Is A2 Milk Better for You?

The debate between the consumption and nutritional value of A1 and A2 milk is still on. Experts are divided over the purported harmful effects of A1 milk and the benefits of A2 milk. So, here’s a piece of information on whether you should switch to A2milk or if it is just a fad to shoot sales up.

What is A2 Milk?

To begin with, it is essential to understand what A2 milk is. All animal-derived varieties of milk have a protein called casein. Cow milk has ten times casein compared to other animal milk types and makes up 80% of the total protein content in milk. Among the 13 different styles, two types of casein are mainly present in milk. These are A1 beta-casein and A2 beta-casein.

What’s the Difference?

Well! Both beta-caseines of bain 209 amino acids are the building blocks of protein. In this chain, the change occurs in the 67th amino acid wherein A1 has histidine and A2 has proline. When histidine amino acid in A1 breaks down, it produces a peptide called BCM-7, adversely affecting human health. For the uninitiated, peptides are biological molecules that play a role in functions related to the DNA, immune system, blood pressure, etc.

What is the controversy?

A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Livestock Research explained, “Several researchers have reported that BCM-7 interacts with the human gastrointestinal tract, internal organs, and brainstem. BCM7 adversely affects the immune response and is also considered a risk factor for type 1 diabetes. A2 milk is considered safe for human consumption. However, several other studies have found no relationship between A1 milk and the etiology of these diseases. Hence, the present picture on A1vs A2 milk in concern to their health impacts is still unclear.”

Should you consume A1 milk anymore?

While the sales of A2 milk in Delhi and other cities have increased. The reasons behind it are unclear, whether it results from actual awareness about the A1 vs. A2 controversy or other health reasons. For example, some people feel that A2 milk causes less bloating. So, whether you should consume A1 or A2 milk depends on on how well your digestive system can absorb either. Regarding the safety of A1 milk, its harmful effects have been highlighted and negated in several studies. As stated in a report published by the Hindu Business Line on April 19, 2018, “There have been reports implicating A1 protein/BCM-7 in negative health effects like Ischaemic heart disease, Type 1 diabetes, autism, inflammatory response, and digestive discomfort, but the scientific community believes the evidence is insufficient and inconclusive.”

So, amidst so many mixed opinions on the adverse effects of A1 milk and the benefits of A2 milk, the ideal decision is to be on the safer side. Buying A2 milk may be a bit costly, but it will keep you assured about your health and that of your loved ones; that means one thing less to worry about.

RemembeRemember to choose only reliable vendors to buy organic milk in Delhi and other cities.