Goat milk's hidden benefits: A nutritional powerhouse revealed

Goat cheese is enjoying increasing popularity. It is often produced on small farms in various regions of our country. In the shadow of cheeses, goat milk remains less noticed. It’s a product of high nutritional value, classified as functional food. It has a very rich composition and extraordinary properties. We suggest why it is worth trying.

Although now goat milk is somewhat forgotten, for centuries it has been an important part of the diet. Goats were among the first domesticated animals. It is estimated that people have been drinking their milk for 10,000 years. Now, of course, we can buy goat milk even in discount stores and in pasteurized versions.

Pasteurized goat milk has a mild taste and a thick consistency. Its aroma is natural, and the taste can be described as salty-sweet. Products such as the cheeses mentioned above, kefirs, and yogurts are made based on it. Its composition includes easily digestible whey proteins. They improve the absorption of calcium and magnesium and have anti-cancer, anti-stress, and antibacterial effects. Goat milk contains less casein protein than cow’s milk, making it less allergenic.

What about calories? Goat milk provides a similar amount as cow’s milk (69-84 kcal per 100 ml of the product compared to 65-88 kcal found in 100 grams). It also contains vitamins and minerals. It has more vitamin A, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and elements such as iron, zinc, and manganese than cow’s milk.

When does it help? Goat milk positively affects the cardiovascular system, protecting against the development of coronary disease. It also supports the proper functioning of the nervous system and promotes tooth mineralization. It has been proven that goat milk lowers cholesterol and triglycerides. So what is the fundamental difference between goat’s milk and cow’s milk? They have a different qualitative composition of fat and protein. Goat milk proteins are digested much faster than cow milk proteins. The fat derived from goat milk is also more easily digested. Moreover, goat milk contains less lactose than cow’s milk. However, it cannot be an alternative in nutrition for people with lactose intolerance.

Goat milk can replace cow’s milk. It’s also worth trying other products from it – cheeses, yogurts, and milk for coffee. Considering its nutritional value, it is worth introducing it into the diet. However, one must get accustomed to its taste, which is quite specific.