What are the benefits of buffalo milk for immune system health?

Does buffalo milk boost the immune system?

Not that we could confirm. Many sites say buffalo milk strengthens immunity because of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, but we found no official health body stating that. No single food boosts the immune system. Nutrients support normal body functions as part of an overall diet, and that is as far as the evidence we read goes.

What nutrients does buffalo milk provide?

A published comparison of buffalo milk with three groups of cattle in Bangladesh found buffalo milk had higher fat (about 58 g per kg) and calcium (about 1.5 g per kg) than the cattle milks, and protein of about 35 g per kg, within the cattle range. Numbers differ by animal and feed.

Is it a good choice for you?

• It is a high-fat milk, so check how it fits your saturated fat intake. The NHS notes that much of the fat in milk is saturated and advises lower-fat milks for older children and adults.
• It contains lactose, so it can cause symptoms if you are lactose intolerant.
• People with a cow milk allergy should ask a doctor before trying other animal milks.

How do you use buffalo milk?

The study found it well suited to curd-based products such as cheese and sweets.

How do you keep it safe?

• Choose pasteurized milk; the FDA says raw milk can carry Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria and Campylobacter.
• Keep it in the fridge and use it by the date on the pack.
• Pregnant women, children, older adults and people with weak immune systems should avoid raw milk entirely, says the FDA.

What really supports immunity?

Eating a varied diet, staying up to date with vaccines, sleeping well, not smoking and washing your hands. Ask a GP before taking supplements or if you get frequent infections. This is general information, not medical advice.