For some reason, Americans are only just starting to get comfortable with goat's milk and its products. Cows rule the dairy landscape here.
Increasingly, however, goat’s milk, cheese and even whey are becoming common. Seeing that, you might wonder: What's the difference? How does goat whey protein compare to the traditional cow whey protein?
The Similarities
First, let's start with what makes them similar products.
Of course, the process that creates them is the same: Milk (from a cow or goat or whatever) is heated or otherwise curdled. The solid curds are then skimmed off the top and – like magic – whey appears.
At this point, however, the whey is liquid and must be powdered before it gets to the tub. This process is the same regardless what animal the milk came from.
And, in large part, goat whey protein is nutritionally similar to that derived from cows – meaning that it packs plenty of complete protein. This makes goat whey just as useful for muscle building and weight loss as that derived from cow's milk.
The Differences
To a large extent, the whey of goats and cows is pretty similar when you get down to the nutrition of it.
Cow's milk does contain a little less fat but it also has more sugar and less protein – but these numbers are so close that they may actually reverse depending on where and how the whey is processed. It's important to realize, too, that goat's milk is higher in vitamin A, calcium, potassium and magnesium – and these numbers are consistent.
Perhaps the biggest – and most important advantage – that goat whey protein has over whey from cow’s milk has to do with digestion. For one thing, goat's milk is lower in lactose and is therefore more easily tolerated by many people.
If you have trouble with lactose but still want whey protein, you can check out a whey protein isolate powder, like our Clear Naked Whey which is 100% lactose-free.
But research has found that goat whey forms smaller clumps in your stomach that the cow-based alternative, making it pass through the digestive tract easier and with less... discomfort.
Interestingly, goat whey protein is also rich in a dietary fiber called oligosaccharides which act as prebiotics – substances that support the growth of health bacteria in your gut. This means that goat whey can actually help to build an environment in which all of your food is more easily digested.
Which One?
So, then, which is better? It's actually a pretty close tie. When it comes to protein, fat and carbohydrates by cow and goat whey protein are excellent sources. But goat’s milk does offer slightly more micronutrients with a reduced chance of allergies and negative digestive effects.
