A2 milk: Does it do a body … better?

One of the major discussions in this space centers largely on what type of dairy is best for you –- so enters A2, which has made waves in recent years. This is because some studies show that milk with the A2 protein (rather than the A1 protein) is giving lovers of dairy a more digestively comfortable experience.

A1 vs. A2 Milk — Does It Matter?

Regular milk contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein, but A2 milk contains only A2 beta-casein. Some studies suggest that A1 beta-casein may be harmful and that A2 beta-casein is a safer choice. Thus, there is some public and scientific debate over these two types of milk.

A2 Milk – The milk of the future?

The structure of A2 protein is more comparable to human breast milk, as well as milk from goats, sheep, and buffalo. Additionally, many people swear by the better tolerance of A2 milk. Even lactose-intolerant people report from time to time that A2 milk is easier to digest. This has not yet been fully proven scientifically.

Ask the Expert: A1 vs A2 Milk Proteins

There have been several claims that the A1 protein in milk may have health consequences including inflammation, cancer, and gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort in some individuals. A2 milk, which comes from cows that produce milk lacking A1 protein, has been touted to avoid these concerns and be more easily digested. Much of the A1 research still is in its infancy but doesn’t indicate serious health risks.

Everything you should know about A1 and A2 milk

Milk A1 is by far the most available and most consumed milk today. Milk A1 is obtained from cows of Western origin and produces large amounts of milk. Milk A2, on the other hand, comes from cows of Indian origin that may produce relatively less milk. The difference in the beta-casein structure in milk is because of the difference in genetic code in the 6th chromosome of the cow.

Five Things Everyone Should Know about … A2 Milk

Suppliers of A2 milk products mention that people who experience discomfort when drinking conventional cow’s milk may be able to drink A2 milk “without the downsides.” However, the existing scientific evidence is inconclusive. Meanwhile, researchers continue to investigate the effects of A2 milk.

Milk proteins and human health: A1/A2 milk hypothesis

Populations, which consume milk containing high levels of β-casein A2 variant, have a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and type-1 diabetes. The A1/A2 hypothesis is both intriguing and potentially very important for public health if it is proved correct.

Science or Snake Oil: is A2 milk better for you than regular cow’s milk?

For those who do not experience any problems with milk consumption, there is no evidence to suggest any benefit in having A2 milk over the common consumed commercial milk, which contains both the A1 and A2 proteins. For less than half the price per litre, the latter would be the favoured option. For those who self-report an intolerance to milk or are lactose-intolerant, A2 milk may be a suitable selection to prevent commonly reported stomach upset complaints, but so too is lactose-free milk.

Should You Be Drinking A2 Milk?

I learned only quite recently about A2 milk, from two dietitians well steeped in the topic who visited my office (my thanks to them both for making the trip). I found the matter fascinating, and highly germane to all of my concerns about dairy. I share it here accordingly.

What Exactly Is A2 Milk? Everything You Need to Know About A2 Cow’s Milk

While A2 milk and lactose-free milk producers market themselves as a safe alternative for those who do not want to give up their favorite dairy products, these beverages are still cow’s milk. Aside from allergies and intolerances, all forms of cow’s milk contain trans fats, saturated fats, a multitude of growth and sex hormones, cholesterol, and sugar, all of which were specifically formulated to help a calf grow into a 2,000 lbs animal.

What is A2 Milk? The Science of A1 vs. A2 Milk

Regular milk from cows contains both A1 and A2 casein proteins. But A2 milk only contains A2 protein. This matters because when digested, A1 proteins break down into beta-casomorphin 7, a molecule that has been preliminarily linked to cardiovascular and autoimmune disease.

What is ‘A2’ milk, and is it better for you than ‘regular’ milk?

Most milk available in the United States comes from Holstein Friesian cows — the world’s most popular dairy cattle breed — and contains a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein. The less-common Guernsey and Jersey cows, as well as African and Asian cattle breeds, produce mostly A2 beta-casein.