One of THE worst parts of find out I was lactose intolerant was giving up yogurt. I know some lucky few can still eat yogurt without enduring stomach aches and acne, unfortunately I am not one of them. In college each morning I would have a greek yogurt parfait, frozen fruit and chopped nuts so to have my go-to breakfast turned around on me was shook.
But I love to look at this now as an experience to try ALL new different types of yogurts. Back in college there were NOT many great options to go for. Now I feel like when I go to the grocery store there are way more non-dairy options than regular dairy options.
I do want to note that I LOVE plain old dairy filled yogurt and honestly still sneak some if I’m really feeling it, I just love having non-dairy options as just that an OPTION. I don’t go for these because I want to lose weight or I’m afraid of having dairy, the other options just tend to just jive with me better. But live your truth!
Here are some of my favorite non-dairy options to go for. There are different types like coconut, almond milk, soy and even some different ones you wouldn’t even think about going for! Different flavors + different price points, not always trying to break my bank on some yogurt but nothing wrong with treating yourself once in a while if you can.
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When I look for a good dairy free yogurt I am looking for a few key things. One big one for me is creaminess. A big part of yogurt is that creamy smooth texture that rivals dairy yogurt. I find if that is your biggest need, go for a coconut yogurt. They have a great healthy fat that makes their yogurts rich and creamy.
Another aspect is flavor. One big part of that for me is not being super sweet. A lot of all types of yogurts these days have stevia or other potent sweeteners, and for me that makes them WAY too sweet to enjoy. I love a little balance with a little sweetness but where if I want to add my own honey or fruit it isn’t a sugar bomb. If something a little less sweet is a big need for you, aim for plain or the Lava yogurts.
Price is a big one for me. I am a young 20-something professional and I can’t afford to but a yogurt that is going to break the bank. I have a monthly budget and I like to stick to it! Unfortunately most dairy free yogurts are a bit more expensive, but typically bigger brand names like Silk or SO Delicious are a better buy. But keep an eye on sales, Anita’s is a special treat for me when it is on sale and is perfect if you’re looking for a savory choice of yogurt!
If you’re looking for something to dip your toes into the dairy-free yogurt world, go with either Silk option! A well known brand for dairy-free options and you can’t go wrong. This was the one I started with when I first found out I was lactose intolerant and is always a solid choice, not to mention it’s not stocked in almost ALL grocery stores so it is super easy to find.
Now if I had to pick my favorite? I’d say it is a tie between So Delicious plain and Lava raspberry. The plain is SO good as a quick breakfast or snack with a little fruit and even some granola. My fave way to have the Lava raspberry, with some almond butter or peanut butter (or honestly both, I won’t tell). Tastes exactly like the PB&J of your dreams!