Are you a coffee lover who can’t start their day without a splash of creamer? If so, you’re not alone.
But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which creamers are actually good for you.
In recent years, almond milk creamer has become a popular choice for those looking to avoid dairy and artificial ingredients. But is almond milk coffee creamer actually healthy?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients in popular almond milk creamers and explore their potential health benefits and drawbacks.
So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
Is Almond Milk Coffee Creamer Healthy?
Almond milk creamer is a popular choice for those looking for a dairy-free and plant-based alternative to traditional creamers. But is it actually healthy?
The answer is: it depends on the brand and ingredients.
Some almond milk creamers on the market are loaded with artificial flavors, sweeteners, and unhealthy fats. However, there are also many options that are made with simple, natural ingredients and offer health benefits.
For example, some almond milk creamers are made with heart-healthy almonds, which are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Almonds have also been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Additionally, many almond milk creamers are free from artificial sweeteners and refined sugars, which can be harmful to your health in excess.
However, it’s important to note that not all almond milk creamers are created equal. Some brands may contain added oils or gums that can be harmful to your health in excess. It’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and choose a brand that uses simple, natural ingredients.
Ingredients In Almond Milk Coffee Creamer
Almond milk coffee creamer typically contains a combination of filtered water, almonds, sweeteners, and other ingredients. Some common ingredients found in almond milk coffee creamer include cane sugar, high oleic sunflower oil, pea protein, potassium citrate, baking soda, sunflower lecithin, natural flavor, sea salt, gellan gum, coconut oil, guar gum, and vitamin C.
It’s important to note that not all of these ingredients are necessarily healthy. For example, some sweeteners used in almond milk creamers may be artificial or refined sugars, which can be harmful to your health in excess. Similarly, some brands may use oils or gums that can be harmful to your health in excess.
However, there are also many almond milk creamers that are made with simple, natural ingredients and offer health benefits. For example, almond milk itself is a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Additionally, many almond milk creamers are free from artificial sweeteners and refined sugars.
When choosing an almond milk coffee creamer, it’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and choose a brand that uses simple, natural ingredients. By doing so, you can enjoy the health benefits of almond milk while still enjoying your morning cup of coffee.
Benefits Of Choosing Almond Milk Creamer
There are several benefits to choosing almond milk creamer over traditional dairy-based creamers or even other plant-based options. One major benefit is that almond milk creamer is dairy-free and suitable for those with lactose intolerance or who follow a vegan diet. This means that it can be a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the creamy texture of traditional creamers without the negative health effects of dairy.
Almond milk creamer is also low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for those watching their weight or blood sugar levels. Compared to dairy milk, unsweetened almond milk has 50% to 80% fewer calories and is considered a low glycemic index food, meaning it’s less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
Another benefit of almond milk creamer is that it can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially if it’s fortified. Many brands add vitamins A, D, and E, as well as calcium, to their almond milk creamers to provide the bone support benefit found in dairy milk. Almond milk is also rich in magnesium, which is important for muscle function, blood sugar control, blood pressure, and making bone, protein, and DNA.
Lastly, almond milk creamer can be delicious and versatile. It has a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower your coffee and can be found in a variety of flavors like hazelnut and French vanilla. Many brands also offer sugar-free options for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.
Potential Drawbacks Of Almond Milk Creamer
While almond milk creamer may offer health benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main concerns is the presence of carrageenan, an additive extracted from red seaweed that is often used as a thickening agent. Carrageenan has been linked to digestive issues and intestinal inflammation in some studies, although the FDA considers it safe for consumption. Additionally, some almond milk creamers may contain added oils or gums that can be harmful to your health in excess. It’s important to choose a brand that uses simple, natural ingredients and to be mindful of any digestive issues that may arise after consuming almond milk creamer. Finally, it’s important to note that some almond milk creamers may contain added sugars, which can be harmful to your health if consumed in excess. To reap the most benefits from almond milk creamer, choose a brand that is unsweetened and free from artificial sweeteners or refined sugars.
Comparing Almond Milk Creamer To Other Creamer Options
When comparing almond milk creamer to other creamer options, it’s important to consider factors such as calories, fat content, and sugar levels.
In terms of calories, almond milk creamer typically has fewer calories than traditional creamers like heavy cream or French vanilla creamer. It also tends to have less saturated fat and more healthy fats from the almonds.
Compared to other non-dairy creamer options, almond milk creamer is often a healthier choice. For example, coconut milk creamer may have a similar calorie count, but it is often high in saturated fat. Soy milk creamer may have more protein, but it can also be high in sugar.
Making Your Own Almond Milk Creamer At Home
If you want to ensure that your almond milk creamer is healthy and made with simple, natural ingredients, you can make your own at home. Making your own almond milk creamer is easy and affordable, and allows you to control the ingredients that go into it.
To make your own almond milk creamer at home, start by soaking raw almonds in water for at least six hours or overnight. This helps to soften the almonds and make them easier to blend. After soaking, rinse the almonds and discard the water.
Next, add the soaked almonds to a blender along with filtered water, a natural sweetener like dates or maple syrup (optional), and any additional flavorings like vanilla extract or coconut oil. Blend the mixture on high speed for at least a minute until it becomes smooth and creamy.
Once blended, strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cloth filter to remove any almond pulp. The resulting liquid is your homemade almond milk creamer, which can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
By making your own almond milk creamer at home, you can avoid the added sugars, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats found in many store-bought options. Plus, you can customize the flavor and sweetness to your liking. Give it a try and enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional creamers in your coffee or tea.
