Almonds contain antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and have a long list of health benefits. So why not make milk out of them!
Almond milk is a good natural source of magnesium, potassium, manganese, selenium and vitamin E — nutrients that aid metabolism, bone health, heart function, immune and reproductive function.
Nutritional benefits of almond milk:
Benefit #1: Weight Management- Plain almond milk contains only 60 calories per each 8 oz serving size
Benefit #2: Heart Health- Almond milk contains no cholesterol and low amounts of sodium per serving
Benefit #3: Blood Sugar Friendly- Unlike other milk alternatives, the plain almond option contains only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving
Benefit #4: Bone Health- Almond milk contains 30% of our recommended daily value of calcium and 25% of Vitamin D. These nutrients work together to build strong bones in men, women, children and infants.
Benefit #5: Skin Care- Every serving of pure almond milk contains 50% of our recommended daily value of Vitamin E. This powerful nutrient has antioxidant abilities in that it helps regulate Vitamin A use and availability. More importantly, Vitamin E acts the primary regulatory nutrient that improves skin health.
Benefit #5: Eye Health- The moderate levels of Vitamin A found in almond milk helps keep our eyes functioning properly. Vitamin A directly influences the eye’s ability to adjust to differences in light.
Benefit #6: More Muscle Power- Even though almond milk only contains 1 gram of protein per serving, it does contain B Vitamins in the form of riboflavin, plus other muscle regulating nutrients like iron. Each serving of almond milk contains about 4% of our recommended daily intake of iron, which helps muscles absorb and use protein for energy, growth and repair.
Recipe
Almond Milk Ingredients:
1 cup raw almonds, (preferably organic) unroasted
4-5 cups of filtered water (depending how concentrated you want your almond milk)
2 tbsp of maple syrup or 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract (can also add cinnamon)
Step 1: Soak 1 cup of almonds in filtered water overnight on your kitchen counter. Cover with enough water to completely submerge all the almonds.
Step 2: In the morning, drain all the water and rinse the almonds thoroughly, at least three times. (Soaking releases the enzymes-inhibiting substances in the skin which make them difficult to digest).
Step 3: Blend almonds for a few minutes to a fine texture.
Step 4: Add water to the almonds and blend for another one-two minutes.
Step 5: Place a nut milk bag/cheesecloth or fine strainer over a pitcher and pour the blended mixture into it.
Step 6: Strain the milk through the nut bag until only the pulp is left.
Step 7: Add spices of your liking and place in the fridge.
This almond milk lasts for about 4 days. Drink it as is or use in smoothies and oatmeal!!
Enjoy!!
~Jamie