I've been allergic to dairy since I was born. I've tried to have a little here and there but it never works out well. Despite knowing this, my addiction to coffee dominated my better judgment and I used non-fat milk for years before finally substituting it with almond milk. Instantly I was shocked at how positively it impacted my daily diet. Here's why it's so FABULOUS.
1. Almond milk has the good fat, omega 3's. In other words it will satisfy your appetite.
I eat a late breakfast so I need a little something extra in my coffee besides sugar (which I think of as the white devil) to get me through the morning chaos without feeling famished. Almond milk has just enough fat and carbs to keep me satisfied. Just think, these are the calories that are worth their weight in gold.
2. Almond milk is good for your skin.
Dairy can sometimes cause breakouts (the bane of my existence). I was shocked when I heard this from my facial lady but I didn't listen to her. After all, what was I suppose to put in my coffee? It wasn't until I cut out dairy completely that I saw the difference.....and what a pleasant surprise it was.
3. It has more calcium than regular milk.
This is huge. I think calcium is something we can take for granted. Since calcium is in many foods it may be easy to assume you're getting enough but it's not that easy. Calcium supplements are also not full proof as sometimes it is difficult for our body to absorb them if they are not ingested properly. Osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are better prevented rather than treated. Plus, brittle bones are not part of the plan for the active senior life I have planned.
4. Almond Milk has high levels of antioxidants.
I'm all about prevention and if I can drink something I like and it's good for me then it's a no brainer. Antioxidants help fight aging and I don't just mean staving off premature wrinkles. Although that's a huge plus...I'm actually referring to the aging of our internal organs. Even though we can't see them we still have to take care of them. Antioxidants have also been proven to prevent many types of cancer. I can't think of anything better than that!
5. Almond Milk is great for cooking.
I usually substitute milk for water when I bake but now I've recently started using almond milk and the flavor is subtle yet noticeable in a very yummy way. Sky is the limit here.
*Bonus.
-I think Almond Milk tastes better.
-Almond Milk stays fresh longer than regular cow's milk.
-There are no antibiotics to worry about being in it.
-Be sure to buy a brand that uses non GMO almonds, no added sugar (corn syrup), carrageenan ( a thickener derived from seaweed) or preservatives.
*This link may be helpful in deciding which brand is right for you. I personally buy the Trader Joe's Unsweetened Almond Milk and Whole Foods Market 365 Unsweetened Almond Milk.
http://healthyeater.com/almond-milk