Health Habits

Goat Milk vs Cow Milk: Which Should You Drink?

Author: Kayla Phaneuf

While most Americans have cow milk in their fridge, goat milk is actually the most consumed type of milk in the world! (WebMD) Goats are more accessible and easier to manage for people in other countries compared to cows. How do they compare in terms of health benefits? Is cow milk better for you or is goat milk actually healthier? 

Nutrition Levels

Goat milk contains more protein, fat, calories, and less cholesterol than cow’s milk. While goat milk could be a better benefit to those with high cholesterol, cow’s milk might be a better option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake. Both types of milk are also heavier in different vitamins; for instance, goat milk has more calcium, while cow’s milk has more B12 (PureWow).

Lactose and Digestibility

Milk alternatives are on the rise and many who have lactose issues are turning to almond, coconut, soy, and oat milk. While they can fill the hole in a diet as a tasty substitute, they do not provide the same nutrients or health benefits as an animal’s milk might. Goat milk could be the solution to those who have some trouble digesting lactose. It contains 12% less lactose per cup than cow’s milk (Healthline).

Which is Better?

In conclusion, neither milk is particularly more healthy than the other, but each provides its own form of nutrition in its own way. Depending on the type of nutrients one is specifically looking for their milk consumption to provide, researching the properties of each milk type could be a great benefit to one’s diet and overall health. Sometimes varying the types of milk used in your meals can be beneficial, and it never hurts to try something new! 

Header photo provided by Kaleb Tapp, Unsplash