What about strong bones?

These two dairy-centric mottos have been essential parts of the food industry marketingdairyto the masses for years now.

Butdo we really need dairy in our diets?

Dairy products like pitcher milk container yogurt cheese on tablecloth

Shutterstock

Is trying out adairy-free dietpossibly better for you?

Many of uslose the ability to break down lactose, the main ingredient inmilk, as we get older.

Feeling constantly sluggish or tired?

Dairy might have something to do with that, too.

What is a dairy-free diet?

In simple terms, a dairy-free diet is a diet free from lactose.

So, how do you know what to look for?

Is a dairy-free diet the better option?

Could it really be a better option?

“Nothing bad is going to happen if you don’t eat dairy,” says Rissetto.

“Dairy is a major cause of oils in the body and inflammation.

[It’s] known to aggravate acne,” Rissetto says.

“[You might also experience] better digestion as many people are lactose intolerant… ## Who is the dairy-free diet good for?

However, cholesterol is not necessarily a factor.

If I go dairy-free, am I vegan?

What dairy-free alternatives should I buy?

Don’t panic if you are newly dairy-free.

Of course there are.

There are also many lactose-free ice creams available, made from either soy, nuts, or coconut.

Which nutrients do dairy-free diets need more of and how do I get them?

People who lead a dairy-free diet may be concerned about missing certain nutrients from dairy.

It also might be worth consulting a nutritionist to verify you’re getting the nutrients you need.

“There is as much calcium in astalk of broccolias a glass of milk,” assures Rissetto.

There you have itwe’ve been looking for calcium in the wrong places all this time.

Who knew broccoli had just as much calcium as milk?