Goat’s Milk: A Healthy Alternative for Everyone

Have you heard about the man who went to see his doctor? He said, “Doctor, Doctor I feel like a goat.” The doctor, surprised, said, “How long have you felt like that?” The man replied, “Since I was a kid.”

Jokes aside, I can imagine the average person on the street squirming at the thought of drinking milk that came from a goat. It’s a little unusual in the United States, yes, but goat milk packs so many benefits that I really must challenge you to try it. Chances are you’ve already tried some goat milk products. Goat milk is used in many fine foreign cheeses, such as Greek feta, the Italian Caprino, and a number of French Chèvres[2]. It also makes a popular moisturizer, thought to keep the skin elastic and smooth.

Goat Milk vs. Cow Milk

A cup of goat milk supplies more protein - almost nine grams of protein compared to about eight grams of protein in cow milk. Interestingly, goat milk has less xanthine oxidase than cow’s milk. When this enzyme enters the bloodstream, it can create scar tissue on the heart, an event that could lead to arteriosclerosis.

The nutrient composition of goat milk is very different than that of cow's milk. In addition to containing 13% more calcium than cow's milk, goat milk also has 25% more vitamin B-6, 47% more vitamin A, 134% more potassium and 350% more niacin, known to be valuable to weight watchers everywhere for its cholesterol reducing effects. Goat milk is also higher in chloride, copper and manganese and contains 27% more of the essential nutrient selenium. Finally, goat milk contains none of the controversial Bovine Growth Hormone (BGH)[1].

Goat’s Milk for the Lactose Intolerant

People who are allergic to cow’s milk may suffer diarrhea, asthma, bloating and irritability, a condition referred to as lactose intolerance. Goat’s milk contains lactose, just like cow’s milk, but its superior digestibility allows consumption without allergic side effects. It’s also more completely and easily absorbed than cow’s milk, leaving less undigested residue behind in the colon. The fermentation of undigested residue is what causes the uncomfortable symptoms of lactose intolerance.

Goat something to say?

Comments, tips, goat milk experiences are always welcome. I want to hear from you, so comment away. No kid-ding!

[1] http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/136851/compare_the_health_benefits_of_goat.html?cat=5

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goat_milk_cheese