Should You Take A Break from Dairy?

Have you ever tried going dairy-free? This is when you avoid milk and milk products like cheese, butter and sour cream to potentially reduce things like allergies, acne, fatigue, and weight gain. It might sound depressing to stop eating these deliciously fatty foods but learn about the benefits of taking a break from dairy. Here are some signs that it might be time.

Acne buildup

Have you noticed more acne appearing on your face or body than usual? This could be a way of letting you know you have a dairy intolerance.

Women’s Health states that “Milk may be an acne trigger, so going dairy-free could also help you become zit-free. According to research from Dartmouth Medical School, milk contains testosterone-like hormones, which may stimulate oil glands in the skin and contribute to breakouts.”

Teenvogue.com adds, “Dr. Frank Lipman notes that classic symptoms of dairy sensitivity and allergies are mucus production, respiratory problems, digestive symptoms (such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation), fatigue, joint pains, and skin problems ranging from rashes to acne.”

Try taking a break from dairy and see if your face clears up. Mine did!

Gaining weight 

Generally, if you’re consuming a healthy diet and feel satisfied after your meals, it’s a good indication that the nutrients have been absorbed properly. Too much dairy, however, can throw things off.

Teenvogue.com says, “There are over 60 hormones in a glass of milk.” This creates an abundant amount of hormones within our own bodies which can lead to overeating.

This irregular hunger can cause weight gain. If the body has a dairy sensitivity, it can’t digest the protein accordingly and can create unneeded fat.

Craving cheese? Get a dairy-free option

If you’re taking a dairy break but still love your cheese, try some dairy-free options. Treeline Cream Cheese, Miyoko’s Mozzarella, and Jule’s Vegan Brie are fabulous alternatives!

Katie Couric Media states, “If you’re going dairy-free, there’s a pretty strong likelihood that you’ll be craving traditional cheese, which means finding an alternative that you like is vital. I enjoy Daiya’s cheeses — not for assembling a cheese plate (that’s when you have to find a local nut cheese purveyor), but for using as a topping on dishes like eggplant parm or salad. But even more so, I’m beyond grateful to Daiya for creating a creamy-as-heck mac ‘n cheese.”

Care for the planet and animals

When we become more aware of the green concept, we can get on board with these dietary changes that much faster.

Medical News Today states “Many people are moving towards dairy alternatives for a variety of reasons, including better health or to reduce their impact on the planet.”

If you’re ready to go dairy-free, here are some things to keep in mind. Be sure to avoid foods that contain any of the following ingredients:

• Artificial butter flavor
• Butter, butter fat, butter oil
• Casein, casein hydrolysates
• Caseinates (ammonium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium)”

If you want to dig deeper to see how your body tolerates dairy, a blood sugar test can determine your sensitivity.

For now, enjoy this short dairy break as best you can, and see how your body adjusts to some new dairy-free food choices. There are so many more than you think.

-Blue Bliss

Photo: Pixabay