Are you a fan of almond milk?
It’s a popular alternative to cow’s milk, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.
But did you know that not all almond milks are created equal when it comes to calcium content?
Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough in your diet.
In this article, we’ll explore which almond milk brands have the most calcium, and why it’s important to choose a calcium-fortified brand.
So, grab a glass of your favorite almond milk and let’s dive in!
Which Almond Milk Has The Most Calcium?
When it comes to calcium content, not all almond milks are created equal. In fact, some brands have significantly more calcium than others.
According to market research, almond milk has the greatest share of the alternative milk market. However, unlike cow’s milk, almond milk is not naturally high in calcium. This means that most almond milk brands add calcium to their products to make up for this deficiency.
So, which almond milk brands have the most calcium? The hands-down winner is Califia Farms Protein Oat Milk, with a whopping 595 milligrams of calcium per cup. Silk Ultra Protein (soy-based) and Silk Protein (made with almond, cashew, and pea milk) take the number two and three spots, respectively. Ripple Kids is actually in the #
Why Calcium Is Important For Your Health
Calcium is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining good health. It is essential for building strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting muscle and nerve function. Calcium also helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain a healthy heart rhythm.
If you don’t consume enough calcium, your body will start to take calcium from your bones, which can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. This is particularly concerning for older adults, who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.
Getting enough calcium in your diet is especially important for women, who are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis after menopause. Adequate calcium intake during childhood and adolescence is also crucial for building strong bones that will last a lifetime.
Dairy products are the richest dietary source of calcium, but for those who follow a plant-based or vegan diet, fortified almond milk can be a useful source of this mineral. However, it’s important to choose brands that are fortified with at least 100mg of calcium per 100mL of milk to ensure that you are getting enough calcium in your diet.
How Much Calcium Do You Need?
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting muscle and heart function. The recommended daily intake of calcium for adults is 1000-1200 milligrams, depending on age and gender. For those following a plant-based or vegan diet, getting enough calcium can be a challenge since many plant-based foods are not high in this mineral.
Fortified almond milk can be a useful source of calcium for those who avoid dairy products. Commercially available almond milk typically provides around 120 milligrams of calcium per 100 milliliters, which is comparable to cow’s milk. However, it’s important to note that the added calcium in plant-based milks may not be absorbed as well as the calcium found in dairy milk.
To ensure that you’re getting enough calcium from your diet, it’s recommended to choose almond milk brands that are fortified with at least 100 milligrams of calcium per 100 milliliters of milk. Additionally, it’s important to consume a variety of other calcium-rich foods such as leafy greens, tofu, and fortified cereals to meet your daily needs. If you’re concerned about your calcium intake, speak with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
Almond Milk Vs. Cow’s Milk: Which One Is Better For Calcium?
When it comes to calcium, cow’s milk is the clear winner. On average, cow’s milk contains about 40% more calcium compared to almond milk. The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend including adequate amounts of dairy foods, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, in our diets. This is because cow’s milk is an excellent source of absorbable dietary calcium.
While some almond milk brands have added calcium, evidence suggests that the added calcium in plant-based milks is not absorbed as well as the calcium found in cow’s milk. Low intakes of calcium can lead to osteoporosis, which is one of the major causes of morbidity amongst older Australians, particularly postmenopausal women.
If you choose almond milk as an alternative to cow’s milk, it is important to look for a calcium-fortified brand that contains at least 100mg of calcium per 100mL of milk. This is because even with fortification, almond milk does not have the same natural benefits as cow’s milk, which contains more protein and a package of readily absorbed nutrients that are hard to replicate.
How To Choose The Best Almond Milk For Calcium
If you’re looking for an almond milk that is high in calcium, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check the label for the amount of calcium per serving. Look for brands that have at least 100mg of calcium per 100mL of milk, as recommended by the Australian Dietary Guidelines.
Next, consider the type of almond milk you want. Some brands use almond milk as their base, while others use a combination of different plant-based milks. Soy-based milks also tend to be high in calcium, so if you’re open to trying different types of plant-based milks, this may be an option to consider.
Another factor to consider is whether the brand uses fortified or naturally occurring calcium. While fortified calcium can be just as effective as naturally occurring calcium, some people prefer to get their nutrients from natural sources.
Finally, taste is important too! Try a few different brands and see which ones you prefer. Some almond milks have a subtle flavor, while others are more nutty or sweet.
The Top Almond Milk Brands With The Most Calcium
1. Califia Farms Protein Oat Milk: With 595 milligrams of calcium per cup, this brand is the clear winner when it comes to calcium content. This oat milk is not only high in calcium, but it’s also a good source of protein and fiber.
2. Silk Ultra Protein: This soy-based milk has 450 milligrams of calcium per cup, making it a great option for those who are looking for a high-calcium alternative to cow’s milk.
3. Silk Protein: Made with a blend of almond, cashew, and pea milk, this milk contains 450 milligrams of calcium per cup. It’s also a good source of protein and has a creamy texture.
4. Blue Diamond Almond Breeze: This popular brand of almond milk is fortified with calcium and has 455 milligrams of calcium per cup. It’s also a good source of vitamin E.
5. Three Trees Organics Original Almond Milk: This brand prides itself on using only whole food ingredients and has 66 milligrams of calcium per cup. It does not contain any stabilizers or thickeners and is made from only water and almonds.
While these brands may have the most calcium, it’s important to note that all almond milks are fortified with calcium to some extent. When choosing an almond milk, it’s important to consider other factors such as taste, texture, and ingredients.
Other Nutrients To Look For In Almond Milk
While calcium is an important nutrient to consider when choosing an almond milk brand, it’s not the only one. Many almond milk brands also fortify their products with other vitamins and minerals to make them more nutritious.
One important nutrient to look for is vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. Some brands, like Silk Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk and Pacific Organic Almond Milk, add vitamin D to their products.
Another nutrient to consider is vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Almonds are naturally high in vitamin E, so some almond milk brands may have higher levels of this nutrient than others.
It’s also important to pay attention to the ingredients list and avoid products with added sugars or artificial flavors. Look for unsweetened almond milk that contains only a few simple ingredients, like almonds, water, and perhaps a natural thickener like locust bean gum or gellan gum.
