Almond milk is considered as a healthy and nutritious alternative to cow’s milk or soy milk. Take note that almond milk is cholesterol and dairy free and comprised of high amounts of calcium, protein, essential vitamins and minerals. The benefits of almond milk are many but there are a few dangers that you have to be familiar with including the elevated amount of sugar and its status as a goitrogenic food.
Effects on the thyroid
Almonds are known as goitrogenic food. It simply means that they contain chemicals that can harm the thyroid. Goitrogenic foods such as cabbage, soy, flax, kale, almonds and broccoli can cause the expansion of the thyroid and when eaten in large amounts, can cause the formation of goiter since one of the abundant chemicals present in goitrogens blocks the intake of iodine. Even though goitrogenic foods can be harmful if consumed in large amounts, they are still healthy and beneficial to the immune system. Nevertheless, individuals who have a low thyroid function should limit eating high amounts of goitrogenic foods. Take note that almond milk is composed of levels of goitrogenic toxins generated from almonds and must be avoided by those at risk of low thyroid function. Those who have a healthy thyroid function can consume moderate amounts of almond milk and will not experience any negative side effects on the thyroid.
Almond milk for babies
Due to the increasing trend to replace cow’s milk with soy milk, replacing with almond milk is not advisable. Take note that almond milk could not provide adequate source of nutrition to babies. If breast milk or formula is replaced, the baby will suffer from malnutrition and will increase the risk of developing health complications for life.
Even occasional feeding of almond milk is not also recommended. Based on studies, it revealed that autoimmune thyroid disease has developed among babies who consume almond milk. Take note that the concentration of goitrogenic chemicals is elevated than when consumed by an adult. Even in moderate amounts, goitrogenic foods must be avoided at all costs during infancy.
Sweetness of almond milk
An obvious disadvantage of almond milk is the increased percentage of sugar it contains unlike with cow’s milk. Take note that almond milk does not contain sugar naturally and it is only added by the manufacturers during the processing in order to make the taste desirable. Most of the commercially-produced almond milk typically contains approximately 20 grams of sugar in every serving. Luckily, there are now unsweetened options in the market that contain as low as 1 gram of carbohydrate for every serving.
For those who are considering drinking almond milk as a supplement, it is best not to consume in large doses. As for babies, this is not a recommended source of nutrition at all. If you are in doubt, it is best to consult a doctor or enroll in a health course to learn what almond milk has to offer and if it is suitable for you.