The benefits of dairy-free choices can be life-changing for the better. Though dairy has some benefits, we don’t necessarily need it in our diets, even though it is often listed as a major food group. Many of the health benefits found in dairy can be found in other foods.

To start, dairy consists of all milk and its derived products. This means items such as cream, half-and-half, ice cream, yogurt, cheese, sour cream, butter, and goat or sheep milk. There are also lesser-known baked goods that usually contain dairy, and even the sauces in restaurants can have it too.

Some benefits of a dairy-free diet include weight loss, better skin, and digestion among others. Some believe in the presence of growth hormones in milk, while others point to spikes in sugar and insulin upon consuming lactose. Many people report bloating and cramps going down after cutting out dairy.

If you are looking to cut out dairy from your diet, make sure to still get enough calcium and other nutrients. Vegetables and different seafood like salmon can be a good way to get calcium, particularly dark green, leafy vegetables like collard greens and kale.

You may also want to try substituting your dairy products used for cooking. For example, use olive oil instead of butter, oat milk instead of regular milk, and avocado instead of sour cream.

If there is one place to start when looking to cut out dairy, it’s certainly full-fat milk, or whole milk. Whole milk is loaded with saturated fat, which leads to unhealthy cholesterol, and should be avoided as best you can.

In conclusion, the benefits of a dairy-free diet are immense. Not only is there a strong chance of losing weight, but you may see clearer skin and better digestion. You can still get all the nutrients you need, just in a much healthier way without dairy. At SoLé SoupS, we understand the need for healthier options. Try our carrot-ginger, our beef bone broth, and many others that will have you feeling light on your feet. For more delicious ideas visit us in Agoura Hills and Thousand Oaks and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date.