Colostrum and Supplementation
Colostrum and Supplementation.
Colostrum is the first milk the body produces during pregnancy. It forms in the mammary glands (breasts) and plays an important role in building the baby’s immune system.
It is the first milk the baby will get from the breasts.
It’s high in protein, vitamins, minerals and immunoglobulins (antibodies) that help build the baby’s immune system. It’s often called “liquid gold” because of its rich, golden color and valuable benefits.
Colostrum is high in protein and low in fat and sugar. It is filled with white blood cells that produce antibodies. These antibodies strengthen the newborn’s immune system protecting him or her from infection.
Colostrum is highly concentrated and nutrient-dense, even in tiny doses, so a lot isn’t needed to reap its benefits.
It’s made up of things like:
- Immunoglobulin A (an antibody).
- Lactoferrin (a protein that helps prevent infection).
- Leukocytes (white blood cells).
- Epidermal growth factor (a protein that stimulates cell growth).
It gets its color from carotenoids (an antioxidant) and vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a vital role in vision, skin and the immune system. Colostrum is rich in magnesium, which supports your heart and bones, and copper and zinc, which also support immunity.
There are distinct differences between colostrum and breast milk:
- Colostrum is filled with immunoglobulins to boost the immune system and protect from illness.
- Colostrum has two times as much protein.
- Colostrum has four times as much zinc.
- Colostrum is lower in fat and sugar so it’s easier to digest.
- Colostrum is thicker and more yellow.
Colostrum supplements, often derived from cows, are popular now for their potential to boost one’s immunity, improve gut health and enhance athletic performance, said Dr. Lisa Young, a registered dietitian nutritionist and adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University in New York City.
Collected from dairy cows within the first several days after birth and processed and pasteurized to be safe for human consumption, bovine colostrum is available in forms such as powders, pills and liquids.
One main reason some people turn to colostrum for health benefits is due to gut inflammation. That inflammation can be due to HIV, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, infections, chronic diarrhea or from the effects of cancer treatment like chemotherapy and radiation.
There is evidence from various studies that show that colostrum can support immunity and gut health, particularly in people with compromised immune systems or intestinal permeability issues. Some studies have found that colostrum may also boost the growth of intestinal cells and strengthen the walls of the gut.
Other research has suggested benefits for respiratory tract infections. One study of 35 adult distance runners taking a colostrum supplement daily, increased the amount of certain antibodies in their saliva by 79%, which the authors thought could strengthen participants’ ability to fight infections.
There were similar results in a separate study of 29 male cyclists, with a daily dose of 10 grams for five weeks associated with less decline in immune cells after exercise and a greater reduction in risk of respiratory infection.
Colostrum supplementation is considered safe for the majority of people, but there are cautions, particularly for folks with milk allergies. Large doses could lead to digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea. Children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid taking colostrum.
Quality is also an issue, so to choose the highest-quality supplement possible, look for products that are tested by a third party for quality and purity.
You can also check a manufacturer’s website or contact its customer service for more details. While colostrum offers some health benefits, further research is always going on to show other proven advantages.
We must also bear in mind that although colostrum is beneficial, we must prioritize balanced meals, exercise and rest and relaxation for holistic improvement and maintenance of health.
