I've been eating dairy-free for 15 years. I didn't expect it to affect my social life.

Courtesy of Stephanie Claytor

• In my third year in college, I suddenly started having issues whenever I ate dairy.
• I stopped eating it, and have remained dairy-free for the last 15 years.
• It's harder to eat at social events, but I've also found dairy alternatives I love.

I grew up eating grilled cheese sandwiches and Frosted Flakes with milk. There was nothing I enjoyed more than going to the ice cream shop.