Picture this: You're walking down the grocery store aisle, trying to decide which milk alternative to buy for your little one-year-old angel. Seeing all these options is like being stuck in a never-ending labyrinth of dairy-free alternatives. Coconut milk? Too thick. Soy milk? Passé. Oat milk? Yawn! Fear not, we are here to explore whether almond milk is safe for your tiny tot.
Let's Start with Some Facts About Almonds
Almonds are nutritious and delicious nuts that belong to the family of Rosaceae, also known as the rose family. They are native to Iran but now widely cultivated worldwide, particularly in California and Spain.
Almonds contain healthy fats, proteins, vitamins E and B2 (riboflavin), magnesium, iron, calcium and fiber.
What Exactly Is Almond Milk?
Unlike cow's milk or goat's milk that comes from a mammal source - you guessed it - almonds come directly from trees! To make almond milk:
- Soak almonds overnight.
- Rinse well in cold water.
- Blend the soaked almonds with water until smooth
- Strain through cheesecloth or nut-milk bag until no large pieces remain
Voilà! You have homemade fresh almond milk ready to go!
Ready-made almond drinks also exist on supermarket shelves if you don't want to DIY it yourself.
Why Do Parents Consider Giving Almond Milk Instead of Cow's Milk?
There could be numerous reasons why parents opt for non-dairy kinds of foods instead of traditional whole milks :
- Whole Milk Allergy: A child having an allergy towards animal-based proteins found commonly in regular dairy products may need plant-based sources as a supplement.
- Lactose Sensitivity: The inability or difficulty processing lactose leading up bloating or upset stomach,
- Vegan Diet: Parents raising their kid to be vegan might think cow's milk is not compatible that food regimen expectations.
- Cultural Practices: In some cultures, people tend to avoid animal-based products during theirfirst year of life.
Is Almond Milk Nourishing Enough For Your Little?
While almond milk might be a good option for adults looking out for non-dairy substitutes or watching out calories , it should not be the primary or sole source of nutrition given how babies under one need more calorie-intense meals.
A study by The American Academy Of Pediatrics suggests "almond milk was inadequate both nutrient-wise and calorie-wise as compared with whole cow’s milk in toddlers between 12 and 23 months." They suggest unsweetened soy or pea protein alternative are comparably better when dietary restrictions come into play.
However, if you want to serve dairy alternatives other than canned nut options like coconut cream from solid coconut flesh could serve up richer sources of fat and calories while maintaining natural sweetness.
Key Takeaways
- If your infant needs an ideal replacement due to lactose intolerance or any allergen concerns; Unsweetened Soy/Pea-protein based formulas substitute nutritional requirements.
- Almond Milk should never replace Breast Milk nor Formula milks
- Give preference to homemade versions over-readymade ones since commercially purchasable bottles often tend to have high sweeteners that can risk affect blood glucose levels
- Lastly, consult your pediatrician before making big changes in diet patterns ensuring you're adhering safe growth healthcare methods
So what's the bottom line? It seems like unsweetened soy or pea protein formulas are comparable replacements when circumstance calls for dietary restrictions including avoiding animal-based proteins found commonly in regular dairy products but Almond Milk shouldn't ever replace breastfeedings the main source of nutrition throughout their first year. As always ask a professional before eliminating anything critical from your baby's routine.
Until then, keep those taste buds creative and enjoy nourishing your child from a wide range of foods!
Bon Appetit, Amis!