Impact of Long-Term Camel Milk Consumption on Hepatic and Renal Biomarkers of Camel Nomads—An Observational Cross-Sectional Study from Southern Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Camel milk is gaining popularity worldwide owing to its unique biochemical composition and therapeutic benefits. In persona to available data on camel milk's potential health attributes against noncommunicable diseases, this study examined camel milk's effect on hepatic and renal biomarkers of milk consumers. Materials and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 51 camel nomads in the periurban areas of South Punjab, Pakistan. Structured questionnaire based on sociodemographic, dietary assessment, and blood sampling was done following simple random sampling technique to evaluate hematological, hepatic, and renal biomarkers. Results The results indicate hematological parameters including mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to vary significantly between camel and cow milk consumers. Comparatively higher mean values of MCH, MCHC, and MCV, that is, 29.55 pg, 32.76 g/dL, and 89.61 fL, respectively, in male camel milk consumers than in females of the same group were observed. Camel milk consumption for the extended duration was found to anticipate significantly (p < 0.05) higher total serum protein contents, 17.38 g/dL in males and 15.23 g/dL in females than observed in cow milk consumers. Conclusion The study validates that camel milk chronic consumption impacts some hematological changes to a significant level while indicating nonsignificant changes in renal and hepatic markers. Our study entertained sample population from one camel rearing region of the country. To better understand preventive and therapeutic properties of camel milk consumption against hepatic or renal disorders, sample populations from different regions may be enrolled and monitored for camel milk consumption, dietary patterns, and disease prevalence.