Are you considering doing the Whole30 diet but worried about giving up your beloved almond milk? Fear not!
Contrary to popular belief, you can still enjoy almond milk while on Whole30. In fact, it’s one of the few “milks” that are compliant with the diet.
But before you go out and stock up on every brand of almond milk you can find, there are a few things you need to know.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of almond milk on Whole30, including which brands are compliant and how to incorporate it into your meals.
So grab a glass of almond milk (Whole30 approved, of course) and let’s dive in!
Can I Have Almond Milk On Whole30?
Yes, you absolutely can have almond milk on Whole30! While dairy is not allowed on the diet, nut-based milks like almond milk are compliant as long as the ingredients are Whole30 approved.
It’s important to note that not all almond milks are created equal. Many brands contain added sugars and non-compliant ingredients, so it’s crucial to read the labels carefully before purchasing.
To make things easier, there are a few brands that have been approved by Whole30, including New Barn and Nutpods. These brands offer unsweetened almond milk with minimal ingredients that meet the diet’s standards.
What Is Whole30 And Why Is Almond Milk Allowed?
Whole30 is a nutrition plan that encourages the consumption of whole foods for 30 days. The diet eliminates certain food groups such as sugar, alcohol, grains, legumes, soy, and dairy. The goal of the program is to reset the body’s metabolism and improve overall health.
Almond milk is allowed on Whole30 because it is a nut-based milk that does not contain dairy or other non-compliant ingredients. However, it’s important to note that not all almond milks are Whole30 compliant. Some brands contain added sugars, stabilizers, and other non-compliant ingredients.
To ensure that almond milk is compliant, it’s important to check the label for Whole30 approved ingredients. Look for brands that offer unsweetened almond milk with minimal ingredients such as water, almonds, and sea salt.
Choosing A Compliant Brand Of Almond Milk
When it comes to choosing a compliant brand of almond milk for your Whole30 diet, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure to read the label and ingredients list carefully. Look for almond milk that is unsweetened and free of any additives or non-compliant ingredients such as carrageenan or soy lecithin.
One brand that has been approved by Whole30 is New Barn. Their unsweetened almond milk contains just four ingredients: spring water, organic almonds, acacia gum, and sea salt. Another brand to consider is Nutpods, which offers a variety of flavors including original, vanilla, and hazelnut. Their almond milk is also unsweetened and made with minimal ingredients.
If you prefer to make your own almond milk, it’s important to use Whole30 compliant ingredients such as raw almonds and filtered water. You can easily make almond milk at home using a high-powered blender and a nut milk bag.
Ultimately, the key to choosing a compliant brand of almond milk for your Whole30 diet is to always read the label and ingredients list carefully. Stick to brands that offer unsweetened almond milk with minimal ingredients that meet the diet’s standards.
Homemade Almond Milk Recipe For Whole30
If you prefer to make your own almond milk at home, it’s surprisingly easy and can be customized to your liking. Plus, it’s significantly cheaper than store-bought options!
Here’s a simple recipe for Whole30 compliant homemade almond milk:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw almonds
– 4 cups filtered water
– Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the almonds to a bowl and cover with water. Let soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the almonds.
3. Add the almonds and 4 cups of filtered water to a blender or food processor.
4. Blend on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the almonds are finely ground and the mixture looks creamy.
5. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth into a separate bowl or pitcher.
6. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible, leaving behind the almond pulp.
7. If desired, add a pinch of sea salt to taste.
8. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Not only is homemade almond milk free of additives and stabilizers, but it can also be customized to your liking. For example, you can add a touch of vanilla extract or cinnamon for flavor, or adjust the amount of water for a thicker or thinner consistency.
Ways To Use Almond Milk In Whole30 Meals And Recipes
Almond milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of Whole30 meals and recipes. Here are some creative ways to use almond milk in your Whole30 diet:
1. Smoothies – Almond milk is a great base for smoothies and can be combined with fruits, vegetables, and protein powders to create a delicious and filling meal.
2. Soups – Use almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to cream in soups. It adds a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with savory ingredients.
3. Dressings and sauces – Almond milk can be used as a base for dressings and sauces, like ranch or alfredo sauce. It helps to thicken the sauce while keeping it dairy-free.
4. Baked goods – Almond milk can be used in place of dairy milk in baked goods like muffins, pancakes, and bread. It adds moisture and a nutty flavor to the recipe.
5. Coffee drinks – Use almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to creamer in your coffee or latte. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and creamy texture to your morning cup of joe.
Remember to always check the label of your almond milk to make sure it’s Whole30 compliant before using it in your recipes. With these creative ideas, you can enjoy almond milk on Whole30 while still maintaining the integrity of the diet.
Other Non-dairy Milk Alternatives For Whole30
While almond milk is a popular choice for those on Whole30, there are other non-dairy milk alternatives that are also compliant with the diet.
1. Coconut Milk: Whole30 has approved certain brands of coconut milk, including Native Forest, Natural Value, and Thai Kitchen. These brands offer unsweetened coconut milk with minimal ingredients that meet the diet’s standards. Coconut milk is a great option for those who prefer a creamier texture in their milk alternatives.
2. Cashew Milk: Cashew milk is another nut-based milk that is compliant with Whole30. Brands like Silk and Malk Organics offer unsweetened cashew milk with minimal ingredients that meet the diet’s standards. Cashew milk has a slightly sweeter taste compared to almond milk and is a good option for those who want a milder flavor.
3. Hazelnut Milk: Hazelnut milk is a lesser-known non-dairy milk alternative that is also compliant with Whole30. Brands like Elmhurst offer unsweetened hazelnut milk with minimal ingredients that meet the diet’s standards. Hazelnut milk has a distinct nutty flavor and is a good option for those who want to switch up their milk alternatives.
It’s important to remember to check the labels of any non-dairy milk alternative before purchasing to ensure they meet the Whole30 standards. By incorporating these non-dairy milk alternatives into your diet, you can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures while staying compliant with Whole30.
