Biological value of yak milk and its importance in medical and functional nutrition: A systematic review

Objective: Yak milk is a unique product with a high content of proteins, essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.It is traditionally used in the diet of the population of the mountainous regions of Central Asia, especially in Kyrgyzstan, and has significant potential as a functional and dietary product.Due to its composition, yak milk can help strengthen the immune system, improve metabolism and prevent chronic diseases.Despite its value, the chemical composition and biological properties of yak milk remain poorly understood, especially in comparison with other types of milk.The purpose of this review article is to systematize and summarize current scientific data on the chemical composition of yak milk, analyze its potential medicinal and functional properties, and assess the prospects for using this product in medical practice and functional nutrition.Methods: An analytical review of the scientific literature devoted to the study of the chemical composition of yak milk and its therapeutic and functional properties was conducted.Data from Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and other scientific databases were used.Results: During the literature review, 428 articles were analyzed, of which 88 were included in the final review.A review of the available modern information reveals the potential of yak milk as a source of nutrients and functional substances.The article presents the results of scientific studies of the chemical composition of yak milk and analyzes the data provided depending on the habitat of yaks.Yak milk has a high content of protein and essential amino acids, fat and fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.Scientific studies have shown that yak milk and its bioactive components have antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, antihypoxic, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, tonic, and laxative properties.These properties provide prospects for the development of functional products with the addition of yak milk.Conclusion: Yak milk has a unique composition rich in nutrients and bioactive components, which gives it significant medicinal and functional properties.This opens up prospects for its use in medicine, dietary nutrition, and the creation of preventive agents.