Why Milk Isn’t for Us
For those of us following the Paleo diet, the days of drinking cow’s milk are likely a distant memory. At least, that’s certainly true for me. I gave it up entirely after watching an episode on Oprah that explored the beauty rituals of a tribe in Eastern Africa.
Yes, I confess—I watched Oprah. But it was fascinating to see how an entirely different culture perceives beauty. Two months prior to their weddings, women of the Hima Tribe in Uganda spend their days in “fattening huts,” where they drink copious amounts of milk to gain weight. In Hima culture, a larger wife is seen as a sign of wealth, health, and success—and therefore, considered beautiful.
After seeing the graphic footage of women consuming gallons of milk, giving it up didn’t seem like such a hard transition. I know for many, swapping white coffee for black wasn’t as easy.
Almond Milk: A Paleo-Friendly Alternative
That’s why I wanted to share a Paleo-friendly alternative that’s earned a permanent spot in my fridge: almond milk. Almond milk is made from ground almonds and has been around for centuries. Historically, it was a staple in medieval kitchens because cow’s milk didn’t keep long and was quickly turned into butter or cheese.
The Benefits of Almond Milk
Beyond the history lesson, almond milk packs some impressive health benefits:
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Gluten and lactose free
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Low in fat—contains about a third fewer calories than low-fat cow’s milk
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Contains no cholesterol and may help lower blood sugar levels
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Rich in Vitamin E, which helps protect body tissue from damage
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Supports digestive health and can help maintain regularity
How to Enjoy Almond Milk
Unlike many alternative products that claim to be healthy but taste…less than inspiring, almond milk is actually delicious. It has a light, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that works well straight from the carton, in a post-workout protein shake, or even added to foods like cauliflower mash, scrambled eggs, or omelets for a richer texture.
For anyone looking to stay Paleo without sacrificing taste, almond milk is a simple swap that keeps your diet clean, your meals versatile, and your mornings far more enjoyable.
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