Are you ready to take charge of your health and embrace the vibrant, pain-free life you deserve? If you're battling autoimmune conditions, you understand the toll inflammation can take on your body. It plays a significant role in the discomforts you experience, making it crucial to fuel your body with foods that fight inflammation. That's where plant-based milks come into play.
Now, you might be wondering how inflammation relates to autoimmune conditions. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or foreign invaders. However, in autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells as threats, triggering a never-ending cycle of inflammation. This, in turn, causes some serious discomfort.
So, why specifically opt for plant-based milks over traditional dairy? Dairy milk, a classic staple in many households, can exacerbate inflammation due to certain proteins and sugars present in cow's milk. Plant-based milks offer a delicious, creamy alternative that not only avoids these inflammatory triggers but also provides a plethora of additional benefits.
Benefits of Plant-Based Milks
- no hormones
- heart healthy
- lower in fat and calories
- less sugar
- environmentally friendly
- dairy allergy and intolerant friendly
I grew up on a dairy farm loving the fresh, raw milk for drinking and pouring on my Cheerios every morning. Simply put, acquiring autoimmune disorders required some necessary adjustments if I was going to manage my health in the best and natural way possible. Eliminating dairy was an absolute necessity for me. In addition, since I have Celiac Disease, I also gluten cross-react to many other foods so not all plant-based foods are agreeable to me. Tigernut milk, however, has been a life-saver. Derived from nutrient-rich tiger nuts, this velvety milk is a warrior against inflammation.
Benefits of Tigernut Milk
- considered a "super food"
- good source of Vit C and E (important antioxidants that cow's milk does not contain)
- fiber (resistant-starch fiber that acts as a prebiotic)
- anti-inflammatory properties (beneficial for IBS, Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis)
- promotes bone health (contains 80% of daily recommended value of calcium)
- supports immune function
- supports heart health (contains high amounts of arginine, magnesium and potassium ... more than cow's milk)
- helps prevent acetaminophen-induced liver damage (see study here)
How to Make Tigernut Milk
There are many ready-made milks available on the market. However, most of these are highly processed and contained many added ingredients, which, in themselves, can be highly inflammatory.
Plant-based milks are very easy to make at home. Why not give this Tigernut Milk recipe a try. (I get my tigernuts here.)
To make your glass of tigernut milk even more delightful and potentially enhance its anti-inflammatory properties, consider adding some powerful ingredients. A sprinkle of turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, lends not only a vibrant hue but also boasts potent anti-inflammatory properties. This powerful spice has been known to enhance the production of enzymes that help you break down fats and sugars, while also working to prevent the formation of gallstones. Not only that, but it also has the potential to provide relief from stress-related stomach discomfort by inhibiting the release of histamine in the stomach. A dash of cinnamon, known for its blood sugar regulatory qualities, can enhance the flavor and offer additional antioxidant benefits. Toss in a handful of antioxidant-rich berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for added flavor and anti-inflammatory goodness.
Most turmeric on the market is not very bioavailable. I like to get the most for my money which is why I was happy to find one that is 24% more bioavailable than the others PLUS it contains prebiotics for even more "lower hemisphere plumbing" benefits. You can check out all of its benefits here.
Plant-based milks come in all different varieties from fruit, grains, seeds, nuts and legumes. By incorporating your favorite plant-based milk into your daily routine and experimenting with these powerful add-ons, you can fuel your body with nature's anti-inflammatories. These little changes may have a big impact, reducing discomfort and supporting your immune system in its quest for balance. Remember, it's not just about eliminating what doesn't serve you, but about embracing what nurtures you from within.
So, my fellow wellness warriors, let's raise our glasses (of tigernut milk ... or your favorite milk) to a vibrant, pain-free life. Embrace the deliciousness of plant-based milks and let them work their magic on your autoimmune journey. Remember, you have the power to be the best version of yourself, and plant-based milks can be your tasteful allies along the way.
Want to find out what specific areas of your body are in need of balance? It takes only 30 seconds. Learn more about my health and wellness remote scans here.
Resources:
0 Comments