Considering Goat Milk?

They’re here!  Two bouncing bundles of happiness were born a little over a week ago to Holly, Mama Goat.  And just like that, I breathe a sigh of relief and life gets busy.  Milking season has begun.

Goat milk...is it the right choice for you and your family?  In depth scientific information is not the purpose of my blog.  Other websites can provide those facts and figures.  I will say that one of the most helpful resources I have found is http://www.everything-goat-milk.com.  Among the many great recipes and ideas,  you will find two well-written articles on health and nutrition which will provide a wealth of information on the benefits of goat milk.

What I will do for you is share my personal experience.  As a child, ear infections, upper respiratory infections, and congestion were constant companions.  I had allergies and while I wasn’t really overweight, I always felt a bit chubby.  Some issues I grew out of, while others remained with me into adulthood.

Quite a few years ago, health professionals including my sister, began to draw the connection between dairy products and chronic illnesses such as allergies and inflammation.  Cindy’s whole family had trouble with dairy and they eliminated most of it from their diet.

Then I had a daughter who was born with an obvious lactose intolerance.  Being a nursing mom, rather than giving up breastfeeding, I chose to avoid all dairy.  Guess what?  Not only was she immediately more comfortable, but to my surprise I noticed that my own chronic congestion had significantly decreased.  I felt better than I could remember.  Except for cheese and occasionally ice cream, cow milk became history.

In the years to follow, I began reading about the human body’s ability to tolerate goat milk more readily than cow milk so by the time I began milking my own does, I was ready for the big test.  Would my health issues return?

The results?  No congestion.  No sinus issues.  Unexpectedly, I also found that on raw, full-fat goat milk my digestive system improved.  I lost weight, and my skin became healthier.

Now, I begin many days with home made goat milk yogurt (heavenly) and enjoy cold, sweet goat milk with my meals.  I use it in my coffee and culture it into a variety of cheeses.  And when I have to endure dry season before the new babies arrive, I can actually tell the difference in my body:  less energy, and I just don’t feel as good.

Once again, this was my personal experience.  Yours may be vastly different, so before you make the switch be sure to do your own research, especially if you have true milk allergies or will be giving it to young children. 

A personal tip?  when you do make the switch, take it slowly as your body learns how to metabolize the smaller fat molecules and new helpful enzymes.

Here are some other things to consider:

*Are you willing to drink raw milk or do you prefer it to be pasteurized?  Once again, research carefully.   There are pros and cons to both.

*If your choice is raw, make sure you understand your state’s laws regarding raw milk.  To obtain that information, take a look at Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund http://farmtoconsumer.org.   On their website you will find a helpful, interactive national map, called “Raw Milk Nation” that shows and explains each state’s regulations.  The map is often updated as states continually review and revise their laws.  Contact FCLD’s friendly, responsive staff for answers to any questions you have.

*The quality (and safety) of milk, especially raw, is based on these factors:  the environment and health of the goats; the diet of the goats; and the handling of their milk.  Before signing any agreement, visit the farm and ask questions.  Are the goats clean and housed in a healthy environment?  Are they given any hormones or medications that would affect the milk?  Are the goats regularly tested for mastitis and any other diseases?  What are they fed?  What about the milking station–is it clean?  What happens after milking?  How is the milk handled?  Are you responsible for cleaning and sterilizing your own jars?  If not, how are they cleaned?

*Ask to taste a sample of the milk.  Does it have an “off” odor?  Is the flavor too “goaty?”  Fresh, milk if handled correctly, will be very white and will taste sweet.  When kept cold, it should last at least a week before souring.

*Be prepared to abide by the rules.  Please do not ask the farmer to compromise on state regulations.  In Michigan, I cannot bring the milk to you and you cannot ever resell it.  Most farmers, including myself, work hard to gain respect from the state and from their community.  To be allowed to do what we love, our standards and practices must be above reproach.  Be a part of the solution, not the problem.

Goat milk...are you ready to try it?  I still have one or two herd shares available for 2019.  If you aren’t quite sure, ask me for a sample and by all means come and visit the babies.  They are pure happiness that we love to share!

Warmly,