by Paola Fanutti

Created on: January 17, 2009   Last Updated: August 19, 2009

Sure, milk does a body good. But which milk? Not all are created alike and one milk does not suit everyone. There's lots of competition and choice in the milk aisle. Alongside the varieties of pasteurized, UHT, and lactose-free cow's milk, there's also goat's milk and kefir, along with non-dairy soy, rice and even oat milk. Unsure about the most suitable choice? Here's the breakdown of the milk market at your local grocery store.

Cow Milk- The Common Consumer Choice

Cow milk is the most commonly consumed milk in North America and is sold in pasteurized fresh form for immediate consumption or in UHT for longer shelf life. Nutritionally dense, versatile cow milk supplies vitamins A, B complex vitamins, magnesium, protein, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, and of course, calcium. But many people, including young children develop intolerance. Up to 75% of adults worldwide have lactose digestion problems, making cow's milk the most common food allergy. In addition, there is some controversy about whether or not cow's milk is actually healthy or a health hazard.

.Goat Milk- The Universal Cow's Milk Alternative

Not as popular in the Americas as in the rest of the world, many exquisite cheeses, especially French and Italian ones, are derived from it. Goat milk is still a niche market in the U.S, but consumption is increasing. Goat milk contains less lactose than cow milk, making it easier to digest. It also contains a higher fat percentage than cow milk. The nutritional composition of goat milk is similar to cow milk, with more calcium, vitamin D, and the antioxidant selenium. Goats don't produce milk year round, making it pricey.

Kefir Milk- The Centuries Old Beverage

Good feeling" kefir milk is a centuries-old fermented beverage made from a conglomeration of kefir grains, yeast, proteins, sugars and lipids. It is a pro-biotic bacterial culture, and is produced by fermenting any milk type with kefir grains. Its thick consistency gives it a yoghurty texture.

According to Seeds of Heath, kefir milk has antibiotic and antifungal properties. It's been used to treat many medical conditions, like metabolic disorders, atherosclerosis, allergies, tuberculosis, poor digestion, osteoporosis and hypertension. Its taste is somewhat sour, so try mixing it with honey, fruit or maple syrup.

Soy Milk- The Vegan-Friendly Option

Soy milk has gained popularity only relatively recently, but has been produced for hundreds of years. A plant based milk, soy milk's protein

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