According to recent studies, milk has been a cause of an array of harmful effects. It has been linked to cardiac conditions, poor digestive health, and even autism. With such frightening evidence stacked against milk, it is difficult to put faith in it as an essential source of nutrition.
What is making milk harmful?
Studies show that majority of milk has A1 beta casein - a type of protein - which upon digestion releases BCM-7, a compound that is not easily absorbed by the body. As a result, milk becomes hard to digest and poses several health risks.
A healthier alternative
However, there is a ray of hope! A2 milk is a special variety of milk which, in contrast to A1 milk, is easily digestible and has disease-resistant minerals. Produced by Indian indigenous cows, it is widely different from the milk of western and crossbred cows which have a higher percentage of the A1 protein.
Moreover, Indian cow milk contains vitamin K, A2, B, D, E, seven types of minerals, 21 types of Amino Acid, 24 types of enzymes and 22 types of salts.
A bovine trivia
Scientists say, at least 5,000 years ago, all cows of the world had the A2 type of beta-casein protein. But due to natural factors and human intervention, the beta-casein protein in some cows mutated to the A1 variety.
A2 milk benefits
Long before A2 milk was found to be a healthier alternative by modern science, Ayurveda knew its numerous benefits. Following are the A2 benefits transcribed by Ayurveda:
- Improvement in ojas - a factor responsible for the immunity of the body
- Enhances intelligence and strength
- Relieves fatigue and severe debility
- Increases breast milk in a feeding mother
- Augments life expectancy
- Helps to alleviate bleeding disorders
A2 milk - a boon for dairy-allergic people
It has been found that because of its easily digestible property, A2 milk is beneficial for people who feel bloated after drinking regular A1 milk. However, lactose intolerant people are not recommended to drink A2 milk as both varieties of milk contain the same amount of lactose.
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Why Indian cows give A2 milk?
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says, “Indian cows have always been treated as a part of the family. Our long-seated tradition of venerating them has led them to assume motherly qualities which have enabled them to continue giving milk which has A2 protein, a characteristic common to mother’s milk.”
Why is the bovine divine in India?
While the special healing qualities of Indian cow milk is one of the reasons, it is also said that Indian cows attract 33 crore energies of the universe, also called devatas in Hindi. The belief that the Indian cow is divine has inspired many holy acts revolving around them. For instance, people who do not know their kul devta (family deity) are directed to consider the cow as one! It is also considered meritorious to feed cows and serve them.
Here is an account of a modern cow herders serving in the ashram’s gaushala.
