Dairy products have been an integral part of the food culture, imagination and value system of our society for generations. While it’s hard to move away from the comfort foods of childhood, many people suffer health problems when they consume them. Moreover, milk production raises many environmental and ethical issues, and for some, this option no longer reflects their values.
However, today still, cow’s milk is still introduced into infants’ diet from the outset, which often causes food intolerances or allergies. Reactions to bovine proteins (caseins) have been reported increasingly in people of all ages but especially in infants.
Fortunately, in recent years, there’s been a real turnabout. Alternatives to dairy products abound in natural food stores and supermarkets. A vegan diet is being promoted more and more often, as are the merits of a dairy-free diet. But, beyond the latest trends, this type of diet truly offers a full range of benefits, as testifies by a growing number of studies. Although it’s critical to distinguish what’s true from what’s false, it’s possible to achieve remarkable results by trading in conventional cheese, yogurt and milk for products from vegetable sources.
And what are the potential results of making this dietary change? In addition to increased energy and concentration levels, your intestinal health will only get better. Also, if you have asthma or respiratory problems, expect a sharp decrease in symptoms. You’ll enjoy healthier-looking skin and be less at risk of developing cancer; dairy products increase acidity in the body and cancer cells develop in an acidic environment. And finally, if you’re concerned about the environment, your conscience will be clear!
But what about calcium intake? Can plants alone provide enough? Absolutely! This vital mineral, essential to bone and overall health, is found in abundance in plants. And what’s more, the body can better assimilate calcium in plant foods than in milk. By adding regular physical activity sessions to the mix along with a dose of vitamin D, you can boost its absorption exponentially!
Another way to maintain adequate calcium reserves is to include leafy green vegetables, oranges, chickpeas, red and white beans, almonds, sesame and chia seeds, coconut milk and herbs such as basil, oregano, parsley and thyme in your diet. The Smile Organic Co. products complement a healthy diet and are designed to provide a healthy dose of calcium, vitamins and minerals for the whole family, without added refined sugars, additives or questionable ingredients.
If you do choose to switch to a dairy-free diet, the best way to make informed choices is to do your own research rather than being swayed by marketing campaigns. That way, when you take a trip to the supermarket, all you’ll need to do is read labels carefully because many products that seem healthy at first sight are low in nutrients and contain many artificial ingredients.
