageenan, sea salt, gellan gum, natural flavors, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin E, vitamin D2, vitamin B12.
Almond Dream Unsweetened Almond milk contains approximately 5 almonds per one cup serving.
Reasons to avoid Almond Dream Unsweetened Almondmilk:
- Contains carrageenan
- Only a few almonds per serving
- Contains lecithin
- Thickened with highly processed gums
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Oat Milk Vs Almond Milk
Image by Canva Photos
Price
Its no secret that plant-based milks are more expensive than traditional cows milk. Their manufacturing process is longer and requires more resources. However, when you break down the different kinds and brands of non-dairy milks, they do tend to vary in price. Almond milk typically costs about $4.30 a gallon, whereas oat milk will usually be priced at just over $5 per gallon. Both kinds of milk can usually be found in a cardboard box in the pantry section of grocery stores and chilled in the dairy refrigerator section. While oat milk is more expensive, it does tend to have a longer shelf life than almond milk.
Verdict:
Almond milk is the less expensive option
Nutrition
One of the main reasons people consume milk is to make sure their bodies are getting enough calcium and protein. Both almonds and oats have some degree of natural protein, but most brands will fortify their products to add calcium. Almonds are higher in protein than oats. They also have more healthy fats and vitamin E. Oat milk does have slightly more fiber, which lends to a reasonable amount of protein. As long as whatever brand youre drinking fortifies their beverage, both oat milk, and almond milk have about the same amount of calcium. To ensure youre getting the maximum amount of nutrients possible, make sure the brand of almond milk or oat milk youre drinking is fortified.
Verdict:
Almond milk is higher in protein
Taste
Verdict:
Oat milk offers a better taste
The Issue With Almond Milk
Almond milk companies are breaking corners to create huge amounts at low costs because it takes a lot of almonds to make almond milk. Pull out your container of almond milk from the refrigerator. Your preferred brands certifications, such as kosher, gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO, may be prominently shown on their carton. You would think that because of the labelling, this is a healthy drink but youd be wrong.
Read the ingredients list on the back of your carton. Almonds and water should be all thats needed to make almond milk. The following ingredients are likely to appear on your nutrition label:
Whats the deal with all these additions if almond milk only takes two ingredients?
Almonds are used sparingly in store-bought almond milk, with just around 2% of it being manufactured with genuine almonds. To make it appear creamy, it is watered down with fillers and thickeners like carrageenan.
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Unsweetened Varieties Are Low In Sugar
The majority of individuals consume too much sugar in the form of desserts, beverages, and sweeteners. As a result, choosing naturally low-sugar foods and beverages can help you control your weight and reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases .
Many flavored and sweetened plant-based milks are available. In fact, 1 cup of chocolate-flavored almond milk might contain more than 5 teaspoons of added sugar .
Unsweetened almond milk is a terrific choice if youre looking to cut back on sugar. It has a low sugar content, with only 2 grams per cup .
Unsweetened almond milk is naturally low in sugar and high in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight disease. Sweetened almond milk, on the other hand, can be high in sugar.
So Delicious Unsweetened Almondmilk
So Delicious Unsweetened Almondmilk Ingredients: Water, almonds, calcium carbonate, vitamin E acetate, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D2, sea salt, natural flavor, sunflower lecithin, locust bean gum, gellan gum, ascorbic acid
So Delicious Unsweetened Almond milk contains approximately 4 almonds per one cup serving.
Reasons why you may want to think twice about buying So Delicious Unsweetened Almondmilk:
- Contains very few almonds per serving
- Thickened with highly processed gums
- Contains lecithin
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Unsweetened Almond Milk Nutrition
One of the reasons I like unsweetened almond milk is because of its very light. Its low carb, low calories, and a good balance between protein and fat.
The nutrition info is approximate, because some of the nutrient content gets caught in the sieve and doesnt make it to the final vanilla almond milk. This is why almond milk actually has fewer calories than the almonds that were used to make it.
