Calories in Almond Milk: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Unsweetened almond milk is one of the lowest-calorie milk alternatives available, with approximately 30 calories per 8 oz cup. It is naturally lactose-free, low in carbohydrates, and often fortified with calcium and vitamin D to match the nutritional profile of dairy milk. The calorie count rises noticeably with sweetened and flavored versions due to added sugars.

Calories by serving size:

Almond milk gets most of its calories from heart-healthy unsaturated fats, with very little coming from protein or carbohydrates. Most commercial brands are fortified to provide 35 to 45 percent of the daily recommended calcium per cup, which is comparable to or even higher than cow's milk. Choosing unsweetened varieties keeps the calorie count minimal while still delivering the fortified nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does almond milk compare to cow's milk in calories?

Unsweetened almond milk has about 30 calories per cup, compared to 150 calories in whole cow's milk and 90 calories in skim milk. This makes almond milk roughly 70 to 80 percent lower in calories than most dairy milk options. However, cow's milk provides significantly more protein at 8 grams per cup versus only 1 gram in almond milk.

Why is almond milk so low in calories?

Almond milk is mostly water with a small amount of ground almonds, typically making up only 2 to 3 percent of the total product. A cup of almond milk contains the nutritional equivalent of just a few whole almonds, which is why the calorie count is so low. The straining process removes most of the fiber and fat found in whole almonds.

Is almond milk healthy?

Almond milk can be a healthy choice, especially for those who are lactose intolerant, watching their calorie intake, or following a plant-based diet. Most brands are fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E, making it nutritionally comparable to dairy milk in those micronutrients. The main drawback is its very low protein content, so it should not be relied upon as a protein source.

How much protein does almond milk have?

Almond milk contains only about 1 gram of protein per 8 oz cup, which is significantly less than the 8 grams found in cow's milk or the 7 grams in soy milk. This low protein content is one of the biggest nutritional trade-offs when choosing almond milk over dairy. If protein is a priority, soy milk or pea protein milk are better plant-based alternatives.

What is the difference between sweetened and unsweetened almond milk?

Unsweetened almond milk has about 30 calories and less than 1 gram of sugar per cup, while the original sweetened version has around 60 calories and 7 grams of added sugar. The vanilla unsweetened variety stays at 30 calories by using calorie-free flavoring instead of sugar. Choosing unsweetened cuts the calorie count in half and eliminates added sugars entirely.