Why all the fuss over the types of milk – is it just one of the food trends? It turns out that not all milk protein is the same. To explain A2 milk drink in NZ, we need to take a careful look at A1 and A2. These are two types of proteins – or forms of beta-casein – in dairy products.
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Science and food sensitivity risks
A1 and A2 are different. Since comparative research, numerous studies have been suggesting one is healthier than the other and less likely to cause allergic reactions or digestive discomfort. But there’s more to the issue than A1 beta-casein being proven more difficult for humans to digest and tolerate. Some researchers consider A1 a risk factor, linking it to atopic dermatitis, allergies and lactose intolerance that may sometimes be triggered by A1 consumption.
Behind all that science, the reason why it is safer for infants and toddlers to consume A2 milk drink in NZ is perfectly natural: A2 is found in human breast milk, while A1 isn’t. This is of particular importance for babies and toddlers if you are looking to avoid or reduce the symptoms of food sensitivity and discomfort:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Skin irritation
No parent wants their little one to have these symptoms. Yet, it’s not about going all in for A2 while assuming it’s 100% perfect for your little one.
Are A2 milk drink in NZ ideal for everyone?
It looks like the quest for milk that’s optimal for growing little ones is over, and it doesn’t seem surprising that the answer is rooted in history and genetics. Goat, sheep, camel and donkey milk contain little or no A1 proteins. Due to the selective breeding of cows aimed at increasing the milk quantity, regular milk contains both A1 and A2 proteins – while many researchers view the A1 gene in cows as an unfavourable mutation.
On the brighter side, producing milk that contains exclusively A2 beta-casein doesn’t require anything special done to the animal or the milk. It is just a matter of the cow having two copies of the A2 gene and being genetically tested to find that out.
That said, A2 milk can’t be considered a miracle product that everyone will love and will be able to digest. It is not lactose-free and not suitable for dairy allergy sufferers or lactose-intolerant individuals. But when it comes to A2 milk drink in NZ, it’s the safest option for sensitive babies that can make their first year of life a smoother journey.
Key takeaways:
- A2 is the most natural type of milk protein that most consumers will tolerate.
- The similarity of A2 to breast milk makes it the best option for toddler A2 milk drink in NZ.
- Some people with self-reported regular milk intolerance can consume dairy products with the A2 type of beta-casein only.
- Some studies link reduced inflammation and improved digestive comfort to replacing other milk varieties with A2 beta-casein.
- If your little one has difficulty digesting lactose or develops allergy symptoms to dairy products, A2 should not be considered a silver bullet.