To be fair, almond milk does lose many of the benefits of whole almonds just like any keto nuts that you would use for nut milk. Almond milk nutrition just cant match up to that of the original nuts. This is because we filter out most of the almonds to make the milk, and the end result is mostly water.
Even More Almond Flavors
If Silk almond milk in the morning isnt rich enough for your coffee cup, try Silk Vanilla Almond Creamer , which also comes in caramel and sweet and creamy flavors. These creamers have an obvious nutty taste with a hint of added flavors. One tablespoon has only 25 calories, 1 gram of fat and 4 grams of sugar.
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Examples Of Healthy Almond Milks:
Most almond milk found in the grocery store contains a whole list of ingredients. However, there are a few store-bought almond milks that contain minimal ingredients. Also, these healthy almond milks were made with significantly more almonds than most commercial almondmilks.
This amount of almonds in the health almonds milk is comparable to homemade almond milk. Both brands listed below have approximate 4 times more almonds than most store bought almond milks.
Both almond milk brands are more expensive than most other brands, likely because they contain more almonds. If you have the time and a good high-speed blender, consider making your own.
Wrapping Up The Almond Vs Skim Milk
Almond milk and skim milk have pros and cons, and unless you are vegan or lactose-intolerant, you might find it hard to choose between the two. Some almond milk doesnt require refrigeration, is lower in calories and has no cholesterol.
However, if you opt for sweetened, the sugar content will be higher. Skim milk contains more protein than almond milk and is naturally rich in many vitamins and minerals.
On the flip side, it has more sugar and carbohydrates than almond milk, which could be a game-changer for those on a low-carb or low-sugar diet.
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It Tastes Better Than Cows Milk
Almond milk doesnt taste like cows milk, perfect for those who are turned off by the taste. It has its own unique flavor many describe as being light and crisp. Bonus: its versatile, meaning you can use it instead of cows milk in recipes that require it. It wont have the same taste, but it will have the same consistency.
Facts About Regular Milk
1. Linked To CancerStudies have shown that the consumption of cows milk stimulates cancer cells, specifically linked with prostate cancer and ovarian cancers.
2. NutritionCows milk does provide a pretty impressive amount of nutritional value. One of the biggest dietary benefits is calcium. Calcium is very plentiful in cows milk, with 305 milligrams in just one cup. Calcium is very important for bone health, blood health, and our teeth. Choline is also found in cows milk, which is a nutrient that helps with memory, muscle development, and sleep.
3. Lactose IntoleranceLactose, which is what milk is made up of, is the most common food allergy in the world. Majority of peoples digestive systems are not able to digest lactose properly, causing upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
4. Not Meant For HumansMany people argue that cows milk is not designed for human consumption, but intended for the rapid growth of calves. This fact is supported with the evidence linking milk to serious health issues in humans. Obesity is thought to be such a problem in todays world because we are raised from birth to drink plenty of milk.
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Almond Milk May Contain Unwanted Ingredients
One driver of “clean” almond milk products, including two-ingredient liquid options and concentrated bases, is simple, recognizable ingredients. If you flip over the container on some products, you may find unwanted additivesincluding preservatives gums, such as gellan gum and oils, like sunflower oil. Pre-pandemic, I used to meet clients at their local markets and walk the aisles together to compare products and identify the best brands. Many clients were surprised to spot add-ins they didn’t expect to find in pricey almond milk. But again, there’s no standard formulation, which is why reading ingredient lists is key.
How Much Sugar Does Unsweetened Almond Milk Have
Some minerals in almond milk are not absorbed as well as they are in milk. This is mainly due to the presence of phytic acid, an antinutrient that inhibits iron, zinc, and magnesium absorption .
Almond milk is not acceptable as a milk substitute for infants since it is deficient in several nutrients.
Almond milk is naturally high in a variety of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin E.
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How To Make Almond Milk
Learn how to make almond milk at home – with just 2 ingredients + 5 minutes! This easy unsweetened almond milk recipe can be plain, vanilla, or chocolate.
