We’ve all been raised thinking dairy is good for us. We need to rethink our approach to dairy.

Cow dairy (unless organic and 100 percent grass fed) contain antibiotics and growth factors that are intended to grow baby cows, not humans. Furthermore, regular consumption of cow dairy can result in irritable bowel syndrome and may exacerbate asthma, other respiratory and sinus disorders, and some skin disorders.

Many people find just eliminating dairy alone in their diets is tremendously helpful. And I have to say it, though it may not be of popular opinion. Food lobbyists are a huge issue in this country and the dairy industry is a major one constantly pushing for dairy. They are obviously behind the whole ‘Got Milk’ campaign and are about to start another campaign to combat the rising popularity of alternative milks today.

Here are some great animal product alternatives to cows milk.

Goat and sheep cheese are two delicious swaps that don’t come with all that potential baggage. They have less lactose and are closer to the structure of human milk.  If you want to make a slow transition to go completely dairy-free and vegan, try one of these products first.

• Goat’s milk, yogurt, kefir and cheese
• Sheep’s milk, yogurt and cheese
• Water buffalo milk, yogurt and cheese

I especially love the yogurt products from companies such as Redwood Hill Farm and Old Chatham Sheepherding Company. Redwood Hill also makes great kefir.

Cheese

In addition, there are several great cheeses made with sheep’s, goat or buffalo milk. prefer raw cheese and my local Whole Foods has many.

Non-dairy Milk – No animals necessary!

I would be cautious about the various alternative dairy options at the grocery today. Many popular brands contain carrageen and guar gum, both known to cause gastro distress, as well as a host of other additives. Making your own almond milk is easy and I am going to tell you a quick shortcut too to making 2-minute almond or coconut milk.

Non-dairy Cheese

Try some vegan nut cheese products from companies such as Kite Hill or Treeline too, they are beyond amazing. I actually prefer them to dairy cheese now!

Almond Milk

Why almond milk? It is dairy-free and made from raw almonds and water. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and is a wonderful substitute for cow or goat milk, without the saturated fat and cholesterol. Homemade almond milk tastes incredible because it’s much creamier and fresher than store-bought varieties.
 

Takes just a few simple steps at home and is inexpensive.

The process of making almond milk involves soaking raw almonds in purified water overnight, then puréeing them in the blender. If you don’t have a blender, using a food processor is an acceptable substitute; however, the consistency of the milk when processed in the blender as it’s silkier.

Here is an easy recipe to whip up fresh almond milk.

Almond Milk (Makes 2 cups)

• 1 cup whole, raw almonds
• 2 cups purified water, plus more for soaking almonds
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup-optional or use two dates
• I like to also add a pinch of Himalayan salt

Directions
1. Place almonds in a large bowl and soak them by covering with an inch of water. The almonds will absorb water, so you will see them expand. Let the almonds soak uncovered overnight; the longer you soak them, the creamier your milk will be.

2. Drain the almonds and rinse them under cool water. They should now be soft. Place the soaked almonds in a blender (high-speed preferred) with two cups of water. Blend on high speed for about two to three minutes, or until blended into a fine meal consistency. The water will be opaque and white.

3. Line a strainer with a cheesecloth (or buy a nut milk cloth bag on Amazon) and strain the almonds over a large bowl. Then, pour the almond-milk mixture back into the strainer. Using your hands, press all the almond milk from the almond meal.

4. Taste the milk, and add honey, dates or maple syrup if desired. (I always sweeten mine!) Place in the refrigerator in a sealed glass container for up to two days.

You don’t have to feel bad about wasting any food, because the leftover almond meal can be used in other recipes; and is an easy protein boost. I will promise some pulp recipes soon.
 

Easiest Almond Milk (for when you just need a quick batch)

Just add 1/2 cup almond butter (I prefer raw from Artisana but you can use roasted) and 3 cups water blend in Vitamix. Blend two minutes. You can strain it or use it as is. If straining use a fine mesh strainer. If you are being super lazy you can choose not to strain, just shake it up each time you use it. You can add a little sea salt, sweetener if you need etc.  

Easiest Coconut Milk Ever

Okay so now for the easiest coconut milk ever – Just add 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, 2 cups water blend in Vitamix two minutes. Use a fine mesh strainer and that’s it! You can add more water after for everyday use and a little sea salt, sweetener if you desire.

Easiest Hemp Milk- 30 seconds, No straining and Dairy Free

Of all the milk hacks I have tried, this one is by far the easiest, so quick, n straining and love the creaminess and froth!

Take 1/4 hemp seeds (I use Eaton Hemp), + 5-6 cups filtered water. Blend in Vitamix, no need to strain. Its such an economical alternative too! Sweeten with dates, or whatever you like, if you like sweetened milks.

Try the above alternatives and I promise you won’t miss your regular milk!