In the United States, almond milk occupies the top spot among alternative milk. People love it for its nutritional value and low caloric content. Indeed, the majority of people find it beneficial.
However, commercially produced almond milk can cause some digestive problems. I have found the consumer a bit skeptical and asked does almond milk cause constipation?
Natural almond milk does not cause constipation. Almond contains dietary fiber and magnesium, which are natural laxatives when turned into milk. Nevertheless, commercially produced almond milk comes with the additive carrageenan. It helps to thicken the milk and may cause constipation.
So is almond milk good for constipation? Well, the answer depends on who is taking the milk and how. The same milk can create a different outcome for adults, toddlers, and babies. If you want to know in detail about the benefits and almond milk side effects, stay with me till the end.
Table of Content
Constipation Definition: All You Need to Know
Constipation is an upset stomach condition when bowel movements become painful and difficult. This makes the defecation process inconvenient. Additionally, you will experience nausea and abdominal cramps.
Signs and Symptoms of Constipation
Here are a few of the most noticeable constipation symptoms in adults and babies:
- Small or hard stools
- Bloating
- Less than 3 bowel movements a week
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Nausea
Short-term constipation is not necessarily a disease. However, if it persists long-term (Chronic constipation), it can lead to digestion diseases.
Does Almond Milk Cause Constipation?
In its most basic form, almond milk is just water and almonds. The nut is stomach-friendly and rich in fiber and magnesium. Therefore, almond milk must be helpful for constipation.
Does Almond Milk Cause Constipation in Adults?
Different additives such as preservatives, sugar, or sugar substitute are added for better taste and longer shelf life. These irritants can cause constipation and other digestive issues.
Additionally, manufacturer milk contains calcium and other nutrients that cause bowel obstructions. Almond milk without calcium carbonate should not be a problem. But the additional calcium can cause kidney obstructs.
Furthermore, people with a tree nut allergy may get constipated with almond extract milk.
Can Almond Milk Cause Bloating and Constipation?
Additives like carrageenan (red algae polysaccharide) in almond extract milk could cause bloating and constipation. The consequences also include stomach gas, heartburn, and aches.
Will Almond Milk Cause Constipation in Toddlers?
Although, almond milk is nutrient-rich and stomach-friendly. However, it does not qualify as milk to medical experts. Thus, babies and toddlers should not drink almond milk.
Toddlers may be constipated by almond extract milk because young children’s stomachs are highly sensitive to high-fiber products.
Can Almond Milk Cause Constipation in Babies?
Almond extract milk has many benefits over cow’s milk. Despite this, almond extract milk cannot be trusted as a breast milk alternative.
The dietary fibers in the almond milk can be too heavy for a baby’s developing digestive system. It can lead to digestive issues, including severe constipation.
Additives in the commercially produced almond milk are not suitable for babies too.
Does Almond Milk Yogurt Cause Constipation?
No, typically, almond milk yogurt does not cause constipation. Almond milk is low in protein than any natural milk. And this low protein content makes fewer probiotic bacteria in any almond milk yogurt.
If someone has lactose intolerance, yogurt is the best option to fulfill dietary nutrition. As almond milk is low in protein and calcium, the yogurt made from the milk will cause fewer constipation issues.
What Milk Doesn’t Cause constipation?
There are many alternatives to natural milk. However, not all of them will ensure healthy bowel movements in the morning. Here I have round up a few milk options that won’t make you feel constipated.
Cow’s Milk
So far, natural cow’s milk is the best milk option that will make you less constipated. The high protein and fat content can be complex for people with lactose intolerance. Otherwise, the good gut bacteria will offer you a freshening experience during the morning duties!
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is high in dietary fiber, just like almond milk. Besides, this milk option will get more saturated fat and sugar. Around half a cup of coconut milk daily can help smooth bowel movements.
Kefir
Kefir is a fermented milk drink from cow’s milk. It can also be made from coconut, oat, soy, or rice milk. You will find it thicker but richer in probiotics than cow’s milk. So, the use of kefir will relieve you from constipation.
Almond vs Soy Milk Constipation
When you compare almond vs soy milk constipation, soy milk will be a better reliever from constipation, especially for babies. Natural almond milk doesn’t cause constipation in adults. However, additives and extra sugar can cause constipation.
On the other hand, soy milk helps soften the stool, especially for babies. A study found that 68% of children who receive soy milk products don’t face constipation issues.
Almond Milk Benefits
Nutritionally, almond milk is loaded with vitamins and minerals. The body receives the following benefits from almond milk:
Reduce Blood Sugar
Almond milk is a healthy option for people with diabetes. Also, for those who avoid sugar due to health or diet concerns. Moreover, almond milk has a high protein and fat content.
