Research on Goat Milk Formula and Its Anti-Infection Properties

Importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is widely regarded as the optimal nutrition for infants. However, it is not always feasible for every mother. In such cases, infant formula serves as the best alternative to breastfeeding. Most infant formulas are derived from cow’s milk and must meet specific nutrient levels to cater to an infant’s needs.

Challenges with Cow’s Milk Formula

One of the drawbacks of cow’s milk infant formula is that its composition does not adjust as the infant matures. This rigidity can lead to digestive issues, which have been associated with various childhood health problems. Potential health implications include eczema, asthma, food allergies, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and childhood obesity.

Rising Popularity of Goat Milk Formula

Goat milk formula is increasingly gaining popularity, as it is believed to be more analogous to human milk compared to cow’s milk. Goat milk contains a higher concentration of oligosaccharides, which are also present in a variety of human milk. These carbohydrates play a crucial role in fostering healthy gut bacteria and enhancing immunity.

Study on Oligosaccharides in Goat Milk Formula

Research Overview

A laboratory study conducted by Australian researchers at the RMIT School of Science, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, aimed to analyze the types and concentrations of oligosaccharides in goat milk infant formula and evaluate their probiotic and immune-enhancing properties. The study compared two goat milk infant formulas and raw goat milk regarding their oligosaccharide content against human milk.

Impact on Harmful Bacteria

Additionally, the researchers assessed the effectiveness of goat milk infant formula in inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. E. coli is responsible for nearly one-third of childhood diarrhea, and children under five years old have the highest incidence rates of Salmonella infections.

Findings from the Study

Oligosaccharide Composition

The researchers discovered that the two goat milk infant formulas contained fourteen oligosaccharides, five of which are also found in human breast milk. The oligosaccharides present in goat milk formula shared structural similarities with those found in human milk. Notably, raw goat milk also contained these types of oligosaccharides.

Significant Oligosaccharides

The two most prevalent oligosaccharides in human milk were also the most prominent in goat milk infant formula. One specific oligosaccharide, known as fucosylated oligosaccharide or 2’FL, has been recognized for its role in immunity and gut health. The presence of 2’FL in the goat milk formula was shown to encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Expert Insights

In a press release, Professor Harsham Gill, the lead investigator of the study, stated, “Our results show goat milk formula may have strong prebiotic and anti-infection properties that could protect infants against gastrointestinal infections. The study indicates the prebiotic oligosaccharides in goat milk formula are effective at selectively promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. While these laboratory results are promising, further research including clinical trials will help us to confirm these benefits for infants.”

Future Research Directions

The researchers plan to conduct additional studies to validate the findings of this research and collect more evidence regarding the prebiotic and anti-infection properties of oligosaccharides in goat milk infant formula. These findings present encouraging news for infants who are unable to be breastfed and must rely on formula.

Based on this study, goat milk formula emerges as a nutritious alternative that closely resembles human milk, potentially offering health benefits related to gut health, immune development, and infection protection.

References

Leong A, Liu Z, Zisu B et al. Oligosaccharides in goat’s milk-based infant formula and their prebiotic and anti-infection properties. British Journal of Nutrition. 2019:1-26. doi:10.1017/s000711451900134x

Stevens E, Patrick T, Pickler R. A History of Infant Feeding. Journal of Perinatal Education. 2009;18(2):32-39. doi:10.1624/105812409×426314

Questions and Answers | Salmonella | CDC. Cdc.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/general/index.html. Published 2019. Accessed June 30, 2019.