Are you following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet and wondering if almond milk is a viable option for you?
With so many restrictions on the AIP diet, finding suitable milk alternatives can be a challenge. But fear not, as we explore whether almond milk is AIP-compliant and share some tips on how to make your own delicious and healthy almond milk at home.
So, grab a glass and let’s dive in!
Is Almond Milk Ok On Aip Diet?
Almond milk has become a popular non-dairy milk alternative in recent years, but is it allowed on the AIP diet? The answer is yes, but with some caveats.
While almonds themselves are not allowed on the AIP diet due to their classification as a nut, almond milk made from just water, almonds, and a natural sweetener like honey is considered AIP-friendly. However, store-bought almond milk may contain additives like carrageenan or sugar, which are not allowed on the AIP diet. It’s important to read labels carefully and choose a brand that doesn’t contain these ingredients.
If you want to be extra cautious, making your own almond milk at home is a great option. It’s surprisingly easy and doesn’t have any of the inflammatory additives you’ll find in many store-bought brands. Simply blend raw almonds with filtered water, a pinch of salt, and any additional flavorings or sweeteners you desire. Strain the mixture through an extra fine mesh tea strainer or nut bag to remove any nut particles.
What Is The AIP Diet And Why Is Dairy Restricted?
The AIP diet is a highly restrictive eating plan that is designed to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of autoimmune disorders. It involves eliminating certain foods that are thought to irritate the gut and trigger an autoimmune response. Dairy is one of the foods that is restricted on the AIP diet.
Dairy products contain casein and lactose, which can be difficult for some people to digest. Additionally, dairy products are often treated with hormones and antibiotics that can disrupt gut health and contribute to inflammation. For these reasons, dairy is eliminated from the AIP diet.
However, it’s important to note that not all dairy products are created equal. Some people may be able to tolerate small amounts of high-quality dairy products, such as grass-fed butter or ghee. These products are generally low in lactose and casein and may not trigger an autoimmune response in everyone.
If you’re considering the AIP diet, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet. They can help you determine which foods are safe for you to eat and provide guidance on how to follow the AIP diet in a healthy way.
Is Almond Milk AIP-compliant?
Almond milk can be AIP-compliant if it is made from just water, almonds, and a natural sweetener like honey. However, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing store-bought almond milk, as it may contain additives like carrageenan or sugar that are not allowed on the AIP diet. Making your own almond milk at home is a great way to ensure that it is AIP-friendly and free of any inflammatory additives. By blending raw almonds with filtered water and any additional flavorings or sweeteners you desire, and then straining the mixture through an extra fine mesh tea strainer or nut bag, you can create a delicious and healthy almond milk that is perfect for the AIP diet. So, while almonds themselves are not allowed on the AIP diet, almond milk can be a great non-dairy milk alternative for those following the AIP protocol.
Store-bought Almond Milk Vs Homemade Almond Milk
When it comes to store-bought almond milk versus homemade almond milk, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Store-bought almond milk can be convenient, but it often contains additives like carrageenan and sugar that may not be allowed on the AIP diet. Additionally, most store-bought brands contain only a small percentage of almonds, with the rest being water and other additives. This means that you may not be getting the full nutritional benefits of almonds when you opt for a store-bought brand.
On the other hand, making your own almond milk at home allows you to control exactly what goes into it. You can use high-quality almonds and natural sweeteners like honey or dates, and avoid any additives that may cause inflammation or digestive discomfort. Homemade almond milk also tends to be creamier and thicker than store-bought options, as it contains a higher percentage of almonds. Plus, making your own almond milk is surprisingly easy and affordable.
Ultimately, whether you choose store-bought or homemade almond milk on the AIP diet will depend on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. If you opt for a store-bought brand, be sure to read labels carefully and choose one that doesn’t contain any inflammatory additives. If you have the time and resources, making your own almond milk at home is a great way to ensure that you’re getting the full nutritional benefits of almonds without any unwanted additives.
How To Make Your Own Almond Milk At Home
Making your own almond milk at home is a great way to ensure that you’re getting a pure and healthy product that’s free from additives and preservatives. Here’s how to do it:
1. Soak the almonds: Start by soaking 1 cup of raw almonds in 2 cups of water overnight. This will help to soften the almonds and make them easier to blend.
2. Blend the almonds: After soaking, drain the almonds and rinse them with fresh water. Place them in a blender with 4 cups of fresh water and blend on high for 60-90 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Strain the mixture: Place a nut milk bag or cheesecloth over a large bowl and pour the almond mixture into it. Squeeze the bag or cloth to extract as much liquid as possible, leaving behind any solids.
4. Flavor and sweeten: At this point, you can add any flavorings or sweeteners that you like, such as vanilla extract, honey, or maple syrup. Blend again for a few seconds to incorporate.
5. Store and enjoy: Pour the almond milk into a glass jar or bottle and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake well before using, as some separation may occur.
Making your own almond milk at home is easy, delicious, and a great way to ensure that you’re getting a pure and healthy product that’s free from additives and preservatives. Give it a try and see how easy it can be!
Other Milk Alternatives For The AIP Diet
If you’re looking for more options beyond coconut milk and almond milk, there are other milk alternatives that are AIP-friendly.
One option is tigernut milk, which is made from tigernuts, a tuber rather than a nut. Tigernut milk is easy to make at home and has a slightly sweet taste.
Avocado milk is another option, which is made by blending ripe avocado with water until smooth. This creamy alternative is rich in healthy fats and can be used in smoothies or as a dairy-free cream substitute.
Banana milk is a unique option that can be made by blending ripe bananas with water or coconut milk. This sweet and creamy alternative works well in smoothies or as a base for dairy-free ice cream.
Other non-dairy milks that are AIP-friendly include hemp seed milk and hazelnut milk. As with almond milk, it’s important to read labels carefully and choose brands that don’t contain additives or sweeteners that are not allowed on the AIP diet.
Making your own nut or seed milk at home is always a good option, as you can control the ingredients and avoid any potential allergens or inflammatory additives. With these options, you can still enjoy dairy-free alternatives while following the AIP diet.
