Dairy alternatives

Dairy alternatives, in a nutshell, refer to foods or drinks that can be used as substitutes for cheese, milk, and other dairy products. Dairy products as well as dairy alternatives are packed with protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. People go for dairy alternatives because of cow milk allergy, lactose intolerance, or strictly follow a vegan diet.

Here are 3 dairy alternatives:

1. Almond Milk: It is made from grounded almonds and it’s a popular alternative to cow milk. It is a good source of healthy fats, low in calories and fat, and can be used in a wide variety of ways such as in cooking, baking, and cereals.
2. Soy Milk: It is made from soy protein isolate and whole soybeans and is quite a great source of proteins. You can use soy milk in cereals, cooking, or even baking.
3. Oat Milk: Known for its creamy taste and texture, oat milk is a good alternative to cow milk and a great source of fiber and carbohydrates. It can equally be used in cereals, cooking, and baking.

Other dairy alternatives include coconut milk, hemp milk, flax milk, and rice milk.

Vegans are individuals who avoid all kinds of animals products from their diet. Instead, they focus on a plant-based diet. A vegan avoids any diet that is deemed to exploit animals. In essence, a vegan diet entails plant foods (vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, and grains).

Vegans eat plant-based alternatives to dairy products which include:

• Milk alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, and oat milk.
• Cream alternatives such as soy cream and coconut cream.
• Yogurt alternatives that are essentially made from coconut, almond, and soy milk.
• Cheese alternatives that are made from soy protein, seeds, and nuts.
  
• Butter alternatives: Examples include coconut oil, olive oil, and margarine.

The period it takes for your body to adjust to a dairy free diet varies from one person to the other. Typically, it takes a few weeks for your body to adjust. However, it is important to note that the lack of lactose in the body could lead to some people experiencing a number of symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation. Others experience zero symptoms. That said, a dairy free diet is not for everyone. You should consider consulting your healthcare professional before making a switch or transitioning to a dairy free diet.