Low Carbs Content
Another advantage is the low carbohydrate content. Thus, the blood sugar level remains unaffected. Moreover, it is beneficial to diabetic patients. Almond milk is also great for low-carb diet plans. Furthermore, this helps to maintain normal body weight.
Lactose-Free and Dairy-Free
Almond milk contains no lactose or other dairy nutrient. So, it’s a good option for vegetarians, lactose intolerant, or nut-allergic people.
Some people lack lactose-degrading enzymes. Therefore, lactose passes undigested into their colon. Where it ferments, causing stomach discomfort. As a result, bloating and gas discharge occur, even in some cases, diarrhea attacks.
Good for the Heart
The almond milk available in markets has been treated with chemicals. Such as preservatives, micronutrients, thickening agents, and flavors. Which seem to lower bad cholesterol and increase triglycerides. Although, it raised “good” cholesterol, also known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), by 6%.
Immunity Booster
Furthermore, it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidants that aid in developing immunity. You can reap the health benefits of almond milk as it contains fats that are good for your heart.
Nutritious
Almond milk enriches calcium, protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients. These nutritional values are relatively equal to cow’s milk. But, Almond extract milk is a rich source of minerals and vitamin E.
The table below shows the nutritional content and daily values of almond milk, low-saturated cow’s milk, and some dietary necessities in a cup.
| Nutrients | Almond Milk | Cow’s Milk |
| Sugars | 7.2g | 5 g |
| Calories | 56 | 102 |
| Total Fat | 2.5g | 2.37g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 9.6 mg | 44 mg |
| Potassium | 37 mg | 150 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8.1g | 11.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6g | 0 g |
| Protein | 1.1g | 7.7 g |
Since almonds lack several minerals and nutrients. Therefore, it cannot be used as an alternative to mother’s milk. Nevertheless, this milk should not be consumed by toddlers.
Low Calories.
Calories in almond extract milk are much lower. No doubt, almonds are high in calories. But, unsweetened almond milk contains 30-50 calories. Comparatively, animal milk has 146 calories per cup.
Shortly, almond extract milk is the best weight loss strategy. For weight loss, it requires fewer than 500 calories per day. Thus, replacing dairy products with almond milk is a fruitful habit.
Strengthen Your Bones
Among dairy products, almond milk has the best calcium levels. Indeed, calcium is a crucial component of bones. Moreover, calcium helps maintain the health of nerves, muscles, and the heart.
Prevent Deficiency of Vitamin D
In the body, vitamin D builds strong immunity. Additionally, it is beneficial for the skeletal system and heart.
Vitamin D deficiency can cause laziness, heart disease, and even cancer. Indeed, the best way to get vitamin D is through sunlight. Yet, some people do not get enough vitamin D. Due to long workdays, a poor diet, or darker skin.
Almond Recipe: Homemade Almond Milk
Markets sell almond milk with enriched nutrients. Although, manufactured milk is highly nutritious. Unfortunately, it is somewhat contaminated with preservatives. And added sugar might pose a hazard to human health.
Therefore, homemade almond milk is not only safe to drink but also nutritious. Here’s a recipe for almond milk that you can make home with items in your kitchen.
Ingredient
- Almond
- Water
- Blender
- Sugar or sugar substitute (optional)
Stepwise Procedure
- Put the almonds in water and let them soak
- Let the nuts soak for a few hours, then drain them
- Place 3/4 cup filtered water and the almonds in a blender.
- Combine for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until smooth
- Pour the milk into a strainer
- To taste, add sugar, vanilla extract, or maple syrup.
It’s that simple. Yummy almond milk is ready for you to drink. Please enjoy!
Side Effects of Almond Milk
Almond milk is delicious and has surprising health benefits. It also has some adverse effects on the body. Especially in people with nuts allergies. Here are some side effects of almond extract milk.
Goitrogenic
Nutrients in almonds promote goiter. Because of this, it can affect your thyroid gland. Indeed, it affects iodine assimilation power. This results in enlargement of the Thyroid gland – goiter.
Skin Reactions.
In some people, almond milk can cause allergic reactions. Such as hives, itchiness, acne, and eczema. Indeed, the allergic effects of flavored milk are usually noticeable within 10 minutes to an hour of drinking it.
Abdominal Cramps
Some people can’t digest milk or any other dairy product. Undoubtedly, lactose and dietary elements are nonexistent in almond milk. Still, it causes abdominal cramps and irregular poop.
