What is a2 Milk?
A2 Milk is a brand of milk that has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years due to its unique qualities. Unlike regular milk, which is made up of both A1 and A2 proteins, A2 milk only contains the A2 protein.
The A1 protein, which is found in regular milk, has been linked to a number of health issues, such as digestive problems and inflammation. A2 milk, on the other hand, is said to be easier to digest and less likely to cause these issues.
A2 milk comes from cows that have been selectively bred to only produce the A2 protein. The milk is sourced from farms that follow strict protocols to ensure the health and welfare of the cows.
One of the main benefits of A2 milk is that it is easier on the digestive system. Many people who are lactose intolerant or have difficulty drinking regular milk find that they can tolerate A2 milk more easily.
In addition, A2 milk is said to be higher in certain nutrients, such as calcium and protein, and lower in fat than regular milk. This makes it a popular choice for people who are looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Overall, A2 milk is a great alternative to regular milk for people who are looking for a healthier option. With its unique qualities and thoughtful production process, it's no wonder that A2 milk is becoming increasingly popular around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about a2 milk
A2 milk does not cause such serious health problems; besides, it has nearly the same nutritional composition as regular milk (29–32). Regarding bovine milk composition, it includes approximately 87% water and 13% such milk solids as lactose, fat, proteins, and minerals.
A2 milk comes mainly from Charolais, Guernsey, Jersey, and Limousin cow breeds. These cows originate from the Channel Islands and Southern France. Their milk contains higher amounts of the A2 beta-casein protein. This A2 protein has been part of cow milk for thousands of years.
A2 milk is characterized by being free of the A1 variant of β-casein: a protein that represents approximately 30% of the caseins in cow's milk [8].
The most significant difference between organic milk and organic A2/A2 milk is the presence of A1 beta casein in organic milk. A2 beta-casein is the main protein found in human milk. Organic A2/A2 milk tastes just like the milk you're already familiar with but is more naturally absorbed and easily digested.
While A2 milk does not contain the A1 protein (thanks to selective breeding), it does contain lactose sugars. Those with lactose intolerance (a whopping 65% of the world population) cannot properly digest these sugars, resulting in equally uncomfortable symptoms.
However, the amount of lactose in A1 and A2 milk is the same. But some people experience less bloating after consuming A2 milk than A1. Therefore, currently, A2 milk is considered a healthier choice than regular A1 milk. In terms of availability, A1 milk is more easily available than A2.
Regular milk contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein, while A2 milk only contains A2 beta-casein. When it comes to nutrients, both regular and A2 milks provide almost equal amounts of nutrients, meaning that one does not appear to have a nutritional advantage over the other.
By consuming more omega-3 fatty acids like the ones in A2 milk, you can potentially lower your cholesterol levels. The potassium present in A2 milk benefits your blood pressure, as well. It could help your mood. Vitamin D plays a key role in mood disorders like seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
However, proline (an amino acid) in A2 milk restricts BCM-7 from entering your body. A2 milk is easier to digest than regular milk and, thus, is safe for the human body.
The 7 Healthiest Milk Options
- Hemp milk. Hemp milk is made from ground, soaked hemp seeds, which do not contain the psychoactive component of the Cannabis sativa plant.
- Oat milk.
- Almond milk.
- Coconut milk.
- Cow's milk.
- A2 milk.
- Soy milk.
Protein in Cow's Milk
A1 protein seems to trigger gut symptoms and inflammation, whereas A2 protein does not. You can now find A2 milk in the grocery store, compared to regular cow's milk which contains a mix of A1 and A2 B-casein milk proteins.
All cows produce at least some A2 β-casein, but certain breeds have predominantly A2 in their milk. This includes the Guernsey, Jersey, Charolais, and Limousin breeds. Other animals, such as sheep, goats, buffalo, camels, donkeys, and yaks, also produce milk that mostly contains A2 β-casein.
At a2 Milk®, our milk goes through a process called UHT or ultra-pasteurization. We heat the milk to 280 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 seconds and rapidly cool it to 39 degrees. The result is creamy, delicious milk that lasts longer in your fridge. Thanks to UHT, a2 Milk® stays fresh for 30 to 90 days.
No, it is not genetically modified.
Cows producing a2 milk undergo selective breeding. This means that cows that produce the a2 milk protein are bred together to create more cows that make the a2 protein.
Flax milk is a great nondairy option if you're looking for an anti-inflammatory boost, says Staci Small, a registered dietitian based in Indiana. The milk is made with flax oil, which is rich in an omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Choose lower fat milk such as skim, 1% and 2% milk. Making lifestyle changes (smoking cessation and weight loss), and reducing total dietary fat (especially saturated and trans fat) are more effective at lowering blood cholesterol than reducing cholesterol intake.
