10 Reasons You Should Stop Drinking Almond Milk

Almond milk might seem like the trendy health choice, but is it really all that great? Turns out, there are quite a few reasons to rethink your morning splash of almond milk. From sneaky sugars to environmental woes, this popular drink might not be the superstar it claims to be. Find out why you might want to ditch it for something better.

Woman holding almonds and a glass of almond milk.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Low Nutrient Content

Almond milk is basically water with a hint of almond. It often lacks essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins B12 and D found in cow’s milk or other plant-based alternatives. While cow’s milk boasts 8 grams of protein per cup, almond milk typically offers a measly 1 gram. So, you might be better off just eating the almond straight up.

Added Sugars

Many sweetened almond milk varieties contain added sugars to make it taste better. While you might think you’re being healthy, you’re actually guzzling down liquid candy. Some brands contain up to 20 grams of sugar per serving, which is half the daily recommended limit for women and a third for men. Watch out for those sugar bombs.

Environmental Impact

Almond farming is a water guzzler. It takes about a gallon of water to grow a single almond. Considering that most almonds in the U.S. are grown in California, a state plagued by drought, almond milk is practically public enemy number one for the environment. Choosing water-efficient alternatives like oat milk can make a significant impact.

Almond tree farm.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Pesticide Use

Those almonds are often doused in pesticides. Yum, a side of chemicals with your breakfast! Pesticides like glyphosate, used in almond farming, have been linked to environmental damage and potential health risks, including cancer. Organic almonds reduce this risk but still aren’t entirely pesticide-free.

Low Protein

Almond milk has as much protein as a piece of lettuce. Okay, maybe not that bad, but it’s definitely low on protein compared to cow’s milk or other plant-based options like soy or pea protein milk. Your muscles will not be impressed with the mere 1 gram of protein per cup if you're using it in a smoothie or bowl of cereal without supplementation. Consider higher-protein options if you’re aiming for a balanced diet or know that you’ll need to compensate with whole food protein sources in other ways.

Expensive

Almond milk can drain your wallet faster than a latte habit. It’s pricier than other milk alternatives, often costing double the price of cow’s milk or soy milk, especially for higher quality brands. You have to wonder if it’s worth the splurge for what you’re actually getting. Maybe save those extra dollars for something more nutrient-dense.

Carrageenan Concerns

Some almond milk brands add carrageenan, a seaweed extract used as a thickener. It sounds healthy until you realize it’s linked to digestive issues and inflammation. Seaweed should stay in sushi, not your milk. There are carrageenan-free options, but you have to read the labels carefully.

Small bowl of almonds and jar of milk.Photo byPhoto credit: Depositphotos.

Nutrient Additives

Many almond milks are fortified with synthetic nutrients to mimic the benefits of cow’s milk. However, these synthetic nutrients, like calcium carbonate and vitamin D2, might not be as easily absorbed by your body as the naturally occurring ones. It’s like the difference between fresh fruit and a gummy vitamin—one is clearly better for you.

Allergenic Potential

Almond allergies might be less common than dairy allergies, but they still exist. For those with nut allergies, the risk of cross-contamination can make almond milk a risky choice.

Taste and Texture

Let’s face it, almond milk can taste like flavored water with a hint of nut. Its watery texture isn’t great in coffee or cooking. Sometimes, it’s just not worth the compromise when there are creamier, tastier alternatives like oat or soy milk that blend better in recipes and beverages.