The role of sheep’s milk bioactive substances in the prevention of metabolic and viral diseases

Content of orotic acid and selected bioactive compounds in ovine milk during lamb rearing

“…Natural CLA isomers present in milk are characterised by versatile effects. They stimulate the immune system by increasing the production of immune bodies, mainly lymphocytes, and enhancing phagocytic capacity (Flis et al, 2022). They also help prevent diabetes by increasing tissue sensitivity to insulin (Kowalska and Cichosz, 2013) and combat obesity by reducing the level of free FAs in the blood and inhibiting fat tissue deposition (Daniel and Florin, 2016).…”

“…It also has a favourable fatty acid profile: high content of omega-3 (n-3), omega-6 (n-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), short chain saturated fatty acids (SCSFAs), and branched chain fatty acids (BCFAs) (Sinanoglou et al, 2015). Moreover, ovine milk is characterised by a higher content of water-and fat-soluble vitamins (especially A and D), and minerals compared to cow's milk (Mohapatra et al, 2019;Flis et al, 2022). Sheep's milk fully covers human requirement for essential amino acids, has lower allergenic potential, and may be a suitable substitute for individuals allergic to cow's milk (Michlová et al, 2015;Kawęcka and Sikora, 2022).…”

“…Their role in preventing neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease should also not be overlooked. CLA, n-3, and n-6 PUFAs inhibit the development of atherosclerosis by reducing the synthesis of cholesterol (Ch) and triglycerides, as well as by lowering blood glucose levels (Govari et al, 2020;Flis et al, 2022). Isomers of CLA may also act as antioxidants (Molik et al, 2020), similarly to vitamin E. Vitamin E is a group of several separate compounds with similar structure known as tocopherols (Ts) and tocotrienols (T3s).…”