Almond milk can have some possible side effects. However, these side effects occur only due to overconsumption and nut allergies. Some possible side effects are nut allergies, adverse effects on the thyroid gland, high sugar levels, skin reactions, abdominal issues etc.
Bottom line: Almond milk is high in vitamin E and contains healthful fats. Drinking it regularly may benefit your heart.
"Many commercial almond milks contain additives such as sugar, salt, gum, lecithin, and flavors," says Gina Keatley, CDN, a certified dietitian nutritionist at Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy in New York City. "And carrageenan as an additive can cause GI distress," she adds.
Almonds are rich in fiber, which is important for healthy digestion. Almond milk can help in reducing the problems like constipation and other intestinal issues and keep your digestive system healthy.
It it's shelf-stable almond milk, which can be stored at room temperature until it's open, you have about seven to 10 days to drink it once open (as long as the open container is kept in the fridge). This timeframe is a guideline, however — the milk could still be totally fine to drink after those days have passed.
Digestive Troubles
The people who are unable to digest almond flavored milk could have allergic symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting. Jesse Feder, Clinical Dietitian at the Memorial Regional Hospital South, says, “Almond milk will most likely not cause bloating or gas when consumed.”
You Have Inflammatory Problems
Certain types of almond milk are high in carrageenan, which is a thickener that comes from seaweed. It is what makes ice cream have the texture it does. Carrageen, however, makes those who have inflammatory bowel disease or other inflammatory diseases at higher risk.
If you buy your almond milk, make sure to read the label and avoid any brands that contain carrageenan. This common ingredient, derived from seaweed, is frequently found in almond milk and other dairy or faux-dairy products and is used as a stabilizer and thickening agent.
Soy, almond, and cashew milks have a high oxalate content and may be restricted if you have a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Consult your doctor or kidney dietitian for more information on oxalate-containing foods.
Oat milk has the added benefit of being both nut-free and dairy-free, which is a plus for those who may have nut allergies. And oat milk has a higher fat and protein content than almond milk, which helps with satiety."
Almond, coconut and rice milk are bladder friendly options, especially if you crave yogurt. Just make sure to pick IC friendly flavors such as: vanilla, blueberry, peach or raspberry.
Many almond milk brands these days use carrageenan, a thickening agent that has been found to cause all sorts of gastrointestinal issues (as serious as stomach ulcers) and can cause bloating for many people.
Once you open the carton, you generally have about 7 days to drink up before the milk goes bad. This is because opening the container allows oxygen to get in, which then lets bacteria breed.
LACTAID® Milk
Having lactase added to the milk allows those who are lactose-intolerant to enjoy cow's milk without the digestive side effects of abdominal cramps, bloating, and flatulence. This milk is available in many formats, including flavoured varieties. Use as you would regular milk.
Almond milk's alkaline pH can help neutralize stomach acid and prevent acid reflux symptoms. Many people also find almond milk to be a helpful alternative to dairy milk, as lactose intolerance can sometimes contribute to acid reflux.
Similar to laxatives, sweet almond oil can stimulate intestinal nerves to induce bowel movements and transit due to its cholinergic effects [27]. It can also act as a probiotic to increase gut microbiota, particularly intestinal bacteria, resulting in the treatment of constipation [28].
Shelf stable almond milk, in addition to being ultra pasteurized, is packaged in sealed, sterile Terta Pak cartons to allow it to be stored at room temperature when it's unopened. Once opened, the carton should be stored in the refrigerator and most brands state that the milk should be used within 7-10 days of opening.
REFRIGERATED Almond Breeze® is perishable and will spoil if not refrigerated. Unopened SHELF STABLE Almond Breeze® can be stored in your pantry at room temperature up until the “Best Before” or “”Best if Use By”” date printed on top of the carton.