Milk is not like milk!

Milk is one of the healthiest foods, it is a source of calcium, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and proteins important for muscle movement, transmission of signals in the nervous system. Milk contains vitamins A, D, B12, B1 and selenium, which slows down the aging process and contributes to the protection of the immune system. Under this healthy drink, we automatically imagine cow's milk, and there are currently other types of milk on the market, such as goat, sheep, soy, almond, rice, oat or coconut, with a significant source of nutrients, minerals and vitamins.

Cow milk

It is perhaps the most widespread and most commonly consumed species, a staple food, with an important source of protein, calcium, zinc, iodine, vitamins A, B2 and B12, as well as probiotic cultures. Milk fat is easily digested and milk sugar contributes to the regulation of intestinal function. However, it is also true that there are quite a few cases of lactose allergy contained in cow's milk, especially in children.

Goat milk

The ancient Romans considered it an elixir of beauty and longevity. Nutritional value is similar to cow's, but has a different composition. It is suitable as a substitute for cow allergy sufferers and, due to its more basic character and higher neutralizing ability, it is also suitable for people suffering from stomach ulcers. Its regular consumption contributes to reducing nervousness, relieving migraines, strengthening immunity, promoting digestion and improving the condition of the skin, because it has a positive effect on cell renewal and protects against the harmful effects of the environment. Goat's milk contains more calcium, a lot of minerals, e.g. magnesium, potassium, sodium, manganese or a number of trace elements such as copper, zinc, titanium, chromium, cobalt, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, C, D, E and folic acid.

Sheep's milk

It has a typical aroma, is sweet and, compared to cow's, contains more fats and proteins, but also calcium, zinc and phosphorus. It is characterized by a high proportion of essential fatty acids, especially n-3 fatty acids, which protect against inflammation and thrombosis.

It also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which promotes fat burning and helps fight cancer and diabetes. Sheep's milk has excellent quality and nutritional parameters, which are much higher than cow's milk. In contrast, it is denser, more nutritious, contains twice the amount of proteins, fats and fat-soluble vitamins, but especially the very important substance lactoferrin (its content is 8-10 times higher than in cow's milk), with antiseptic effects.

Soya milk

Basically, it's not even milk, it just resembles it in color. It is made from soybeans and contains well-digested proteins and lecithin, which is important for brain cell metabolism, promotes memory, speed of thinking and overall mental freshness.

Although it contains only a very small amount of calcium, it is involved in lowering cholesterol and strengthening immunity. It also contains iron, vitamins B1, B3, E, fiber and phytoestrogens. It is suitable for all age groups, but especially for middle-aged and older women as a prevention and support for the treatment of problems related to menopause.

Almond milk

It is one of the strengthening drinks for the sick and elderly, breastfeeding women and to support the nervous system and fight stress. It is very nutritious, easy to digest and heals internal inflammation.

It is also suitable for people on a lactose-free diet or vegetarians, because it does not contain lactose and cholesterol. It is high in minerals, especially calcium and potassium, and is an excellent source of protein, vitamins and trace elements. We can drink it alone, or use it in the preparation of cereals, flavors and with forest fruits or nuts.

Rice milk

It has a high nutritional value, is easily digestible, contains a number of important minerals, vitamins, valuable fiber and more carbohydrates. Unlike cow, however, it does not contain calcium, cholesterol, or allergens such as lactose and milk protein casein. It is suitable for allergy sufferers and people with a gluten-free diet or indigestion.

Oat milk

It is made from oatmeal and is a bit watery because it contains only vegetable fats and no cholesterol or gluten. It has a higher proportion of soluble and insoluble fiber, contains resistant starch with a low glycemic index and is suitable for diet or prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is high in B vitamins, which benefit hematopoiesis and the nervous system. It is also recommended as a prevention against constipation and a supportive means of quitting various addictions (alcohol, smoking). This milk is also used for cooking, baking, flavoring coffee, tea or preparing breakfast with cereals.

Coconut milk

It is a drink for strengthening immunity and for diversifying the menu. It is recommended as a substitute for cow's milk for baking, cooking and drinking. As a natural gluten-free product, it is also suitable for people with allergies or hypersensitivity to cow's milk.

It contains carotene, a variety of B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, manganese, antioxidants, protein and many other nutrients, but no fat. It helps the body maintain the right blood sugar level, thanks to calcium and phosphorus it helps to build strong bones, thanks to iron it helps prevent anemia, relaxes nerves and muscles, helps regulate weight, reduces the risk of arthritis and low blood pressure.

Source: Gabriela Sekerková, Najmama.sk Photo: Dreamstime.com