Is It Safe To Drink Almond Milk While Breastfeeding?

Almond oil for lactating mothers may be beneficial; talk to your doctor if you may be allergic to almonds.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anita Gupta, MS Dr. Anita Gupta Dr. Anita GuptaMS Specialty: Gynecology & Lactation Experience: 31 years
Written by , BE Jessica Albert BE Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Baby Growth and DevelopmentExperience: 2 years
Edited by , M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA Swati Patwal M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Food, Nutrition and HealthExperience: 10 years
Fact-checked by , M.Tech Shinta Liz Sunny M.Tech Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health & WellnessExperience: 4 years
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A breastfeeding lady drinking almond milk

Image: ShutterStock

Breastfeeding mothers need to be careful about what they eat and drink since it could affect the baby through breast milk. Some babies may even acquire a taste of what they eat through breast milk. Milk is a common beverage you may consume but is it safe to consume almond milk while breastfeeding?

In general, drinking almond milk offers numerous health benefits as it is high in essential nutrients. It is a vegan, plant-based option for mothers seeking a non-dairy, lactose-free milk substitute. Continue reading to learn if you can drink almond milk when nursing your baby, as well as its nutritional content and health advantages.

In This Article

What Is Almond Milk?

Almond milk serves as an alternative to dairy milk. It is a plant-based nut milk obtained by grinding the toasted raw almonds with water. Almond milk is a nutritious and natural drink that contains no added colors or flavors (1).

protip_icon Point to consider
Plant-based milk lacks vitamin B12; without proper supplementation, their intake may put you at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency (4).

Nutritional Value Of Almond Milk

Almond milk is rich in vitamins and minerals

Image: Shutterstock

Almond milk offers many nutritional benefits, providing similar advantages to consuming whole almonds while breastfeeding. Compared to normal cow’s milk, almond milk is low in both fats and calories. A single cup of sweetened almond milk contains approximately 90 calories and 2.5 grams of fat. On the other hand, a cup of cow’s milk contains 120 calories and 5 grams of fat. Almond milk can also serve as a low-calorie natural drink if you avoid adding artificial flavors and sweeteners to it. A cup of plain almond milk contains 30 calories only!

Additionally, as the almond milk is not an animal-based product, it does not contain cholesterol or harmful saturated fats. However, it only provides 1 gram of protein per cup, whereas a single cup of cow’s milk supplies 8 grams of protein.

Individuals who have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy can safely consume almond milk without worrying about experiencing any digestion problems.

Almond milk is low in fats and rich in vitamin E, vitamin D, Vitamin A, and calcium. It also contains trace amounts of sodium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. All these elements can ensure proper infant nutrition and healthy development of your breastfeeding baby.

Health Benefits Of Almond Milk While Breastfeeding

Here are some of the ways in which drinking almond milk while breastfeeding can work wonders for your health:

  • Enhances Breast Milk Production: The considerable amount of omega-3 fatty acids in almonds may stimulate your hormones, although scientifically not proven to enhance your breast milk quantity and quality. If you are suffering from a poor lactation level, drinking almond milk regularly can have psychological effects only in enhancing breast milk.
  • Boosts Your Immunity: The delicious alternative to cow’s milk is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals. Regular intake of it can improve the functioning of your immune system and keep dreadful diseases and infections at bay. It can boost your pace of recovery post childbirth and safeguard the health of your little one.
  • Protects Bone Health:The calcium and phosphorus content of almond milk helps to ensure better infant development by promoting stronger and healthier bone development in your growing baby. You may increase your calcium intake by adding supplements to your diet with your doctor’s advice.
  • Improves Eye And Skin Health: As a new mother juggling maternal chores taking out time for grooming must be a mission impossible for you! Fret not! Do you know a glass of almond milk not only guarantees good health but also ensures that compliments keep coming your way! Almond milk is a rich source of Vitamin A that helps fight oxidative stress, eliminate free radicals, prevent aging and protect against macular degeneration. The Vitamin E in it can give you a glowing skin and a lustrous mane without any effort!
Almond milk helps fight oxidative stress and prevents aging

Image: Shutterstock

How To Prepare Homemade Almond Milk?

Here is a simple method to enjoy the goodness of homemade almond milk:

You Will Need:

  • 1 cup of raw almonds
  • 3 cups of water
  • 3 Pitted dates
  • A pinch of salt

How To:

  1. Soak the raw almonds in water overnight.
  1. Drain the excess water and rinse the nuts thoroughly.
  1. Add ingredients in a blender.
  1. Churn to obtain a smooth watery consistency.
  1. Filter the frothy mixture using a strainer.
  1. Your homemade almond milk is ready to serve.
  1. You can store the almond milk in your refrigerator for up to three days.

protip_icon Quick tip
Don’t throw away leftover almond meal after making almond milk; it can be used in recipes as a gluten-free flour substitute.

Is Almond Milk Safe While Breastfeeding?

