Both of the ladies above produce milk, but did you know there are significant differences between them? When I eat dairy, I stick to goat (or sheep’s) milk. Here’s why…
Cow vs. Goat milk
- Allergies – Many people are allergic to cow’s milk due to their body’s reaction to the A1 beta-casein protein. Goat’s milk contains the A2 beta-casein protein, and as a result, studies show that 93% of infants with a cow milk allergy can drink goat’s milk without side effects.
- Free-Radicals – Manufacturers commonly homogenize cow’s milk to prevent separation of the cream and underlying milk. This homogenization process releases a free radical (called Xanthine Oxidase) in the milk, which scientists believe can possibly lead to cardiovascular disease or cancer. Goat’s milk is naturally homogenized and thus doesn’t go through the industry’s homogenization process.
- Inflammation – Health experts have linked the A1 protein found in cow’s milk to inflammation and excess mucous production in the gut and intestine. Since goat (and sheep) milk contain the A2 protein, they are thought to be less inflammatory than cow’s.
- Digestion – Goat’s milk is comprised of smaller fat globules than cow’s milk, thus making it easier and quicker to digest. Goat’s milk also contains less lactose than cow’s. Studies show those suffering from lactose intolerance find it easier to digest goat’s milk.
- Protein – Goat’s and cow’s milk are both good sources of protein, each with a little over 8g per cup.
- Calcium – Goat’s milk has more calcium per cup (327 mg) than cow’s milk (276 mg). If you’re interested in learning more about calcium, why it’s important and how and when to get it, click here!
- Selenium – Cow’s milk has more selenium per cup (9 mg) than goat’s milk (3.4 mg)
- Potassium – Goat’s milk has more potassium per cup (498 mg) than cow’s milk (322 mg)
- Vitamin D – Goat’s and cow’s milk have equal amounts of Vitamin D.
*Remember to only purchase organic dairy. Non-organic dairy contains hormones and toxins that are damaging to the body…
Source
“Beta-casein Protein.” Beta-Casein. http://www.betacasein.org/?p=variants.
Cooke, Thomas R., M.D. “Benefits of Goat Milk vs. Cow Milk.” Mt. Capra. August 20, 2010. http://www.mtcapra.com/benefits-of-goat-milk-vs-cow-milk/.
Joseph, Sally. “Why You Should Give the Regular Cow Juice the Flick.” Sally Joseph. January 3, 2012. http://www.sallyjoseph.com.au/blog/why-you-should-give-the-common-cow-juice-the-flick/.
Morgan, Shelly. “Goat Milk Nutrients vs. Cow Milk”. Livestrong. February 26 2011. http://www.livestrong.com/article/391636-goat-milk-nutrients-vs-cow-milk/
