Buffalo milk is the second most popular type of milk consumed worldwide. Buffalo milk has a high nutritional content, just like cow’s milk, and is used to make dairy products like butter, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream.
Although there are a lot of buffalo species, the water buffalo is the one that produces the most milk globally. There are two varieties of water buffalo: swamp and river types. The swamp buffalo is mostly employed as a draught animal, whereas the river buffalo produces the majority of the milk. Because buffalo milk has a lot of protein and fat, it has a thick, creamy texture that is ideal for making butter, cream, and yogurt. (Source) Yes, there are many health benefits of buffalo milk. Let’s check them out
Buffalo Milk May Support Bone Health
Calcium, a mineral essential for bone formation, is abundant in buffalo milk. It is also a source of casein-derived peptides, which have been shown to support bone health and lower the risk of osteoporosis, a condition marked by bone thinning and an elevated risk of fractures. Approximately 89% of the total protein in buffalo milk is made up of the main protein casein.
Several casein-derived peptides have been shown in rat studies to increase bone density and strength, enhance bone formation, and decrease bone resorption—the process by which minerals are released from the bones into the blood. (Source)
Health Benefits of Buffalo Milk: May Provide Antioxidant Activity
Due to its vitamins, minerals, and bioactive components, buffalo milk possesses antioxidant effects similar to other dairy products. Free radicals are a class of chemicals having damaging effects on your body and a link to several diseases. Antioxidants are molecules that combat free radicals.
According to a test-tube study, buffalo milk has an overall antioxidant capacity of 56–58%, compared to 40–42% for cow’s milk. Buffalo milk’s increased monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content is thought to be responsible for its higher antioxidant capacity. (Source)
Buffalo Milk Health Benefits: May Improve Heart Health
Buffalo milk’s beta-lactoglobulin and potassium content may help lower high blood pressure. The main whey protein and a significant source of bioactive substances with positive health effects are beta-lactoglobulin. (Source)
The angiotensin-converting enzyme, which raises blood pressure by tightening blood vessels, is inhibited by beta-lactoglobulin, which is contained in buffalo milk, according to a test-tube study.
Nutrition And Nutritional Value Of Buffalo Milk
According to the National Nutrient Database of the United States Department of Agriculture, 100g of Buffalo Milk has the following nutrients (USDA). (Source)
- Water 83.4 g
- Energy 97 kcal
- Energy 404 kJ
- Protein 3.75 g
- Total lipid (fat) 6.89 g
- Ash 0.79 g
- Carbohydrates, by a difference of 5.18 g
- Fiber, total dietary 0 g
- Calcium, Ca 169 mg
- Iron, Fe 0.12 mg
- Magnesium, Mg 31 mg
- Phosphorus, P 117 mg
- Potassium, K 178 mg
- Sodium, Na 52 mg
Also Read: Did you Know Milk is Toxic to Cats? Know the Top 10 Toxic Foods for Cats
Side Effects Of Buffalo Milk
It has a high-fat content. Over-consumption can cause sudden weight gain. Aged people should avoid consuming buffalo milk as it has more absorbable calcium, in comparison to other milk types. Over-consumption may cause diabetes.
Also, explore articles about health and nutrition at Healthy Foods on Health Views Online, a health blog on everything related to everyday healthcare.
