Lactose intolerant? Take a crash course in milk alternatives with co-founder of Thailand’s Kamalaya health resort (kamalaya.com) and doctor of traditional Chinese medicine Karina Stewart.

Seed and nut milks are the new black (or white, rather).

“Rich in phytosterols, they can reduce cholesterol, enhance immunity and decrease the risk of certain cancers,” Stewart says.

“The beauty of these seed and nut milks is their versatility; you can serve them chilled or heat them up for cold winter days or as a bedtime elixir.”

Almond milk

  • A ¼ cup of almonds supplies 25% of daily magnesium.
  • Rich in potassium, manganese, copper, zinc, folic acid and calcium.
  • High in the antioxidants vitamin E and selenium
  • Help to reduce risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
  • May help to reduce risk of certain cancers.

Sunflower Seed Milk

  • Excellent source of vitamin E, the body’s primary fat-soluble antioxidant.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice for those with asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis – in fact, with all conditions where free radicals and inflammation play a big role.
  • A good source of vitamin B1, manganese, magnesium, copper, selenium, phosphorus, vitamin B5 and folate.
  • The manganese can help to prevent migraine headaches and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Pumpkin Seed Milk

  • A very good source of phosphorus, magnesium and manganese.
  • A good source of zinc, iron, copper, protein and essential fatty acids.
  • A great drink for men, as it can improve the symptoms associated with prostate enlargement.

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