Camel milk: The superfood you should be drinking
Camel milk is gaining recognition as one of the most nutritious dairy options available today.
Often referred to as "white gold," this milk has been a dietary staple in many arid and semi-arid regions for centuries.
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In Kenya, it is mainly consumed by pastoralist communities such as the Somali, Borana, Rendille, and some Maasai communities.
With its rich nutritional profile and impressive health benefits, camel milk is not just a cultural beverage but also a superfood that could transform modern nutrition.
The origin and use of camel milk in Kenya
Camel milk has been consumed for thousands of years, particularly in the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
The nomadic and semi-nomadic communities, particularly in regions like Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, and Marsabit rely on camels not just for transport but also for their highly nutritious milk, which is often preferred over cow milk due to its ability to withstand harsh conditions and long storage life without refrigeration.
These groups rely on camel milk as a staple food, and many elders attribute their long lifespan and disease resistance to the regular consumption of this nutrient-dense beverage.
These communities are also known for their strong immunity, lean body mass, and high endurance levels.
Even in urban areas, health-conscious individuals, athletes, and people with lactose intolerance are increasingly turning to camel milk as a nutritious alternative to cow's milk.
According to the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya produces approximately one million litres of camel milk daily, most of which is consumed locally or sold in urban markets like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Nakuru.
How much does camel milk cost?
Camel milk is more expensive than cow's milk due to its scarcity and high nutritional value.
Prices vary depending on the region and seller:
· Raw camel milk costs between Sh200 to Sh300 per litre in most markets.
· Pasteurized and packaged camel milk is sold in supermarkets at around Sh450 to Sh600 per litre.
· Fermented camel milk (Suusa), a traditional Somali delicacy, is priced at around Sh250 per litre.
Nutritional composition: Why is camel milk special?
Camel milk is often described as the closest alternative to human breast milk due to its unique composition. It is the lightest animal milk.
However, it is rich in essential nutrients, including:
· High-quality protein – Camel milk contains casein and whey proteins, which help in muscle growth and immune function.
· Lower lactose content – Camel milk is very light and easy to digest for individuals with lactose intolerance.
· Vitamins and minerals – Camel milk is rich in vitamin C, iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which support immune health and bone strength.
· Healthy fats – Camel milk contains unsaturated fatty acids, which promote heart health.
· Immunoglobulins and lactoferrin – These healthy bacteria help the body fight infections and improve gut health.
According to a study published in the Journal of Dairy Science (2020), camel milk has higher levels of antioxidants, antimicrobial peptides, and anti-inflammatory compounds compared to cow's milk, making it a superior choice for overall wellness.
Health benefits of camel milk
1. Supports digestive health
Camel milk contains prebiotic oligosaccharides, which help nourish gut-friendly bacteria.
Studies have shown that consuming camel milk can improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and promote better digestion.
2. A natural diabetes remedy
A 2017 study in the International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism found that camel milk can lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
It contains insulin-like proteins that help regulate glucose levels naturally.
3. Strengthens the immune system
Camel milk is packed with antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
It contains high levels of lactoferrin and lysozymes, which help the body fight infections.
According to research in the Frontiers in Immunology (2019), camel milk is effective against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
4. May aid autism and neurodevelopmental disorders
Some studies suggest that camel milk could improve symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
A study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine (2018) reported that children who consumed camel milk showed improvements in social behaviour, speech, and cognitive function.
5. Enhances skin and hair health
The high vitamin C and antioxidant content in camel milk promotes collagen production, reducing wrinkles and maintaining youthful skin.
It also contains lactic acid, which helps with exfoliation and skin hydration.
That plus genes, contribute to their healthy skin and good hair health.
6. Promotes heart health
Camel milk is naturally low in cholesterol and high in unsaturated fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy alternative.
Studies show that regular consumption can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve good cholesterol (HDL) levels.
7. May help with autoimmune conditions
Camel milk has been found to reduce inflammation and help people with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn's disease.
Its unique immunoglobulins may regulate the body's immune response, reducing symptoms of chronic inflammation.
How to drink it
Camel milk can be enjoyed in various ways:
· Drink it raw or pasteurized – Best consumed fresh for maximum benefits.
· Make a smoothie – Blend with fruits like bananas or mangoes.
· Use in tea or coffee – A lactose-free option for tea lovers.
· Ferment it – Try traditional fermented camel milk (Suusa).
· Bake with it – Substitute in pancake, cake, or chapati recipes.
· Make camel milk yoghurt or cheese – Available in some speciality stores.
Should you try camel milk? Absolutely!
With its impressive health benefits, camel milk is more than just a traditional beverage, it is a superfood with immense nutritional and medicinal value.
Whether you are looking to boost immunity, manage diabetes, improve digestion, or enhance skin health, camel milk is a natural and wholesome option worth considering.
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