Indian Cow’s Milk vs. Veganism: The Truth No One Talks About!

Rani Singh
Mar 25
4 min read

Indian Cow’s Milk vs. Veganism: Cow’s milk was once an important part of Hindu tradition. But today, many people avoid it. Why is this happening? Let’s find out its effect on health.

The debate between cow’s milk and vegan food is increasing. Many people now choose plant-based milk. But cow’s milk is not just food. It is linked to Hindu culture, Ayurveda, and old Indian books. It has been part of Indian life for many years.

The Sacred Significance of Indian Cow’s Milk in Hinduism

Cow’s milk has many nutrients, and keeps us healthy at every age. It is very good for children and old people. Let’s find out why it is so important!

In Hinduism, cows are holy animals. They stand for wealth, purity, and food. Old books like the Mahabharata and Rig Veda call cow’s milk Amrita, which means the drink of life. Lord Krishna, also known as Govinda, is often shown with cows, showing their deep spiritual value.

The Atharva Veda praises cow’s milk for its healing powers. It strengthens the body and refreshes the mind. It is not just food—it is a source of life and energy.

The sacred cow Kamadhenu is believed to grant wishes. It is a symbol of wealth and food. People respect cows not just for religion but also for their help to humans.

Ayurveda & Cow’s Milk: A Time-Tested Superfood

Ayurveda, India’s 5000-year-old medical system, praises cow’s milk for its balancing effects on the body. According to Charak Samhita, cow’s milk is:

Cow’s milk is easy to digest and very healthy.
It helps to make the body strong and live longer.
It keeps the mind calm and gives good sleep.
It balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha in the body.

Ayurvedic books say cow’s milk is a natural cure for acidity, heart diseases, and stress. Unlike plant-based milk, it has all nutrients naturally and does not need extra vitamins.

Indian Cow’s Milk vs. Veganism: What Science Says

1. Complete Nutrition for All Ages

Indian cow’s milk is a complete food, offering essential proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Key benefits include:

Calcium & Vitamin D: Make bones and teeth strong.
High-quality Protein: Helps muscles grow and heal.
Vitamin B12: Important for the brain. Not found in plant foods.
Healthy Fats & Omega-3s: Good for the heart and brain.

Vegan milk like almond, soy, or oat milk lacks these nutrients. Extra vitamins are added to them. They may also have chemicals and preservatives that can be harmful over time.

2. Digestibility & Lactose Tolerance

Some people say adults should not drink milk because of lactose intolerance. But Indian A2 cow’s milk is easier to digest than A1 milk from Western cows. Boiling milk makes it easier to digest. Adding turmeric or cardamom is also good for health.

3. Sustainability & Environmental Concerns

Some people say dairy farming is bad for nature, but this is not true. India’s traditional dairy farming is good for the environment. Indian cows like Gir, Sahiwal, and Red Sindhi need less water and food than Western cows. Cow dung is used as natural fertilizer and biogas fuel. This helps farming and keeps nature clean.

The Vegan Myth: Can Plant-Based Milk Replace Cow’s Milk?

Veganism supports plant-based milk, but it ignores some important facts.

Almond and oat milk do not have important nutrients. They have less protein than cow’s milk. They need extra added vitamins, which the body may not absorb well.

Soy milk can affect hormones because it has phytoestrogens. It is often made from genetically modified soy and goes through heavy processing.

Vegan milk also harms the environment. Almond milk needs too much water to produce. Oat and soy farming leads to the cutting down of many trees.

The Verdict: Why Indian Cow’s Milk Still Matters

Indian cow’s milk is full of nutrition, good for the environment, and important in culture. Today, many people follow new food trends, but cow’s milk is still special.

Veganism talks about eating without animal products. But in India, dairy farming takes care of cows in a kind way. People respect cows and use their milk without harming them.

In modern dairy farming, calves are typically given around 10% of the milk, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients while allowing the remaining milk to be collected for human consumption. Milk is an important food. It has protein, calcium, and vitamins. These keep us strong and healthy.

Conclusion:

Milk is good for our health and is part of our tradition. If we take care of dairy farming, milk will remain useful. It will be available for everyone.

We must take care of cows even when they stop giving milk. Sadly, some people leave old cows because they are no longer useful, which is wrong. If someone cannot look after an old cow, they should send it to a Gaushala (cow shelter), where it will be safe and cared for.

People should protect this tradition so that future generations can also enjoy the benefits of Indian cow’s milk.