This post may contain affiliate links, which help keep this content free.
As one of the most popular dairy free milk alternatives, almond milk is everywhere these days. And while its convenient to buy it at the store, learning how to make almond milk at home is worthwhile if you use it frequently. The ingredients in this unsweetened almond milk recipe with options for vanilla almond milk or other flavors, too! are cleaner, it tastes better, and it only takes a few minutes.
If you like the idea of homemade almond milk but cant have almonds, you can use the same method with other nuts, or make hemp milk for a nut-free option.
Is Unsweetened Almond Milk Keto
100 grams of unsweetened almond milk from the supermarket provides approximately the following nutritional values :
- Energy: 16.7 calories
- Dietary fiber: 0.4 grams
- Net carbs: 0.4 grams
Although macronutrients vary by manufacturer, on average, unsweetened almond milk contains so few carbohydrates that you can safely drink a cup or two of it.
Accordingly, the unsweetened almond milk in our example adds only 1 gram of net carbohydrates to the cup.
Considering that the ketosis tolerance level is 25-50 grams of net carbohydrates per day, the milk substitute is entirely safe.
Consequently, natural unsweetened almond milk is highly keto-friendly.
On the other hand, what about flavored almond milk?
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Pacific Foods Barista Series Almond Plant Based Beverage
Ingredients: Water, cane sugar, almonds, carrageenan, gellan gum, potassium citrate, sea salt, sodium citrate, sunflower lecithin.
Pacific Foods Barista Series Almond milk contains approximately 6 almonds per one cup serving.
Reasons to avoid Pacific Foods Barista Series Almondmilk:
- Sugar is the second ingredient before almonds
- Contains carrageenan
- Thickened with highly processed gums
Whole Foods 365 Unsweetened Almond Milk
Whole Foods 365 Unsweetened Almond Milk Ingredients: Water, almonds, sea salt, tricalcium phosphate, gellan gum, locust bean gum, vitamin A palmitate, vitamin D2, vitamin E, vitamin B12
Whole Foods 365 Unsweetened Almond Milk contains approximately 5 almonds per one cup serving.
Reasons why you may want to think twice about buying Whole Foods 365 Unsweetened Almond Milk:
- Contains only a few almonds per serving
- Thickened with highly processed gums
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Almond Milk Vs Cow Milk: Whats The Difference And Which One Is Healthier
Are you perplexed by the various milk options? Youre not the only one who feels this way. With the surge in popularity of plant-based diets, demand and interest for almond milk has skyrocketed, while demand for cows milk has dwindled in recent years. Is almond milk, on the other hand, a good option? Which is the healthier option? Heres how almond milk compares to cow milk in terms of nutrition.
Califia Farms Unsweetened Almondmilk
Not only is this added sugar-free, but the ingredients are also straightforward, says Shaw. Like many almond milks, Califia Farms also uses gellan and locust bean gum to help stabilize and extend the shelf life of their milk. Unless you are sensitive to these gums , you should be okay to consume them in moderation.
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Silk Almond Milk Stats
While recipes to make it from scratch exist, Silk and other almond milk brands take the guesswork out with their ready-made varieties. One cup of Silk Original Almondmilk contains 60 calories, 2.6 grams of fat and no saturated fat.
According to the American Heart Association, the average person should aim to consume no more than 5 to 6 percent of their calories from saturated fat. For instance, if you eat 2,000 calories per day, no more than 120 of them should be from saturated fat. Eating foods that are low in saturated fat can help to reduce cholesterol levels.
Silk Dark Chocolate Almondmilk contains 100 calories, 2.5 grams of fat per one cup serving and no saturated fat. Almond milk nutritionfor the vanilla flavor includes 80 calories and 2.5 grams of fat per cup. Unsweetened varieties of Silk almond milk contain 30 calories per cup.
All flavors of Silk almond milk contain a mere 1 gram of protein per serving, which is less than that of cows milk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults get 50 grams of protein per day, so almond milk admittedly might not be the thing to reach for to get your daily allotment.
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