Almost no other food combines as many properties as almond milk: not only is it extremely healthy and light, but it also makes you look beautiful and is very easy to prepare. It is therefore not surprising to see how this natural drink has become a true lifestyle item among beauty-conscious movie stars and models. Diet-conscious vegetarians and vegans also rely on the health-promoting effects of lactose-free almond milk. But what is actually up with this new trendy drink, which nutritional values and vital substances can be proven, and to what extent almond milk can favor natural beauty? Find out in this blog!
Table of Contents
History and origin of almond milk
It is believed that the almond trees originated in Southwest Asia and spread from there to the Caucasus and Turkey; they have been cultivated for about 4,000 years. There is also a long tradition of almond milk in these regions, as in the Middle Ages. Almond milk, used as a fasting food at the time, spread rapidly from the Iberian Peninsula. Milk of almonds is still very popular in Spanish cuisine today. It was transformed into a sorbet on the Balearic island of Mallorca to accompany the traditional Mallorcan almond cake. Latte di mandorla is also a typical drink on the Italian island of Sicily.
It was popular in both Islamic and Christian societies because of its purely plant-based composition (mainly almonds, various fruits, and seeds).
In Naples, almond milk was recommended until 1828 as a backup treatment for dysentery:
“The foreigner tends to experience attacks of dysentery, so care must be taken against heat factors, and advise simply to enjoy strong almond milk mixed with ice, sherbet, and similar refreshing drinks. If it gives not the desired result, the physician may be consulted.”
In Germany, almond milk was also sold as vegetable milk during the life reform movement around the turn of the century by Heinrich Lahmann, among others.
Properties and benefits of almond milk.
1. Almond milk is full of nutrients.
Drinking almond milk is essential for a healthy lifestyle and an even complexion. Almonds contain a wide range of valuable nutrients and minerals such as:
- Copper
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Rich in unsaturated fatty acids
- Fiber
Almond milk is also a purely vegetable product and is therefore also recommended for people with gluten and lactose intolerance. Almonds are therefore a real all-rounder when it comes to health: they strengthen bones, lower cholesterol levels, protect against diabetes, and are also slimming.
2. Their most important antioxidant: vitamin E
In addition to the health-promoting properties, the promising properties of almond milk in terms of anti-aging should also be mentioned positively: a balanced diet with vitamins B and E provides the skin with vital nutrients and thus prevents unsightly skin changes such as premature wrinkles. Vitamin E fulfills its function conscientiously as an antioxidant aid and protects the cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Without the protective effect of vitamins, these molecular fragments attack the cells and can damage them permanently. Diseases and problems such as sallow skin without elasticity and increased wrinkles are some of the unpleasant consequences that can result when this happens. Since the body can only produce small amounts of antioxidants, it is essential to take them from foods with a high vitamin E content. This is the only way to ensure that the cells are adequately nourished. If you finally reach your long-term vitamin E requirement, your skin will thank you with a fresh, radiant, and youthful complexion.
3. Almond milk strengthens hair and nails
Almond milk is good not only for the skin but also for hair and nails thanks to its valuable ingredients. A lack of important vital substances in the body is quickly noticeable in the form of brittle nails and dull hair. To remedy this and bring them back to life healthy and attractive, a nutrient-rich diet is indispensable. Trace elements copper, iron and zinc in almond milk, which is rich in protein, as well as vitamin B, help to eliminate this deficit within the body and compensate for the lack of nutrients. And here again, vitamin E proves to be an important supporter of hair health. Through the enjoyment of foods rich in vitamin E, the hair roots are strengthened and their growth is stimulated. In this sense, the components of almond milk provide optimal conditions for a healthy and beautiful lifestyle.
4. Your ideal beauty partner
All of the above advantages make no room for doubt that a balanced diet supplemented with a daily ration of almond milk is essential for a vital and positive appearance. A wide range of possible uses in the daily menu leaves enough room for the preparation of a wide variety of meals. Regular consumption of this drink strengthens health and, as proof, gives a radiant complexion, shiny hair and strong nails. Beauty still lies within, but from now on you have a reliable companion by your side to achieve it: almond milk!
5. Maintains your figure
Many reasons can exist to choose almond milk. Some choose them on a vegan diet, others use them for lactose intolerance. However, one positive effect we all get from almond milk is that it helps us achieve a slim figure in the long run because almond milk has a lower sugar content than cow’s milk. With 40 kilocalories per 100 ml, almond milk offers a lighter alternative to whole milk, which has around 65 kilocalories per 100 ml. Sugar-free almond milk is even better. It has only 13 calories!
6. High in potassium
Due to its high potassium content, almond milk is particularly useful for intestinal problems such as diarrhea or vomiting. Our body loses a large amount of potassium from these ailments, which can be restored thanks to the inclusion of almond milk in our diet.
7. Potent for the digestive system
Among the many properties of almond milk, we can include the digestive power and therefore excellent ally for our intestines. When consumed regularly, almond milk helps our body to perform a real cleansing action by ridding the body of all the toxins that accumulate in it. Thanks to the fibers it contains, it can also be consumed in case of gastritis.
What does almond milk taste like?
Homemade almond milk is composed exclusively of almonds and water and therefore tastes very intense. It is also a little creamier, perhaps a little crunchier to the taste than the grocery-purchased version and its slightly sweet nutty aroma goes particularly well with coffee, tea, smoothies, and other sweet beverages.
In addition, almond milk is also ideal for cream cakes, baked goods, spreads, salad dressings or muesli.
Contraindications
Natural Chemical Elements
The natural chemical elements found in almond milk can cause long-term thyroid dysfunction which, in some cases, can be severe when consumed in excess. In fact, these components can modify and alter the proper absorption of iodine by our body. Therefore, before including this drink in our diet in a specific way, we must be sure that we are not suffering from disorders closely related to the thyroid gland.
It is not recommended for newborns
Precisely for the reason mentioned in the previous paragraph, giving almond milk to infants and young children is not recommended. At this special time of life, children also need an adequate supply of nutrients for proper growth. Unfortunately, almond milk cannot provide children with the right amount of these valuable substances.