We are used to cow milk and we drink it because it is rich in proteins. However, did you know that camel milk has more proteins than cow’s milk? Since time immemorial camel milk has been used by nomads for its medicinal properties and nutritional value. Therefore let’s look at what’s in Camel milk that makes it different from cow milk. One of the biggest benefits of Camel Milk is that it works for people who are lactose intolerant.
- Nutrients
Bashir Warsame, a camel products distributor here in Kenya, who has captured this ancient knowledge in a tightly sealed bottle, attest that Camel milk has naturally occurring vitamin C and D as compared to cow milk. It is preferred by health-conscious consumers since it contains 50% fewer calories and cholesterol (unlike cow milk), making it a great alternative for people with Diabetes. Scientists say that camel milk is the closest alternative to human breast since it contains 10 times more iron and 3 times more Vitamin C than cow’s milk.
- Taste
Sharing my first experience with camel milk which I got from Kulan Cafe here in Nairobi, as a person who likes my milk pasteurized I can say that the taste wasn’t that different from cow’s milk. Although as a first-timer, I could taste a significant difference from the packed cow milk I buy in the morning. The pasteurized camel milk had a richer creamy and slightly salty taste and the first sip left me with a sense of nostalgia. It reminded me of the natural milk you get from a locally bred cow, a few days after it has given birth. The smell wasn’t pronounced either and the texture was refined. This made it feel smooth and balanced such that as you downed a sip it made you feel a sense of familiarity but with an I-cant-put-a-finger-on-it quality.
I also had the pleasure of drinking a camelccino which is simply a cappuccino made of camel milk. Apparently, you cannot tell right off the bat that it is not a cappuccino. Unless someone came down and said, ‘You’re having coffee made with camel milk.’ It does froth well even as a latte.
The milk tones down the espresso as in a cappuccino, but the coffee taste is still featured. My colleagues had tea and their final verdict was that they enjoyed it.
I can get used to this camel tea. ☕️ Plus it has great health benefits- feels like a win-win. 💯 pic.twitter.com/TMgYopGtkP
— The Kenyan Yogi🧘🏽♀️ (@Marion_Mithamo) June 29, 2019
- Health
Camel milk contains less bad cholesterol and lacks the A1 casein protein and lactoglobulin in cow milk, which makes it suitable for someone with lactose intolerance. It is also a natural probiotic unlike cow milk, which does not contain significant numbers of probiotics.
Probiotics are the live microorganisms/helpful bacteria living in our gut that help us fight off the bacteria which cause illness. These trillions of “good” bacteria break down hard-to-digest food, which leads to issues like constipation and lactose intolerance. Since camel milk is a natural probiotic unlike cow milk (where significant probiotics can only be found in its yoghurt form) – since they are added – camel milk becomes a ready alternative.
According to healthline.com, Camel milk has been studied for its effects on behavioural conditions in children, and people suggest that it may aid those with autism. Most of the evidence is anecdotal, though a few small studies indicate potential benefits for improving autistic behaviours.
Camel milk contains less saturated fats than cow milk and is also suitable for people with milk allergies.
- Boosts immune system
Due to readily available probiotics camel milk is good for preventing and treating diarrhoea. A daily intake contains 70% of vitamin B-1 which regulates metabolism and brain function. The high GABA (a non-protein amino acid) found in camel milk, has proven effects on brain functioning which prevents/alleviates mental disorders such as depression, anxiety or memory loss.
It also stimulates the immune system.
- Medicinal value
A recent study carried out by Welsh researchers states that camel milk could be used to reduce inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes who have inflamed abdominal fat located around the waist face an increased risk of complications including heart disease and stroke. Macrophages develop in abdominal fat and play a vital role in progressing inflammation.
Camel milk contains lipids which prevent macrophages. By this fact, camel milk becomes a healthy choice for people ailing with Diabetes. Researchers have also acclaimed camel milk to alleviate symptoms of autism.
“In India camel milk is used therapeutically against dropsy, Jaundice, problems of the spleen, tuberculosis, asthma, anaemia, and piles.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTKB-MYtlyw
- Products
Camel milk can be processed into different products including soft cheese, soap, lotions, and milk powder, and it is also available in a distinct variety of yoghurts. From mango to vanilla and strawberry yoghurt. All I can say is that the taste of these yoghurts is incomparable.
Find your way to Kulan Café located at Kaunda Street, CBD Nairobi if you’d like to get a taste of different foods camel. Be it milk, meat, yoghurt or beverages, you will not regret it.
The Camel Strawberry, Vanilla and Mango @NuugKenya yoghurts are really good. They retail at 319. I love them. The Mango is my favourite #CamelMilk @Wamathai @Marion_Mithamo pic.twitter.com/sKjoywoJDx
— Rayhab (@potentash) June 29, 2019
You can also buy Nuug Camel Products in different places. The different products can be found across stores in Nairobi including; Carrefour, Chandarana Food Plus, Healthy U and Shoprite Westgate Mall. You can also make a purchase online through their official website.
For more information visit Nature Finest milk to learn more about Camels and their products. You can also follow Nuug on Twitter.
Find out more benefits of going the milky way.
Feature image via Broadsheet
