Dose-dependent effects of camel milk on immune function and metabolic health in weaning rats

Abstract

Breastfeeding cannot fulfill an infant’s nutritional needs beyond six months, necessitating theintroduction of alternative milk sources. Camel milk has emerged as a promising candidate due to itsrich profile of nutrients and immunomodulatory properties. This study evaluated the dose-dependenteffects of camel milk on general health and immune response in post-weaning rats, with particularattention to sex-specific differences. Male and female rats were divided into: control (GI), and fourtreatment groups receiving 2.4 mL (GII), 3.4 mL (GIII), 4.4 mL (GIV), or 5.4 mL (GV) of camel milkdaily for six weeks. Serum biochemical parameters, including lipid profile, liver and kidney functionmarkers, and immunological responses were assessed before and after immunization with sheep redblood cells. While higher doses (4.4–5.4 mL) significantly enhanced immune response and bone health,they concurrently elevated liver and kidney function parameters. The 3.4 mL dose balanced benefits,showing significant immune enhancement and bone health improvement without adverse metaboliceffects. These findings demonstrated that camel milk (3.4 mL for rats/473 mL for infants) safelyenhanced immune function, while higher doses risk metabolic stress. The results supported camelmilk’s potential as a nutritional supplement during weaning but emphasized the importance of dose regulation.