Beginners don’t always know exactly when a goat can drink milk after a successful lambing. An animal can be bred several times during the year, so the issue of milk consumption by people after the birth of offspring remains open for many. Experienced livestock breeders recommend following simple rules so that there is always a sufficient amount of nutritious product.
Can I drink goat colostrum?
Within 3-5 days from the moment of lambing, the goat begins to produce colostrum.There is no direct prohibition on the use of this nutritional substance, but if you try it, the taste will be a little bitter. Colostrum has a thinner consistency than regular milk. The recommendations of experienced livestock breeders boil down to the fact that it is better to make a casserole or omelet with it than to drink it in its pure form.
On what day you can drink milk after lambing a goat directly depends on the beginning of the lactation process. In 90% of cases, milk can be used for food on the 6th day. In case of low milk supply, you should wait, as newborns primarily need nutrients.
In order to successfully accustom a goat to milking, it is recommended to periodically massage her udder before mating with a male. After lambing, milk the animal in a timely manner, adhering to certain rules. This approach will increase the amount of milk in the animal.
Benefits and nutritional value
After it is possible to determine how much colostrum a goat produces, it is important to find out the benefits and nutritional value of the substance. The indicators for the main components are as follows:
- Fat content – 7-8%.
- Protein – 16-18%.
- Calcium – 0.3-0.4%.
- Phosphorus – 0.017-0.02%.
Gradually, the nutritional value of colostrum decreases. The process begins on the second day after lambing. Protein decreases to 3-5%. The content of fat and other components reaches the same level as regular milk within 1-2 weeks. Additionally, colostrum contains:
- Amino acids.
- Growth hormones.
- Leukocytes.
- Immunoglobulins.
It also contains probiotics that stimulate intestinal microflora to grow and normalize digestive processes.The functioning of the gastrointestinal tract returns to normal, various disorders are eliminated. The benefit for humans also lies in the fact that after regular consumption of goat's milk (colostrum), a significant strengthening of the immune system is observed, since the components in the composition have a pronounced antiviral effect. The fight against bacteria is carried out with the help of lysozymes.
Consumption of colostrum helps protect the body from various diseases.
The growth of pathogenic microorganisms in the intestines is suppressed, which is very useful after poisoning. The development and strengthening of one’s own immune system is stimulated, which is why goat’s milk is considered one of the best for baby food.
It is included in the diet to combat lactose intolerance and allergic reactions. Colostrum can provide all the nutrients for intensive growth and proper development. It is recommended to include a healthy drink in your diet during increased physical and mental stress, as it contains a vitamin and mineral complex.
Use of colostrum
It is used in cooking to prepare various casseroles and serums. To avoid a specific taste, it is recommended to use colostrum as a base for milkshakes. The simplest composition is milk whipped with banana. The drink turns out to be tasty and nutritious, and can fully replace breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Goat milk biscuit is a popular dish among those who keep animals on the farm.
Anti-aging (antioxidant) properties make it possible to include goat's milk in nourishing masks for the care of the skin of the face and hands. Colostrum can also be added to creams or shampoos to strengthen hair, giving it strength and a healthy shine.
How many days does a goat have colostrum after giving birth?
Colostrum flows for about 3-5 days from the moment of lambing (average). A gradual decrease in fat content is observed within 14 days. Depending on the breed of goats, the nature of their diet and content, colostrum can be released for up to 1 month. Then, in terms of fat and protein content, the nutritional value approaches that of regular milk. People are not prohibited from eating it, provided that the amount of nutrient liquid is sufficient to feed the young.
