Which milching animal gives us the most nutritious milk with a healthier fat content ratio? Surprisingly, for many, it’s the goat! Sometimes referred to as the “poor man’s cow”, the goat gives you 3.6 gm of protein per 100 gm of milk, which is higher than cow’s milk. Besides protein, goat milk is an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, vitamin A, and several minerals. It is also higher in fat and calories when compared to cow milk.
Goat milk has remained an essential part of nutrition in many developing countries for a long time. Today, the amazing health benefits of goat milk discovered through research have further popularised this drink.
What are the Health Benefits of Goat Milk?
Given the rich content of minerals and micronutrients, goat milk offers several health benefits. It is also more easily digestible than cow’s milk. Let’s explore the health benefits of goat milk further:
- Good for heart health: The fat in goat’s milk is healthier than cow’s milk as the cholesterol level is low. Meanwhile, it contains a higher proportion of fatty acids, including monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids. These fatty acids help in keeping the heart healthy.
- Improves immunity: The rich content of micronutrients and vitamins in goat’s milk can easily ward off infections and boost immunity. It also contains antioxidants that fight disease-causing free radicals, enhancing the body’s immunity.
- Higher nutrition: Besides being rich in iron and calcium, goat’s milk contains certain amino acids that increase the bioavailability of nutrients. It is high in protein, fat, and nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals: Some individuals cannot tolerate milk and dairy products as their bodies cannot produce adequate lactose-digesting enzymes. Being low in lactose content, goat’s milk is ideal for such individuals.
- Good for digestion: Protein is easily digestible, and goat’s milk is abundant in this critical substance. Specific carbohydrates are found in goat’s milk, which can assist in nurturing healthy bacteria in the gut. Hence, another function of goat’s milk is as a probiotic, improving digestion.
- Suitable for diabetes control: Studies have shown that fermented goat milk products such as kefir can enhance pancreatic enzymes and help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Good for bone health: Goat’s milk is also a rich source of calcium and phosphorus, both essential for bone health. Hence, goat’s milk is one of the best nutritional supplements for healthy bones.
Conclusion
Goat milk is usually thicker and creamier than cow’s milk. Notably, goat milk’s protein content is more than cow’s milk. It is particularly rich in vitamin A, while the presence of protein makes this milk easily digestible. The micronutrients present in goat’s milk help fight diseases. So, if you are seriously thinking of shifting to goat’s milk and bidding adieu to cow’s milk, you can do yourself one more favour. Secure yourself and your family with a sound health insurance policy as doing so will help you ride over any unanticipated medical emergencies. We are all well aware of how unpredictable life can be!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.