Are you considering switching to almond milk?
With the rise of dairy-free diets and concerns about the environmental impact of traditional dairy farming, almond milk has become a popular alternative.
But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Should you opt for organic almond milk?
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of choosing organic almond milk and what to look for when selecting a brand.
Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier option, read on to discover if organic almond milk is right for you.
Should I Buy Organic Almond Milk?
Organic almond milk is a great choice for those who are looking for a healthier and more sustainable alternative to traditional dairy milk. Organic almond milk is made from almonds that are grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, which can have negative effects on both the environment and our health.
In addition to being better for the environment, organic almond milk is also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. It is fortified with calcium, vitamin E, and vitamin D, making it a great non-dairy alternative that provides similar important nutrients as cow’s milk.
When selecting a brand of organic almond milk, it’s important to read the label and avoid brands that contain carrageenan. Carrageenan is a thickening agent that has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation. Look for brands that have a simplified ingredient list with only a few necessary, familiar ingredients.
One brand that stands out is Three Trees organic almond milk. This small company is committed to sustainability and uses recycled plastic for their bottles. Their almond milk comes in original, vanilla, pistachio, and black sesame flavors, with a simplified ingredient list of just almonds and water for their plain almond milk.
It’s important to note that while unsweetened almond milk is naturally low in sugar and high in vitamin E, sweetened almond milk can be loaded with sugar. If you’re trying to limit your sugar intake, opt for unsweetened almond milk.
What Is Organic Almond Milk?
Organic almond milk is a non-dairy milk alternative made from organic almonds and filtered water. It is a plant-based milk that is free from lactose, cholesterol, and saturated fat. Organic almond milk is a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, as it provides a similar taste and texture to cow’s milk without the potential negative health effects.
Organic almond milk is made from almonds that are grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals, which can have negative effects on both the environment and our health. The almonds are soaked in water, blended, and then strained to remove any solids, resulting in a smooth and creamy liquid.
Organic almond milk is also fortified with important vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin E, and vitamin D. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy bones, skin, and immune function.
It’s important to note that not all organic almond milk brands are created equal. Some brands may contain additives such as carrageenan, which has been linked to digestive issues and inflammation. When selecting a brand of organic almond milk, it’s important to read the label and look for brands with a simplified ingredient list that contains only necessary and familiar ingredients.
Benefits Of Choosing Organic Almond Milk
Choosing organic almond milk has many benefits for both our health and the environment. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing organic almond milk:
1. No harmful pesticides and chemicals: Organic almond milk is made from almonds that are grown without the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals. This means that it is better for the environment and our health.
2. Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals: Organic almond milk is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin E, and vitamin D. These nutrients are important for maintaining strong bones, healthy skin, and a strong immune system.
3. Low in calories and sugar: Organic almond milk is naturally low in calories and sugar, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight or trying to limit their sugar intake.
4. No added thickeners or stabilizers: When choosing organic almond milk, it’s important to look for brands that have a simplified ingredient list with only a few necessary, familiar ingredients. This means avoiding brands that contain added thickeners or stabilizers such as carrageenan.
5. Sustainable: Choosing organic almond milk supports sustainable farming practices and reduces the use of harmful chemicals in our food system.
Environmental Impact Of Conventional Almond Farming
Conventional almond farming, on the other hand, can have a negative impact on the environment. Non-organic almond farming relies heavily on the use of pesticides and chemicals to control pests and diseases, which can contaminate soil and water sources. In addition, conventional almond farming requires a lot of water, which can be problematic in drought-prone regions like California where most of the almonds are grown.
According to studies, it takes around 1.1 gallons of water to produce a single almond. This means that a single glass of almond milk requires around 50 almonds and over 50 gallons of water. This high demand for water has led to concerns about the sustainability of almond farming in California, where most of the world’s almonds are grown.
Furthermore, conventional almond farming can also contribute to soil degradation and erosion. This is because almond trees are typically planted in monoculture, which means that only one crop is grown on the same land year after year. This can lead to soil depletion and erosion, which can have long-term negative effects on the environment.
What To Look For When Selecting An Organic Almond Milk Brand
When selecting an organic almond milk brand, there are a few key factors to consider. First, look for unsweetened versions, as they contain less added sugar. Additionally, it’s important to choose a brand that is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E.
When it comes to the ingredient list, opt for brands with a shorter list and fewer additives. While some stabilizers and emulsifiers are necessary, it’s best to avoid brands with more than two or three of these ingredients. Carrageenan, in particular, should be avoided as it has been linked to potential health issues.
To ensure that you’re getting a higher proportion of actual almonds in your almond milk, check the nutrition label for higher fat, protein, and calorie numbers. Brands that contain added thickeners tend to have less actual almonds in them.
Potential Drawbacks Of Organic Almond Milk
While organic almond milk has many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. First, almond milk is a poor source of protein, fat, and nutrients important for infants’ growth and development. Therefore, it should not be substituted for breast milk or formula for infants.
Additionally, some commercially produced almond milk can contain many additives such as sugar, salt, flavors, and gums. Excessive consumption of these additives can increase the risk of weight gain, dental cavities, and other chronic conditions. Furthermore, some types of emulsifiers like carrageenan may disrupt gut health. While carrageenan is recognized as safe, more research is needed before any conclusions can be made.
Moreover, almond milk can cause digestive issues such as nausea, stomach discomfort, dysentery, and bowel problems if consumed in excessive amounts. It can also interfere with medications and result in severe gastrointestinal reactions in some people. Almond milk is not advisable for people with nut allergies or lactose allergies.
Lastly, almond milk is considered a goitrogenic food that contains chemicals that can harm the thyroid when consumed in large amounts. For people whose thyroid function is low, it is recommended to consume almond milk in moderation or avoid it altogether.
