You may be aware that lactose intolerance can put inconvenient restrictions on your dietary habits, severely limiting your consumption of lactose sources like cow or buffalo milk. However, studies have predicted that lactose intolerance can be detrimental to your neurological health as well.
A study published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences found that neurological symptoms like headache, vertigo, memory impairment, lethargy or cardiac arrhythmia can develop even in less than 20%. In this light, alternative sources of milk, such as camel milk are being hailed for their potential benefits for neurological well-being. To know more about the same, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Pradeep Mahajan, Regenerative Medicine Researcher and Founder, StemRx BioScience Solutions India.
Lactose Intolerance and Neurological Symptoms
Defining lactose intolerance, Dr Mahajan shared, “It is a common digestive disorder in which the body lacks sufficient amounts of lactase, an enzyme needed to digest lactose, which is the sugar found in milk.”
Talking about the neurological symptoms presented by lactose intolerance, he added, “People with lactose intolerance may experience cognitive issues, such as difficulty concentrating and memory problems, possibly linked to inflammation and impaired nutrient absorption.”
One major source of lactose in our diet is cow and buffalo milk which are often linked to migraines and headaches. “Additionally, the inflammatory response triggered by lactose intolerance may contribute to the worsening of symptoms in individuals already grappling with neurological disorders,” suggested Dr Mahajan.
Also Read: How To Drink Milk If You Are Lactose Intolerant? Expert Shares Tips To Manage This Condition
Benefits Of Camel Milk
Camel milk is a lesser-known alternative gaining recognition for its potential health benefits. Not only does it have a lower concentration of lactose, it also boasts a unique nutritional profile. “It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, and its fat composition is different from that of traditional dairy, making it a potential ally in the quest for neurological well-being,” commented Dr Mahajan.
Additionally, according to a study published in the Frontiers of Immunology, camel milk may have antiviral, antibacterial, anti-tumour, anti-fungal, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-ageing, and anti-cancer activities.
“The presence of protective proteins, including lysozymes and immunoglobulins, may contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, camel milk is a source of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, known for their positive impact on brain health,” said Dr Mahajan.
He added, “Studies have explored the potential of camel milk in managing conditions like autism, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease.”
Also Read: From Digestive Health To Lactose Digestion, Here Are Some Health Benefits Of Yoghourt
Dr Mahajan concluded that while more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, the initial findings are promising, and camel milk is emerging as a potential therapeutic option for those seeking alternatives to conventional dairy.