Going dairy-free for good health has become a popular choice. Many people, including young children, have developed an intolerance to dairy for various reasons. Whether it’s a lack of enzymes to properly digest the dairy, or an allergy to one or many of the proteins found in dairy, managing dairy intolerance can be difficult. However, the benefits of a dairy-free lifestyle can be seen in improved overall health and better digestive health.
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The Managing Dairy Intolerance Problem
A dairy intolerance can be caused by various factors, such as an autoimmune disorder, or a lack of certain enzymes needed to break down and process foods containing dairy proteins. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but some common signs of dairy intolerance include digestive issues, skin rashes, and congestion.
In some cases, in addition to dairy proteins causing intolerances, certain chemicals and pesticides used in commercial milk production can also lead to sensitivities. This is why it is important to get a clear diagnosis on managing dairy intolerance before making the choice to avoid dairy entirely.
Why Ditch Dairy?
By removing dairy from our diets, we’re able to reduce digestive symptoms. As a result, we can experience fewer flare-ups, less inflammation, and an overall improvement in our overall health. A dairy-free diet can also help us reduce our intake of saturated fats and other unwanted chemicals commonly found in conventional milk production.
Dairy is known to be a source of high-fat foods. By removing this from our diet, we’ll be able to control our weight much more easily. Furthermore, when coupled with a balanced diet full of fruits and veggies, a dairy-free lifestyle can also result in improved skin quality, as you’ll be cutting down on foods that can lead to breakouts.
Getting Started on Managing Dairy Intolerance
If you’re looking to switch to a dairy-free lifestyle, it’s important to watch out for hidden sources of milk proteins. This means carefully reading food labels to make sure there’s no inclusion of milk and its derivatives, such as lactose, casein, and whey. Avoiding dairy at restaurants can also be a challenge.
If you’re unsure of what to stock up on, try to make sure your meals are dairy-free and as nutrient-dense as possible. Start by incorporating the best dairy free foods, such as additional plant-based proteins, such as legumes, nuts, and grains.
Fruits and vegetables are great additions to any diet, as they provide a good source of dietary fibre, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, plant-based “milks” such as almond and oat are good substitutes for milk, and can be swapped for milk-based coffee creamer and milk-based sauces.
Making Lifestyle Changes for The Long Term
It’s important to remember that a dairy-free diet isn’t an easy fix. To properly manage your intolerance, it’s important to look at your overall lifestyle and make sure that there’s a good balance of good food and physical activity.
In particular, try to move your body on a regular basis. Exercise helps basic physical functions, such as digestion, circulation, and respiration. Not to mention, it’ll also help to regulate hormones, relieve stress, and boost your mood.
Finally, be sure to stay mindful of your body and listen to it. Take time to rest and engage in activities you enjoy. You’ll be surprised what a difference all the small changes can make to your mental and physical health.
A Dairy-Free Lifestyle For Optimal Health
A dairy-free diet can be beneficial for those who have difficulty digesting the proteins found in dairy. But it isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Make sure to speak to your GP and get a diagnosis before making the switch. With the right lifestyle and dietary changes, however, you can feel the benefits of improved overall health and digestion—all the while still using dietary modifications that work for your own lifestyle!