A2 Milk and Nutrition
A2 milk is a type of cow’s milk that contains only the A2 form of the protein beta-casein, which is one of the main proteins found in milk. Regular milk (commonly referred to as A1 milk) contains a mixture of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins.
The key difference between A1 and A2 milk lies in the structure of the beta-casein protein. In A1 milk, the beta-casein protein has a small difference in its amino acid chain that can result in the release of a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7) during digestion. Some people believe that BCM-7 may cause digestive discomfort or other health issues, especially for those who are sensitive to milk.
A2 milk, on the other hand, does not release BCM-7 because it only contains the A2 form of beta-casein. For some individuals, A2 milk may be easier to digest and may cause fewer gastrointestinal issues than regular milk containing both A1 and A2 proteins.
The main selling point of A2 milk is that it’s marketed as being gentler on the stomach for people who experience discomfort from regular milk, but it is not lactose-free. It still contains lactose, so it is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Key Points about A2 Milk:
• Contains only A2 beta-casein protein.
• May be easier to digest for some people compared to regular milk.
• Not lactose-free; it still contains lactose.
Nutritional Facts (Whole A2 Milk):
• Calories: ~150 kcal
• Protein: ~8 grams
• Total Fat: ~8 grams
• Saturated Fat: ~5 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: ~12 grams
• Sugars: ~12 grams (mainly lactose)
• Calcium: ~300 mg (about 30% of daily recommended intake)
• Vitamin D: ~100 IU (fortified milk, about 25% of daily recommended intake)
• Vitamin A: ~500 IU (about 10% of daily recommended intake)
• Potassium: ~300 mg
• Phosphorus: ~220 mg
Other nutrients:
• B vitamins: B2 (Riboflavin), B12, and niacin
• Magnesium: ~25 mg
A2 milk also provides important trace minerals like zinc and selenium, as well as other essential nutrients like iodine.
It’s important to note that the actual nutritional content can vary slightly depending on whether the milk is whole, 2%, 1%, or skim. Additionally, some brands of A2 milk may be fortified with vitamin D or omega-3 fatty acids.
If you’re looking for milk with specific nutritional benefits or if you have any sensitivities, A2 milk may offer an alternative without the digestive discomfort some people experience from A1 milk.
• Produced by certain breeds of cows, such as Gir and Desi cows, , and some others that have been selectively bred to produce only A2 milk.