Decoding the Milk Aisle: Does Almond Milk Have Hormone Disruptors?

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

According to research, around 65% of the adult global population is lactose intolerant, prompting a widespread shift to plant-based milks, including almond milk. Amid this trend, a common question arises: does almond milk have hormone disruptors, and should consumers be concerned about its effects on hormonal balance?

Quick Summary

The fear that almond milk contains hormone disruptors is largely unfounded, as it has negligible amounts of plant-based compounds unlike the animal hormones found in dairy. While some commercial versions contain additives, these can be avoided with careful selection or by making homemade versions. For most healthy people, almond milk is a low-risk option for hormonal health.

Key Points

Almond milk has negligible hormone effects: The phytoestrogens in almond milk are too minimal to significantly impact hormonal balance in healthy individuals.
Low risk compared to dairy: Unlike dairy milk, which contains animal hormones, almond milk is a plant-based alternative free from these animal hormones.
Additives are the real concern: Potential health issues in commercial almond milk are more likely due to additives like carrageenan or added sugars, not hormonal components.
Unsweetened is best: Opt for unsweetened almond milk to avoid the negative effects of high sugar intake on blood sugar and overall health.
Homemade is additive-free: The safest way to ensure no unwanted additives is to make your own almond milk at home, which is a simple process.
Thyroid effects are minimal: While almonds contain goitrogens, the quantity is too low to affect healthy thyroid function in typical consumption amounts.
Consult a doctor with health conditions: Individuals with specific hormonal or thyroid issues should speak with a healthcare provider before making major dietary changes.

What are Endocrine Disruptors?

To understand the concerns about almond milk, it's essential to first know what endocrine disruptors are. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances that can interfere with the body's endocrine system, which regulates hormones. These can be natural or synthetic and can mimic or block the body's hormones, leading to various health issues. Common sources include certain plastics (like BPA), pesticides, and industrial chemicals.

The Phytoestrogen Myth in Almond Milk

One of the main fears regarding almond milk's effect on hormones stems from its content of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant compounds that have a weak estrogenic effect on the body. However, it is a significant misconception to equate this with a human hormone-disrupting effect, especially with almond milk. Here's what the science says:

Low Concentration: The amount of phytoestrogens, specifically lignans, in almond milk is remarkably low compared to other plant sources, such as soy products.
Negligible Impact: Because of the minimal amount, the effects of these phytoestrogens on the human body are considered negligible and are unlikely to cause significant hormonal changes in healthy individuals.
Weaker Effect: Phytoestrogens are much weaker than human estrogen and do not contribute to hormonal imbalances in the way that powerful synthetic EDCs might.

Comparing Plant and Animal-Based Milks

To put the hormone concerns into context, it's useful to compare almond milk with other popular milk types. Cow's milk, for instance, contains natural animal hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, which can be present in higher concentrations than any plant-derived compound in almond milk. Soy milk contains higher levels of phytoestrogens (isoflavones) than almond milk, but these are also considered to have a minimal and often beneficial effect on hormonal health for most people.

Here is a comparison of different milks and their impact on hormones:


Feature	Almond Milk	Cow's Milk	Soy Milk	Oat Milk
Hormone Content	Negligible phytoestrogens (lignans)	Contains natural animal hormones	Higher phytoestrogen (isoflavone) content	Negligible phytoestrogens
Potential Disruption	Minimal risk for healthy individuals	Potential, particularly from exogenous hormones	Minimal risk, studied extensively	Very low risk
Common Additives	Often contains thickeners (carrageenan) and sugars	Varies by production method	Varies; can include thickeners and sugar	Can contain thickeners and sugar
Suitability for Hormonal Concerns	Generally safe; read labels for additives	Avoid if sensitive to animal hormones	Generally safe, but some sensitive individuals monitor intake	Safe and low-risk

Addressing Concerns About Additives

While the hormone concern is largely overblown, some health risks associated with certain commercial almond milks come from added ingredients, not the almonds themselves. Some brands include thickening agents and emulsifiers, like carrageenan, guar gum, and lecithin.

Carrageenan: A food additive derived from red seaweed, carrageenan has been linked by some animal studies to intestinal inflammation, ulcers, and gut issues, though the FDA recognizes it as safe. Many people with digestive sensitivities report improved symptoms after removing it from their diet.
Added Sugars: Flavored almond milks often contain significant amounts of added sugar, which can negatively impact blood sugar levels and overall health. Opting for unsweetened versions is key to avoiding this issue.

The Goitrogen Debate and Thyroid Health

Another point of contention is that almonds contain goitrogens, compounds that can interfere with the thyroid gland's iodine uptake and function. However, experts state that the levels of goitrogens in almond milk are too low to pose a risk to individuals with healthy thyroid function, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Those with pre-existing low thyroid function or iodine deficiency should consult a doctor and ensure they get sufficient iodine from other sources.

How to Choose or Make the Healthiest Almond Milk

For those who want to be extra cautious about what they consume, there are several ways to ensure your almond milk is as healthy as possible:

Read the label: Always check the ingredients list. Look for unsweetened versions with minimal additives. Many brands now specifically label products as "carrageenan-free".
Buy organic: Choosing organic almond milk can reduce the risk of pesticide exposure, another potential source of endocrine disruptors.
Make your own: The surest way to avoid unwanted additives is to make your own almond milk at home. The process is simple, involving soaking almonds, blending with water, and straining. This allows for full control over ingredients and quality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concern over does almond milk have hormone disruptors is primarily based on misinterpretations of the roles of phytoestrogens and goitrogens. In the context of a healthy, balanced diet, the trace amounts of these naturally occurring plant compounds in almond milk are not a cause for concern for most individuals. However, the real issues for some consumers lie with additives like carrageenan and excessive added sugars found in many commercial products. By being an informed shopper, reading labels, or choosing to make it at home, you can enjoy almond milk without compromising your hormonal health. For individuals with specific health conditions, including thyroid disorders, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, almond milk does not contain human or animal hormones. It is a plant-based product, and any natural plant compounds with hormone-like effects, called phytoestrogens, are present in negligible amounts.

Scientific evidence suggests that almond milk consumption does not negatively impact testosterone levels in men. The amount of plant phytoestrogens it contains is too low to have a significant effect on hormonal balance.

Yes, almonds contain goitrogens, but the levels in almond milk are very low. For individuals with healthy thyroid function, these amounts are not a concern. People with pre-existing thyroid conditions should consult a doctor, but moderate intake is generally fine.

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from seaweed. While not a hormone disruptor, some people report digestive issues like inflammation from consuming it. Opting for carrageenan-free almond milk is an option for those who are sensitive.

Homemade almond milk is healthier in that it contains no additives like thickeners or preservatives. However, commercial brands are often fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium and Vitamin D, which homemade versions lack unless fortified.

Beyond added sugar in sweetened varieties, you should look out for thickeners and stabilizers such as carrageenan, guar gum, and lecithin, especially if you have a sensitive digestive system.

For those concerned about hormones, almond milk is considered safer. It contains negligible plant compounds, whereas cow's milk naturally contains animal hormones and can be subject to synthetic hormones to increase production.