Wheezing and Troubled breathing
Certainly, asthmatic or other respiratory patients can be allergic to almond milk. Thus, patients feel wheezing and have difficulty breathing.
Constipation
Market’s almond milk may cause constipation in stomach patients or dairy allergic people because it is high in calcium and other additives.
Anaphylactic Shock
The majority of people are allergic to nuts. Consequently, when they consume peanuts, almonds, or any other nuts. They experience rash, low pulse rate, or even shock. Certainly, anaphylactic shock is this type of shock.
Though nuts are used to make almond milk, almond extract milk can be dangerous for people with nuts allergies.
How to Get Rid of Constipation?
To get rid of constipation, consume foods that contain enough dietary fiber. Moreover, these diets should have nutrients that soften your stool. Additionally, keep yourself hydrated.
Diet
Certainly, poop is influenced by your diet. Thus, the poops will regulate if you eat stomach-friendly foods. Here’s a list of foods that can help relieve constipation.
- Vegetables (green peas, broccoli, collard greens, potato, and carrots)
- Fruits (berries, apples, oranges, plums, pears, and kiwi)
- Legumes (navy beans, black beans, lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, and soybeans)
- Whole grains (oatmeal, whole wheat bread, brown rice, and pasta)
- Nuts (peanut, cashew, pecans, walnuts)
- Herbal tea (prepared from fennel or anise)
Additionally, drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated!
Natural Remedies
Certainly, constipation is not a disease. Naturally, you can cure it at home with these simple yet effective remedies.
Consider Taking Probiotics
Probiotics are live microbes that live in the gastrointestinal tract. Indeed, they are beneficial bacteria. Probiotics help the digestive system to work efficiently!
Listed below are the foods that introduce your body to healthy probiotics.
- Yogurt
- Sauerkraut
- Miso
- Kombucha
- Sourdough bread
- Cheese
- Pickles
Consume a Sufficient Amount of Fiber
Dietary fiber is the best way to treat constipation. Indeed, insoluble fiber regulates bowel movements. Try to add high-fiber food items to your diet plan.
Here are a few fiber-rich foods:
- Vegetables (Cucumber, Broccoli, Potato, Turnip)
- Fruits (apples, pear, raspberries)
- Nuts (walnut, Pistachios, Hazelnuts, peanuts)
- Herbal Tea (Green tea, Peppermint tea, Chamomile)
Lemon Water is Good for You!
Certainly, lemon is one of the best homemade remedies for constipation. Lemons relieve constipation naturally. Moreover, citrus acid in lemon flushes toxins from the body.
Drink a glass of water with one or two lemons squeezed in it. Moreover, drink lemon tea.
Tea with Ginger
Ginger is one of the healthiest spices in the world. Also, it is a natural remedy for constipation. Moreover, ginger has natural laxative effects that promote bowel movements.
Moreover, ginger tea helps soften stools and regulate bowel movements.
Tea or Coffee
Caffeine is present in tea and coffee. Unconditionally, digestion is accelerated by it. Consequently, it prompts a desire to poop.
Although tea or coffee helps in bowel movements. However, high intake leads to digestive problems, including constipation.
Maintain Good Bowel Habits
Maintaining good bowel habits is a good approach. Immediately use the washroom when you urge to poop. Otherwise, delaying causes dryness and hardness of feces.
FAQs
Does almond make you constipated?
No, almonds do not cause constipation. Unless the person is allergic to nuts. Obviously, almonds are high in dietary fibers and fats. Thus, constipation can be relieved by eating nuts.
Does almond milk qualify as milk?
Healthcare experts do not consider almond milk to be milk. Therefore, it cannot serve as an alternative to breast milk for infants.
Why does almond milk make you poop?
Almond extract milk is rich in nutrients. Among them, magnesium excites the intestine and forces stools to pass outside.
Which milk is better for constipation?
Soy milk, raw milk, and oat milk all help relieve constipation. Try any of those if you are facing constipation while having almond milk.
Does almond milk upset your stomach?
Indeed, additional chemicals (preservatives, artificial flavor, and sugar) can affect stomach health. Thus, it leads to bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
Does cashew milk cause constipation?
Just like the market’s almond milk, the market’s cashew milk can cause constipation.
Conclusion
Whenever you add a new dairy product to your diet, you should understand how it can benefit or harm your health. Similarly, in the case of almond extract milk, it’s essential to check whether does almond milk cause constipation?
If you are unsure how to drink plant milk, consult your doctor! Also, incorporate good nutrition, exercise, natural remedies, and a healthy lifestyle to eliminate constipation.
