Not just cows, 5 other animals that give nutritious milk

Milk is one of the most important sources of calcium, potassium, vitamin D, and protein. Right as we take birth, it is one of the first things we consume, and even as we grow, it is always advised by our nutritionists to continue its consumption. It not only helps maintain bone health, but it also reduces to a great extent the risk of age-related muscle loss. And while cow’s milk is considered extremely nutritious, there are many other animals whose milk is equally nutritious, if not more. Their milk is packed with different combinations of minerals and proteins and can offer many health benefits, and many cultures have been consuming the milk from these animals for years now. Let us take a look at different alternatives to conventional cow milk you can try.

Buffaloes, also belonging to the Bovidae family, the same as cows, provide milk that has high nutritional value. Around 80% of all buffalo milk worldwide is produced in India and Pakistan. The milk has high protein and fat, thus it is best used for producing cheese, yogurt, and cream. Consuming such milk makes you feel full and reduces further intake of food throughout the day, thus it can help in your weight-reducing journey.

Goat’s milk is a great source of fat, calories, calcium, potassium, and protein. Goat milk is easier to digest and is considered good for heart health. The milk is thicker and creamier than cow’s milk. The milk is also rich in Vitamin A, which reduces the risk of cataracts, measles in children, and certain kinds of cancer, according to reports.

The milk of sheep is rich in microminerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium. Their content is at much higher levels than in the milk of cows, buffaloes, or goats. Sheep’s milk has 36% more calcium than cow’s and 31% more than goat's. The milk of sheep is usually used for cheese production as it contains almost double the amount of solids, in comparison to cow or goat milk.

Camel milk is good for our immune system, as it contains high levels of lactoferrin and vitamin C. Also, according to a study, their milk, in comparison to cow’s, is richer in protein, vitamins, and fats. Additionally, their milk is found to be more tolerable for people with lactose intolerance.

Donkey milk has a similar composition to human milk. According to research, pediatricians have recommended donkey’s milk for infants who have allergies to cow’s milk. It has a low-fat content and contains compounds that are antibacterial, protect against inflammation, and have anti-aging properties.