The Benefits of Goat’s Milk Formula
If feeding your baby breast milk isn’t an option, it can be reassuring to know that formula milk contains a wealth of benefits for developing little bodies. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the specific benefits of goat’s milk formula for children.
Goat’s milk formula is filled with nutrient goodness while being gentle on tiny tummies. Some parents also find that little ones with fussy palates or dietary sensitivities enjoy it more than cow’s milk formula.
Let’s look more closely at some of the key benefits of goat’s milk formula.
Goat’s milk formula is nutrient dense
First up, let’s talk nutritional benefits.
Research shows that goat’s milk formula is more compositionally similar to human breast milk than your typical cow’s milk formula. It also contains higher levels of calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin C — nutrients that are essential for human growth and development.
These stats alone are compelling, but goat’s milk also has another great drawcard in the nutritional department.
Goat’s milk formula is rich is oligosaccharides (natural prebiotics)
Goat’s milk is high in prebiotics called oligosaccharides – ‘oligos’ for short. There are up to six times the amount of these natural prebiotics in goat’s milk when compared to cow’s milk. More precisely, researchers have found 14 naturally-occurring oligos in goat’s milk — five of which are also found in human breast milk.
This is significant because oligos in breast milk are known to play important roles in infant development. Research has identified their contribution to:
- Establishment and maintenance of a healthy gut microflora
- Supporting development of the infant immune system through gut microbiome diversity
- Contributing to a gut environment that may reduce susceptibility to certain digestive disruptions.
Oligos are just one of the ways in which goat’s milk formula may help promote a healthier gut and a happy tummy.
Goat’s milk formula is typically easier to digest
Now let’s talk digestive benefits.
Eating and pooping is just about all your baby will do in the early days. As such, their little digestive system can use all the help it can get! Goat’s milk formula certainly has a lot to contribute in this area.
The fats and proteins in goat’s milk are smaller in size, and they form softer curds. This makes it easier for little bodies to break down and digest, and may be why goat’s milk formula sometimes suits little ones with reflux a bit better.
What’s more, goat’s milk naturally contains more A2 beta-casein protein. By contrast, cow’s milk contains a higher level of A1 beta-casein, which some research suggests may be associated with digestive discomfort in some people. The A2 protein found in greater quantity in goat’s milk formula more closely mimics the protein in human breast milk. This may help support digestion for some babies.
Goat’s milk formula can support little ones with allergies and intolerances
We can’t touch on the digestive benefits of goat’s milk formula without also highlighting its suitability for some children with cow’s milk protein sensitivity or intolerance.
These conditions are often what lead parents to try goat’s milk formula in the first place. Many families report success using it as an alternative to cow’s milk formula. But this isn’t always the case, and **goat’s milk formula is not suitable for babies with confirmed cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA)**, as cross-reactivity is possible.
We recommend getting personalised advice from your paediatrician or child health nurse before giving your child with allergies or intolerances goat’s milk formula. Best to be safe!
Goat’s milk formula can taste better to fussy palates
Nutritional and digestive benefits aside, it’s important that your little one actually _enjoys_ their formula, right? Sometimes this simply comes down to taste!
Studies show that little ones enjoy goat’s milk formula as much as they do cow’s milk formula. Some may even prefer the creamier, sweeter taste.
If your baby has been known to reject their formula, it’s worth giving goat’s milk formula a try.
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Given all these benefits, it’s easy to see why goat’s milk formula is growing in popularity in Australia and internationally. Your feeding journey is your own, and we know you’ll make the best decisions for your family. If goat’s milk formula is what you choose, rest assured that it’s packed full of the essential vitamins and minerals needed to support healthy infant growth.
You’re a great parent, and you’re doing a great job feeding your child.
One last thing: goat’s milk formula differs slightly from brand to brand. Here’s how Oli6 Goat Milk Formula stacks up against the rest.
Check out the Oli6 product range, and find us in your local supermarket or pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of goat’s milk formula over cow’s milk formula?
Goat’s milk formula is naturally higher in oligosaccharides (prebiotics), has a protein profile that is closer to human breast milk, and may be easier to digest due to smaller protein and fat molecules. It also contains higher natural levels of certain vitamins and minerals. Individual responses vary, so it’s always worth consulting your paediatrician.
Is goat’s milk formula suitable for babies with cow’s milk allergy?
Goat’s milk formula is **not** suitable for babies with confirmed cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) due to the risk of cross-reactivity. If your baby has CMPA, consult your paediatrician or allergist for appropriate formula recommendations.
Why is goat’s milk formula easier to digest for some babies?
Goat’s milk contains smaller fat and protein molecules that form softer curds in the stomach. It’s also naturally A2, containing very little A1 beta-casein protein. These factors may contribute to easier digestion for some babies, though individual results vary.
Does goat’s milk formula taste different from cow’s milk formula?
Goat’s milk has a slightly creamier, sweeter flavour than cow’s milk. Research shows babies accept goat’s milk formula and cow’s milk formula equally well. Some babies with fussy palates actually prefer goat’s milk formula.