Seek your doctor's approval before adding almond milk to your postnatal diet

Image: Shutterstock

Remember, as a breastfeeding mother, your diet will have a direct impact on your baby’s health too.

Therefore, it is advisable that you seek a nod of approval from your doctor before adding almond milk to your breastfeeding diet or completely replacing cow’s milk with it. Remember to consume it in moderate quantities only as anything in excess during this delicate phase may spell danger for you or your baby.

protip_icon Be watchful
Avoid drinking almond milk if you have nut allergy (5).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can almond milk be a dairy-free alternative during breastfeeding?

Yes. Almond milk is an excellent dairy-free option for breastfeeding mothers (2). Many almond milk brands fortify their products, ensuring they provide you with several essential nutrients.

2. Does almond milk make you gain weight?

A study has shown that substituting dairy products with almond milk may help weight loss rather than gain. It happens due to almond milk’s low-calorie count compared to cow milk (3). However, to ensure these effects, you must consume almond milk free from sugar and other calorie-increasing additives, such as added flavors.

3. Can almond milk cause any side effects in breastfeeding mothers or their babies?

Almond milk is generally considered safe and is not known to cause significant side effects in most nursing mothers and their babies. However, if a breastfeeding mother or her baby has a known almond or tree nuts allergy, it is advisable to avoid consuming almond milk. Some infants may experience digestive discomfort when their breastfeeding mothers consume certain foods. If you notice any adverse reactions in your baby after consuming almond milk, eliminate it from your diet temporarily and observe if the symptoms improve.

4. How does the taste of almond milk compare to other types of milk?

Almond milk has a mildly nutty flavor and a slightly sweet taste. Some individuals may notice a slight aftertaste, which can vary based on the processing method and product brand.

5. Can almond milk help alleviate common breastfeeding issues like engorgement or mastitis?

Almond milk does not have specific properties that may help alleviate breastfeeding issues such as engorgement or mastitis. So, consult your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any breastfeeding issues. The doctor can provide appropriate guidance, personalized advice, and potential treatments to address your situation.

6. How can a breastfeeding mother ensure that she is not allergic to almonds before consuming almond milk?

If you have a history of allergic reactions to tree nuts, avoiding almond milk is advisable. However, if you are uncertain about your allergy status, allergy testing can help provide clarity.

Taking care of the maternal diet while breastfeeding is as important as it was during pregnancy. What you eat or drink will directly or indirectly reach your baby—consuming almond milk while breastfeeding ensures that the proper nutrients will reach your baby. It will also keep your weight in check due to its low calorie and fat content. Besides, it does not contain cholesterol or harmful saturated fats. However, seek your doctor’s advice before adding almond milk to your postnatal diet. If you have any dietary restrictions, such as nut allergies or intolerance, mention them to your doctor. Remember, you should take it in moderate quantities as you would not want to harm your baby

Infographic: Health Benefits Of Almond Milk For Breastfeeding Mothers

Nursing mothers should maintain a balanced and nutrient-rich diet that supports their and their baby’s health. And one food that offers multiple benefits for lactating women is almond milk. So, scroll through the infographic below to explore the advantages of consuming almond milk during breastfeeding.

benefits of almond milk for nursing moms (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Almond milk is a substitute for cow milk high in vitamins (D and E), minerals, calcium, and low in fat and cholesterol-free.
  • Almond milk is recommended for lactating women as it can increase breast milk production, strengthen the immune system, and improve eye and skin health.
  • Women who have nut allergies should avoid the consumption of almond milk during breastfeeding.
  • A doctor’s consultation is advisable before consuming almond milk while nursing.


Almond milk is a popular alternative to dairy milk but has its pros and cons. Learn more about them in this video!

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Almond milk.
    https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/almond_milk
  2. Breastfeeding a Baby with CMA.
    https://gpifn.org.uk/breastfeeding-a-baby-with-cma/
  3. Jozaa Zaidan Al Tamimi; (2016); Effects of Almond Milk on Body Measurements and Blood Pressure.
    https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=66913
  4. Dairy vs. plant-based milk: what are the environmental impacts?
    https://ourworldindata.org/environmental-impact-milks
  5. What You Need to Know When Choosing Milk and Milk Alternatives.
    https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-you-need-to-know-when-choosing-milk-and-milk-alternatives/
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Dr. Anita Gupta
Dr. Anita GuptaMS
Dr Anita Gupta is currently working in University College of Medical Sciences (Medical School) & Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi. She has been practicing as a gynecologist & obstetrician for the past 31 years and as a lactation consultant for 18 years.

Read full bio of Dr. Anita Gupta
Jessica Albert
Jessica AlbertBE
Jessica Albert is a passionate writer who seeks to connect with her readers through wit and charm. Her work aims to invoke curiosity and keep the readers engaged through and through. She has two years of experience working with magazines and e-commerce establishments as a content marketer and editor.

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Swati Patwal
Swati PatwalM.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children.

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Shinta Liz Sunny
Shinta Liz SunnyM.Tech
Shinta is a biotechnologist who is highly intrigued by science and technology. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University.

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