Yes, almond milk is generally considered a good, MS-friendly dairy alternative because it's plant-based, often fortified with calcium and Vitamin D, and avoids potential inflammatory proteins in cow's milk, fitting well into anti-inflammatory diets like the Overcoming MS program. Many with MS swap dairy for almond, soy, or oat milks to reduce saturated fat and support brain health, though it's best to choose fortified versions and watch for added sugars or less-recommended ingredients like coconut oil in some products.
It is not recommended to consume low fat dairy products on the Overcoming MS program as they still contains dairy – therefore butrophilin – the protein in cows milk which we advise avoiding if you have MS. Replace dairy products instead with plant-based alternatives such as soy, oat or almond.
Caffeinated drinks like coffee and energy drinks may irritate the bladder, potentially worsening MS-related bladder issues. Sugary sodas and artificially sweetened beverages should also be limited, as high sugar intake can contribute to inflammation, weight gain, and energy fluctuations.
“If you can't have cow's milk, soy milk and rice milk are often the healthiest milk for gut health – especially for people with celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation,” Park said.
AIP compliant dairy alternatives
Coconut milk is the best non-dairy milk alternative. It is AIP-friendly. Oat, hemp seed, almond, flaxseed, and cashew milks are not AIP-compliant because they come from nuts and seeds. Still, they are a better option than cow's milk to heal your gut and reduce symptoms.
While dairy milk can contribute to gut issues, inflammation, and other health concerns, there are plenty of. Coconut milk and hemp milk stand out for supporting a healthy inflammatory response and being nutrient-rich, while almond and hazelnut milk provide delicious, low-carb options.
Almond milk's main cons include being very low in protein compared to dairy milk, containing added sugars and additives like carrageenan in processed versions (potentially causing gut issues), posing risks for those with nut allergies, and having significant environmental concerns due to water usage. It's also not suitable for infants under one year old due to nutritional gaps.
When following an anti-inflammatory diet, avoid eating: Foods high in saturated fats (including red meat, cheese and foods made with saturated fats and oils) Full-fat dairy (such as cheese and whole milk)
Green, black and white teas are all rich in polyphenols – compounds from plants that have strong anti-inflammatory effects. You'll find the highest polyphenol levels in green and white teas.
However, triggers that may provoke or worsen a multiple sclerosis attack include: Heat. Poor sleep. Stress.
Essential Nutrients for Myelin Growth
Lifestyle and home remedies
Almond milk improves brain functioning
Additionally, almonds are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are linked to improved cardiovascular health and better brain function.
Foods That May Trigger MS Flare-Ups
Inflammatory Foods
Since everyone's biochemistry is different, dairy inflammation symptoms can manifest in a wide-variety of problems that can seem unrelated.
To quickly reduce inflammation, use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for acute injuries, combine with anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries, get enough sleep (7+ hours), manage stress, and incorporate gentle exercise like brisk walking. Reducing processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats while increasing omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber provides a powerful, faster response for chronic issues.
Key Takeaways
As fat has more calories by weight than any other nutrient, many dietitians and nutritionists recommend low-fat or skim milk options. Low-fat milk has a higher calcium content by weight than whole milk. An 8-ounce cup meets 29% of your daily value of calcium.
Dr. Gundry recommends non-dairy alternatives like unsweetened coconut milk or hemp milk, and for dairy, A2 milk from goats, sheep, or specific cows (like Guernsey) that lack the A1 casein protein, all to avoid lectins and support gut health, viewing almond milk as a less ideal C-tier option and strongly cautioning against oat milk, per his {platform and {video content https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QAVMEzqc3yI}}.
The consumption of almond milk in large quantities is associated with the potential risk of hypercalcemia, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease. Careful consideration of the mineral content is recommended.
Alcohol appears to have a toxic effect on the thyroid gland and suppresses the ability of the body to use thyroid hormone. Ideally, people with hypothyroidism should cut out alcohol completely or drink in careful moderation.