Should I Go Dairy Free?

What is a Dairy Free Diet?

A dairy free diet is one that excludes anything made from animal milk, or more specifically, mammal milk. This includes cheese, yoghurt, butter and kefir to name a few. Many baked goods, dips and sauces contain dairy too, so if you have decided that going dairy-free is for you, make sure to check the ingredient labels to be sure.

Are eggs dairy?

No! Don’t be fooled. Eggs and dairy are often grouped together, but eggs are not dairy despite having some similarities; they are both animal products & both high in protein. The important distinction is that eggs are laid by birds, milk is produced by mammals.

Whilst many people who choose to give up dairy may also choose to give up eggs, for those who are lactose intolerant, or allergic to milk proteins – eggs contain neither. However, it is very possible to be allergic to both milk and eggs, so always seek advice from your doctors if you’re not sure

From cashew cheese to oat yoghurt, almost every dairy product has a dairy-alternative to try. We think our dairy free drinks are a delicious and refreshing alternative to milk for everyone. If you didn’t know already, there is a rainbow of drinks for you to discover.

Is a Dairy Free Diet Healthier For Me?

At Rude Health, we prefer not to label food and drinks as “healthy” or “unhealthy”, “good” or “bad”. When it comes to health, each person is unique, so cutting out dairy may, or may not make you feel healthier depending on your own body and lifestyle. If you are considering making a shift in your own diet, make sure to get support and advice of your doctor first.

There are many reasons that people choose to go dairy-free. For some, it’s a dietary requirement. Symptoms like eczema or bloating after eating dairy products are sometimes recognised as a sign of dairy or lactose intolerance. For others, it is a lifestyle or ethical choice.

If you do decide to go dairy-free, it’s important to remember that dairy is full of nutrients which you’ll want to source from other foods to avoid nutrient deficiencies. Calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 are just a few to consider. They’re essential for keeping your bones, teeth & nervous system healthy. Dark leafy greens, oily fish and nuts contain these essential vitamins – see more calcium rich food ideas here.

Is a Dairy Free Diet More Sustainable?

Lately, the dairy industry has been criticised and boycotted due to the pressure it places on the environment, as well as the maltreatment of animals. A particular concern is the huge amount of water that is required- and often wasted- in order to make just 1L of cow’s milk. While these factors are not to be ignored, not all dairy-alternatives are created equal either. Rude Health has committed to sourcing the best tasting and most sustainable ingredients there are. Other milks might be more affordable but with a harsher trade off on the environment. Our almonds in our Almond Drink are sustainably sourced from Sicily, they’re organic & require less water to grow than Californian alternatives. Likewise, our soya beans are sustainably sourced from Europe and not contributing to any deforestation in the Amazon.

All dairy alternative crops, from soya to almonds to oats, require water to grow, manufacture and transport but some crops are simply more sustainable dependent on where they are grown. We advise doing your own research, from reputable sources, into which dairy alternative is the best option for you.

Can Children Go Dairy Free?

Yes, but with always only with the support of their doctor. Like adults, some children are allergic to dairy, and for them going dairy free is essential. Their doctor will be able to advise on the best way to make this dietary shift. If you are considering making the shift for other reasons, please discuss the matter with your GP. Your doctor will be able to give the best nutritional advice and guidelines in order to ensure the best outcome for your child.

Rude Health & Dairy

At Rude Health, we believe in encouraging whatever diet is right for you and brings you the most joy. What you choose to eat, or not eat is completely individual. But whatever you choose, we encourage choosing the best quality foods and drinks that your budget permits.