Are you struggling with candida overgrowth and wondering if you can still enjoy the benefits of almond milk?
Look no further! Almond milk is a popular dairy-free alternative that is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits.
From aiding in weight maintenance to promoting healthy cholesterol levels, almonds are a powerhouse of nutrients. But can you still consume almond milk while battling candida?
In this article, we will explore the relationship between almond milk and candida, and provide you with some tips on how to incorporate this nutritious milk into your diet without compromising your health.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of almond milk and candida!
Can You Drink Almond Milk With Candida?
The short answer is yes, you can drink almond milk with candida. In fact, almonds are one of the best sources of fats that can help heal candida overgrowth. Almonds are also one of the few alkaline nuts, which means they can help balance the body’s pH level and fight off candida.
However, it’s important to note that not all almond milk is created equal. Store-bought almond milk often contains added sugars and preservatives, which can feed candida and worsen symptoms. It’s best to make your own almond milk at home using raw, unsalted almonds.
When making almond milk, be sure to spread the leftover pulp on a baking sheet and dehydrate it to use in other recipes. This pulp is packed with nutrients and can be added to smoothies, chia pudding, oatmeal, porridge, dessert bowls, muffins, cakes, or brownies.
Understanding Candida Overgrowth
Candida overgrowth is a common condition that occurs when there is an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. Candida is a type of yeast that lives in the digestive tract and can cause a variety of health problems if it grows out of control. While vaginal yeast infections are one way candida manifests in women, other forms of yeast infection include athlete’s foot, ringworm, oral thrush, jock itch, and other fungal skin irritations.
Candida overgrowth can occur for a variety of reasons, including a diet high in sugar and processed foods, antibiotic use, hormonal imbalances, and a weakened immune system. When candida grows out of control, it can cause symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, skin rashes, and more.
To combat candida overgrowth, it’s important to follow a gut healing diet plan that eliminates processed foods, added sugars, and difficult-to-digest starches that worsen leaky gut and encourage yeast overgrowth in a damaged gut. This means eliminating grains (and corn), dairy, refined white sugar, honey, maple syrup, processed soy, processed foods (junk like Doritos and packaged foods), and some people may need to exclude difficult-to-digest polysaccharide starches like potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnip, cassava. Certain legumes are okay for some folks and low sugar fruit like blueberries and green apples can be consumed in small amounts.
In addition to dietary changes, herbal protocols can also be helpful in treating candida overgrowth. Pau d’arco herbal tea and bone broth are both great options for healing the gut and killing off yeast. Coconut oil is also a powerful yeast killer and can be consumed daily to help combat candida.
It’s important to note that everyone’s healing diet will look different based on their microbiome and health history. Some people may need more carbs than others during this treatment and it’s a myth that you need to avoid yeast-containing foods on a candida protocol. Mushrooms are also fine despite what you’ve heard.
The Benefits Of Almond Milk
Almond milk is a popular alternative to dairy milk, especially for those who are lactose intolerant or on a vegan diet. But did you know that almond milk also has numerous health benefits? Here are some of the benefits of almond milk:
1. Low in calories: Almond milk is lower in calories compared to cow’s milk, making it a great option for those trying to lose weight.
2. High in nutrients: Almond milk is rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin E, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy bones, skin, and muscles.
3. Low glycemic index: Almond milk has a low glycemic index, which means it doesn’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good option for those with diabetes or those trying to manage their blood sugar levels.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties: Almonds contain polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming almond milk can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health.
5. Good for heart health: Almond milk is low in saturated fats and cholesterol, which makes it good for heart health. It can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
6. Good for skin health: Almond oil is often used in skincare products due to its moisturizing properties. Consuming almond milk can also help improve skin health and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
The Relationship Between Almond Milk And Candida
Almond milk can be a great addition to a candida diet due to its many health benefits. Almonds contain significant quantities of polyphenols, including flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, and tannins. These polyphenols have high antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and anti-viral activity, which can help fight off candida overgrowth.
In addition, consuming almonds can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels by lowering LDL-C or “bad” cholesterol, which is a risk factor for coronary heart disease. Almonds also aid in weight maintenance and glucose regulation, making them beneficial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
However, it’s important to remember that almond milk should be consumed in moderation as it still contains natural sugars. It’s also best to avoid store-bought almond milk that contains added sugars and preservatives, which can feed candida and worsen symptoms. Instead, make your own almond milk at home using raw, unsalted almonds.
How To Incorporate Almond Milk Into Your Candida Diet
If you’re following a candida diet, incorporating almond milk into your routine can be a great way to add variety and nutrition to your meals. Here are some tips on how to do it:
1. Make your own almond milk: As mentioned above, store-bought almond milk often contains added sugars and preservatives that can worsen candida symptoms. Making your own almond milk at home is easy and ensures that you’re consuming only the best ingredients. Simply soak raw, unsalted almonds overnight, blend them with filtered water, and strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth.
2. Use almond milk in smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to pack in nutrients and satisfy your sweet tooth without consuming added sugars. Try blending almond milk with frozen berries, spinach, and a scoop of plant-based protein powder for a filling and delicious breakfast.
3. Use almond milk in baking: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free substitute in many baked goods. Try using it in place of cow’s milk in recipes for muffins, cakes, or pancakes.
4. Use almond milk in oatmeal: If you’re tired of plain old oatmeal, try cooking your oats with almond milk instead of water for a creamy and flavorful breakfast.
5. Use almond milk in coffee or tea: If you’re used to adding cream or sugar to your coffee or tea, try using almond milk instead. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and creaminess without the added sugars.
Remember, while almond milk is a great addition to a candida diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation and avoid any store-bought varieties that contain added sugars or preservatives. Stick to homemade almond milk and use it as a way to add variety and nutrition to your meals.
Other Dairy-Free Alternatives For Candida Sufferers
If you’re looking for other dairy-free alternatives to incorporate into your diet while battling candida, there are plenty of options available. Here are a few:
1. Coconut milk: This non-dairy milk is a great alternative to regular milk and can be used in a variety of recipes. It’s also a good source of healthy fats and can help boost your immune system.
2. Cashew cheese: If you’re missing the taste of cheese, try making your own cashew cheese at home. It’s easy to make and can be used in place of regular cheese in recipes like pizza, lasagna, and quesadillas.
3. Nutritional yeast: This is a great alternative to cheese if you’re looking for a savory, cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast is packed with nutrients and can be sprinkled on top of popcorn, salads, or roasted vegetables.
4. Tempeh: This fermented soy product is a great source of protein and can be used in place of meat in recipes like stir-fries, tacos, and sandwiches.
5. Kombucha: This fermented tea is a great way to add probiotics to your diet and can help improve gut health. It’s also a tasty alternative to sugary drinks like soda.
Remember, when choosing dairy-free alternatives, it’s important to read labels and avoid added sugars and preservatives. Stick to whole food options and make sure to incorporate a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your diet to support your body’s natural healing process.
