Colostrum
Colostrum Supplement Profile
1. Introduction
Colostrum is the pre-milk fluid produced by the mammary glands of mammals in the first few days after giving birth, before the production of mature milk. It is a complex biological fluid that is nutritionally and compositionally distinct from mature milk, containing a high concentration of nutrients, immune factors, and growth factors [1]. Bovine colostrum (BC), derived from cows, is the most common form used in human dietary supplements due to its rich content of bioactive molecules that are structurally and functionally similar to those in human colostrum.
Chemical/Botanical Basics
Bovine colostrum is primarily composed of water, but its dry matter is rich in protein (especially immunoglobulins), fat, vitamins, and minerals. The concentration of these beneficial compounds is highest immediately after parturition and decreases rapidly over the first 72 hours of lactation [1].
Mechanism of Action
The primary mechanism of action for colostrum’s health benefits is attributed to its high concentration of bioactive proteins and oligosaccharides.
- Immunomodulation: Immunoglobulins (primarily IgG, IgA, and IgM) provide passive immunity and help neutralize enteric pathogens in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract [1]. Bioactive components like Lactoferrin also support the immune system through their antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects [1].
- Gut Health and Integrity: Colostrum’s growth factors (e.g., epidermal growth factor, IGF-1) and oligosaccharides promote the growth and repair of the intestinal lining, helping to maintain gut barrier function and reduce intestinal permeability, which is particularly beneficial in conditions like NSAID-induced enteropathy and leaky gut [1, 2]. Oligosaccharides also act as prebiotics, modulating the GI microbiome [1].
- Muscle Repair and Performance: Growth factors, such as IGF-1, are thought to contribute to muscle protein synthesis, tissue repair, and increased lean body mass, supporting its use for body composition and exercise performance [1].
2. Chemical Composition/Key Bioactive Roles
Bovine colostrum is a nutrient-dense food containing high levels of macro- and micronutrients compared to mature milk.
| Main Active Compound | Mean Concentration (Colostrum) | Key Bioactive Role |
|---|---|---|
| Immunoglobulin G (IgG) | 55.00 mg/mL [1] | Dominant antibody; provides passive immunity against pathogens in the gut. |
| Lactoferrin | 0.82 mg/mL [1] | Iron-binding glycoprotein; antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. |
| Lactoperoxidase | 11–45 mg/L [1] | Enzyme with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity; inactivates viruses. |
| Oligosaccharides | 0.7–1.2 mg/mL [1] | Prebiotics; modulate the gut microbiome and support anti-infective activity. |
| Protein (Total) | 140–149 mg/mL [1] | Complete protein source, including whey and casein; supports muscle synthesis. |
| Growth Factors | (Trace amounts) [1] | Includes IGF-1, TGF-α, and TGF-β; promotes growth, tissue repair, and intestinal integrity. |
| Vitamins & Minerals | High concentration [1] | Rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and minerals (Ca, P, Mg, Zn). |
3. Health Benefits
| Health Benefit | Scientific Evidence and Citation |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea (Infectious) | Bovine colostrum supplementation is possibly effective for reducing the frequency and duration of diarrhea, particularly in children and those with rotavirus or HIV/AIDS-related diarrhea [2]. A systematic review found BC consistently reduced stool frequency in seven trials [3]. |
| Gastrointestinal Integrity | BC helps diminish exercise-induced intestinal permeability (often referred to as “leaky gut”) [1]. It has also shown potential in managing NSAID-induced enteropathy by acting as a carrier for NSAIDs via lactoferrin, reducing intestinal damage [1]. |
| Upper Respiratory Tract Infections | Taking BC orally might prevent upper airway infections in healthy adults who engage in intense exercise, suggesting an immune-boosting effect under stress [2]. |
| Exercise Performance & Body Composition | Studies show that BC supplementation can lead to significant improvements in lean body mass, weightlifting performance, and explosive muscle power, with some studies suggesting a dose of 60 g/day is beneficial for older adults undergoing resistance training [1]. |
4. Dosage and Usage
The recommended dosage for colostrum varies widely depending on the health goal and the concentration of bioactive components in the supplement.
- General Use/Immune Support: Typical doses used in studies range from 10 to 60 grams per day, often divided into at least two doses, taken for a period of 4 to 12 weeks [2].
- Exercise/Body Composition: A dose of 60 grams per day has been used in trials to increase leg press strength and reduce bone resorption in older adults during resistance training [1].
- Specific GI Issues (e.g., Diarrhea): Doses of hyperimmune BC have varied, including 10 g/day, 20 g three times a day, and 50 g two times a day [3].
Colostrum is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and chewable tablets. It is generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach to maximize the absorption of its bioactive proteins.
5. Safety and Precautions
Bovine colostrum is generally considered LIKELY SAFE for most adults when taken appropriately by mouth [2].
Side Effects
Reported side effects are generally mild and related to the gastrointestinal tract, including [3]:
- Nausea (8.1% incidence in one review)
- Flatulence/Increased Gassiness (10.8% incidence in one review)
- Bloating or stomachache
- Skin rashes or itching (rare)
Contraindications and Warnings
- Allergy to Cow’s Milk: Colostrum is derived from milk. Individuals with a known allergy to cow’s milk or milk products should avoid bovine colostrum as they may also be allergic to its components [2].
- Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: There is insufficient reliable information regarding the safety of bovine colostrum during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It is advised to stay on the safe side and avoid use [2].
- Drug-Disease Interactions: Colostrum should be used with caution in patients with bleeding disorders or hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood) [4].
- Preterm Infants: Bovine colostrum is possibly unsafe for use by preterm infants [2].
- Saturated Fats: Bovine colostrum is naturally high in saturated fats, and excessive consumption could potentially increase cholesterol and the risk of developing heart disease [5].
6. References
[1] Arslan, A., Kaplan, M., Duman, H., Bayraktar, A., Ertürk, M., Henrick, B. M., Frese, S. A., & Karav, S. (2021). Bovine Colostrum and Its Potential for Human Health and Nutrition. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8, 651721. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8255475/ [2] WebMD. Bovine Colostrum: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. URL: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-785/bovine-colostrum [3] Hajihashemi, P., Haghighatdoost, F., Kassaian, N., Khorasani, M. R., Hoveida, L., Nili, H., Tamizifar, B., & Adibi, P. (2024). Therapeutics effects of bovine colostrum applications on gastrointestinal diseases: a systematic review. Systematic Reviews, 13(1), 76. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10898101/ [4] Apollo Pharmacy. Colostrum: Uses, Side Effects and Medicines. URL: https://www.apollopharmacy.in/salt/Colostrum?srsltid=AfmBOooWGzDEzk0ZbVo4AtHImokaXt5ww-rDzms2Cv4JFJYSxCVZadg3 [5] BSW Health. Superfood or fad? The truth about colostrum supplements. URL: https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/superfood-or-fadCategory: Protein fraction
