Despite all of the beverage's health benefits, though, it had a few drawbacks. Experts say that one of the most common side effects of drinking almond milk is stomach troubles—and an additive called carrageenan is likely to blame.
"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.
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.
Stomach troubles
Excessive almonds can cause digestive issues such as nausea, stomach discomfort, dysentery, and bowel problems if you consume an excessive amount of essential nutrients and minerals. In fact, it can interfere with your medications and can result in severe gastrointestinal reactions in some people.
Dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese, can trigger IBS flare-ups. If you find that dairy doesn't agree well with your stomach, consider switching to dairy-free products such as: Coconut milk or almond milk.
While cow's milk is the most common dairy allergen, people can also have an allergic response to other animal milk, such as goat, sheep, or buffalo. Plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, and rice, can also trigger an allergic reaction.
The true test is how the milk looks and tastes: Once it gets thick, clumps a little, smells off, and tastes sour, it's time to toss it.
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.
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.
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.
“If you tend to have reflux, almond milk is a great balancer,” Chutkan says. “It's alkaline so it helps neutralize acidic foods.
High amounts of lactose can often lead to diarrhea and other IBS symptoms. If dairy and cow's milk products tend to trigger your symptoms, try replacing them with dairy-free alternatives. For example, drink coconut milk or almond milk instead of cow's milk.
Bottom line: Almond milk is high in vitamin E and contains healthful fats. Drinking it regularly may benefit your heart.
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.
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.
Tree nut and almond allergies can cause stomach pain, belching, bloating, cramping, flatulence, diarrhea, and nausea [9]. Stomach cramps could signal a food allergy but can also signal that your body is having difficulty digesting almond fiber [9].
“If you're trying to lean out and [are] watching your calories and carbs, then almond milk is the better choice because it's much lower in calories and carbs and won't impact your blood sugar.” And again, if your top criteria for deciding between oat milk vs almond milk is sustainability, oat milk is the better pick.
Studies have shown a link between heart disease and saturated fat consumption, so one benefit of almond milk is that you're getting your fats from a healthier source. It also has a higher nutrient profile, and contains more potassium, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, magnesium and calcium.
If you experience an itchy mouth or ears, scratchy throat, hives on the mouth, or swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat after eating almonds or other related fresh fruits, raw vegetables, or tree nuts, you may suffer from Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (PFAS) also called Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS).
It Doesn't Cause Inflammation
Assuming you don't have an issue with nuts, almond milk does not cause this same inflammation. It is fairly soothing to the intestines, and in most cases, does not cause the consumer any negative digestive side effects.
While you should avoid caffeine, some people with mild gastritis can tolerate weak tea or coffee with a splash of low-fat milk or non-dairy creamer. Water, herbal tea, non-dairy milk, and low-sugar/low-acid juices are your best options.
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.”