Recently, a new type of cow’s milk has appeared in the dairy aisles. This product, called A2 milk, has garnered attention from both consumers and scientists.
Supporters of A2 milk claim that it is easier to digest and absorb than other types of milk. This article provides an overview of A2 milk, its possible health benefits and risks, and current research surrounding the product.
Differences between A1 and A2 milk
Milk is a good source of protein, containing 8 grams (g) per 8-ounce (oz) glass. The two major proteins in milk are casein and whey.
Casein accounts for about 80 percent of the protein in milk. There are also different types of casein, one of which is called beta-casein.
Beta-casein makes up about 30 percent of the protein in cow’s milk. A1 and A2 are two variants of beta-casein.
Historically, cows produced milk that contained only the A2 form of beta-casein. Today, most of the milk available from the local grocery store contains mostly A1 proteins.
A1 and A2 proteins affect the body differently.
When A1 protein is digested in the small intestine, it produces a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). The intestines absorb BCM-7, and it then passes into the blood. Doctors have linked BCM-7 to stomach discomfort and symptoms similar to those experienced by people with lactose intolerance.
The structure of A2 protein is more comparable to human breast milk, as well as milk from goats, sheep, and buffalo.
In 2000, a scientist in New Zealand founded the a2 Milk Company. This company provides milk from cows that only produce the A2 protein.
The a2 Milk Company test the DNA of their cows by using a hair sample, to ensure the animals only produce milk that contains A2 protein. The company test the milk after production, as well, to ensure it does not contain A1 protein.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks cells responsible for producing insulin. Usually diagnosed in children or teenagers, the incidence of type 1 diabetes is increasing around the world. Genetic and environmental factors, such as diet, play a role in the disease process.
Some studies have shown that children who drink cow’s milk protein at an earlier age than others have a higher risk of developing type 1 diabetes. However, other studies have not shown the same association.
The research also suggests that the amount of milk a child consumes could influence their risk of developing type 1 diabetes, with higher milk consumption observed in children who develop the condition.
At least one study showed a link between the consumption of A1 protein and incidence of type 1 diabetes, although this kind of study fails to prove that it is a direct cause.
Some animal studies have shown associations between cow’s milk consumption and a higher incidence of type 1 diabetes. One study in mice found that 47 percent of the mice that had A1 protein added to their diet developed diabetes, while none that had A2 protein added did so.
However, other research does not support the hypothesis that there is any association between milk consumption and a higher incidence of type 1 diabetes.
Heart disease
A study in rabbits looked at the effect of A1 and A2 proteins on cholesterol levels. Rabbits fed the A1 protein developed an increase in their cholesterol levels, but the study was small, and the results cannot be generalized to humans.
Some researchers hypothesized that consuming A1 protein was associated with a higher risk for heart disease, but multiple studies have not found higher rates of heart disease in people who drink more milk.
Cancer
High calcium intake from dairy products is associated with a possible increased risk of ovarian cancer in women, and high calcium intake from any source can raise the risk of prostate cancer in men.
Risks
A2 milk still contains lactose and milk protein, so it is not appropriate for people with lactose intolerance, galactosemia, or a milk allergy.
Furthermore, some people choose not to consume dairy and to follow a vegan diet, the Paleo diet, or to try to reduce acne and other conditions by eliminating dairy.
Milk alternatives
There are many non-dairy milk alternatives available today. Some examples are soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, flax milk, coconut milk, and hemp milk. Each variety differs in its nutritional profile, protein content, and taste.
A note on A2 milk studies
It is important for people considering A2 milk to know that the a2 Milk Company and the dairy industry have funded most of the studies on A2 milk.
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