Health Benefits Goat's Milk

Health Benefits Goat's Milk

Historically known as the ‘poor man’s cow’, goats are one of the world’s oldest domesticated animals. They have been kept for their milk, meat, hair and skins for more than 10,000 years. These incredibly versatile animals eat pretty much anything and need far less grazing space than cows. In many developing countries, goat’s milk is an important source of protein, phosphate and calcium as cow’s milk is not always available. It has a slightly sweeter, creamier taste, as the fat is evenly suspended throughout the milk, without the need for mechanical homogenization. It's an acquired taste for some people, but it has some benefits over cow's milk, so it may be worth a try.

#1. Lower in Fat
Goat’s milk is a great option for people who want to lose weight. It has less fat, but still maintains the high levels of proteins and essential amino acids found in cow’s milk.Controlling cholesterol levels, maintaining heart health.

#2. Good for those intolerant to cow's milk
People who are sensitive to cow's milk often find they can drink goat's milk with no problems. This is probably something to do with the different protein constituents in the two milks, but more research is needed into this.

#3. Anti-inflammatory
Oligosaccharides short chain sugar compounds to the non-scientific among us are present in goat's milk. These have anti-inflammatory properties, making goat's milk a good choice for people with allergies such as eczema and asthma, and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and various infections. Drinking goat's milk may alleviate some of the symptoms of these conditions.

#4. Easy to digest
Those same oligosaccharides make goat's milk easier to digest than cow's milk. People with intestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's Disease may find goat's milk easier to tolerate. It's closer to human breast milk than any other food, so it's ideal for weaning babies, although it lacks some of the nutrients they need, such as folic acid. Goat's milk is a good choice for convalescents who may have trouble digesting cow's milk as they recuperate. Goat's milk is also a natural antacid, so it can ease heartburn.

#5. Higher in calcium
Goat's milk contains around 10% more calcium than cow's milk, making it ideal for people with bone problems such as osteoporosis, as well as growing children and young adults. Calcium is also good for the teeth, and although 10% extra may not seem very much, it could make a significant difference to bone and mouth health.

#6. Boosts mineral absorption
Goat's milk helps the body to absorb iron and copper, both of which are essential to overall health. People with anemia or other blood disorders could benefit from making the change to goat's milk.

#7. Good for breathing
Goat's milk produces less mucus than cow's milk in the human body. People with respiratory diseases may find that they suffer less congestion and fewer breathing problems if they switch to goat's milk.

#8. Higher in vitamins A and D
Vitamin D is needed for bones and teeth, and to help the body absorb calcium. Vitamin A is essential for good vision and healthy skin. There are more of both of these vitamins in goat's milk.

Overall, goat's milk seems to be more beneficial than cow's milk, so it may be well worth making the change. However, goat's milk should not be viewed as a miracle food. The best way to ensure your body receives all the nutrients it needs is to eat a varied, healthy diet, of which goat's milk can form part.

Fun Facts

1. The world’s most popular dairy product

2. Goats were first kept as domesticated animals 10,000 years ago.

3. Revered in Egypt: milk and cheese were placed in pharaohs’ burial chambers

4. Widely consumed by the Ancient Greeks and Romans

5. Goat’s milk started to become more available again in the 1970s

6. As well as being a good source of protein, goat’s milk is more easily digestible and less allergenic than cow’s milk .

7The plethora of products available now includes goat’s cheese, feta cheese, ice cream, yoghurt, fudge, chocolate and skin care products