Beverages, almond milk, vanilla flavor
Category: Beverages Characteristics: Sweetened, Ready To Drink
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
90
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 63 (70.2%) |
Fat | 22 (24.9%) |
Protein | 4.0 (4.5%) |
Total | 90 (100%) |
Serving: 8 fl oz [240g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 220 (91.8%) |
Carbohydrate | 16 (6.6%) |
Fat | 2.5 (1.0%) |
Protein | 1.0 (0.4%) |
Ash | 0.8 (0.3%) |
Total | 240 (100%) |
Serving: 8 fl oz [240g]
Benefits
-
It provides calcium which is important for bone health. One cup of almond milk contains about 450mg of calcium
-
It is a good source of vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. One cup contains about 15% of the Daily Value of vitamin E
-
It contains some fiber which aids digestion and makes you feel full. One cup contains about 1g of fiber
-
It is lower in calories and fat compared to dairy milk. One cup contains only 60 calories and 2.5g of fat
-
The sweetened vanilla flavor makes it a tasty alternative to dairy milk for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a plant-based option
Risks
-
Added sugars from flavoring. This product contains added sugars from vanilla flavoring which increases the calorie and carbohydrate content
-
Lack of protein. Almond milk itself is low in protein and the sweetened variety provides even less protein than plain almond milk
-
Higher calorie than plain almond milk. The addition of sugars makes this more calorie-dense than plain almond milk without additional nutrients
-
May not be suitable for those avoiding dairy. Although non-dairy, it is sweetened which some seeking non-dairy options aim to avoid
-
Quality of almonds not verified. As a processed product, the quality and sourcing of almonds is not transparent
Additional Information
Almond milk, sweetened, vanilla flavor, ready-to-drink, is a popular plant-based alternative to dairy milk. It is made from ground almonds and water, with added sweeteners and vanilla flavoring. This beverage offers several nutritional benefits, but it also comes with a few risks that should be considered.
One of the main advantages of almond milk is its low calorie content. It typically contains fewer calories than cow's milk, making it a suitable option for individuals aiming to manage their weight. Additionally, almond milk is naturally cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat, which can contribute to maintaining heart health.
Almond milk is also a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Vitamin E plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and hair, as well as supporting the immune system. Furthermore, this beverage often contains added vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and the absorption of calcium.
Another benefit of almond milk is that it is lactose-free, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. It can be a valuable alternative for those who experience digestive issues after consuming dairy products.
However, it is important to note that sweetened almond milk may also pose some risks. The added sweeteners, such as cane sugar or other natural sweeteners, increase the calorie content and can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively. Individuals with diabetes or those watching their blood sugar levels should be cautious and opt for unsweetened varieties or consult with a healthcare professional.
Moreover, it is essential to be aware that almond milk is relatively low in protein compared to cow's milk. While cow's milk provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair, almond milk may not be a sufficient protein source on its own. It is advisable to include other protein-rich foods in the diet to meet daily protein requirements.
Additionally, some brands of almond milk may contain additives, such as carrageenan, which is used as a thickening agent. Carrageenan has been associated with digestive issues in some individuals, although more research is needed to establish a definitive link. Opting for almond milk without additives or making homemade almond milk can help mitigate this potential risk.
In conclusion, almond milk, sweetened, vanilla flavor, ready-to-drink, offers several nutritional benefits such as being low in calories, cholesterol-free, and a good source of vitamin E. It is also suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. However, the added sweeteners and potential additives should be considered, as they can increase calorie intake and pose potential risks. It is important to choose unsweetened varieties or make homemade almond milk if concerned about added sugars and additives. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure adequate protein intake from other sources to meet daily requirements. As with any food or beverage, moderation and individual needs should be taken into account when incorporating almond milk into a balanced diet.