Bovine colostrum has become increasingly popular in the supplement world, from gut health to immune support. In this blog we will explore: Does it actually work? Who might benefit? Is it safe?
First up: What is bovine colostrum?
Colostrum is a nutrient-dense milk released from the breasts of mammals after giving birth. The purpose of colostrum is to provide nourishment and certain nutrients to the offspring. Colostrum provides newborns with protein, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and antibodies. Bovine colostrum is the first milk produced by cows approximately 24-72 hours after giving birth. Standard bovine colostrum is high in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Current supplemental forms include powders, capsules, and drinks mixes, all of which contain powdered versions of colostrum.
What are the possible benefits?
The main benefits of colostrum that have been explored to date include: gut health and intestinal support, immune support, and athletic performance and recovery,
1 . Gut health and intestinal barrier support
Colostrum contains growth factors (such as insulin-like growth factor-1 [IGF-1] and transforming growth factor-beta [TGF-B]) that may help support intestinal cell repair. The integrity of the intestinal barrier is important because it prevents endotoxins from leaking into the bloodstream.
Small studies have shown benefits of colostrum for individuals who have increased intestinal permeability, particularly athletes, as strenuous exercise is associated with intestinal permeability.1,2,3 In regards to other GI symptoms, bovine colostrum has been associated with decrease in diarrhea frequency, but not duration, as well as mixed results for abdominal pain.4
Evidence for chronic digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease is limited, with little data on humans available.5,6 Yet in children, bovine colostrum has shown efficacy in reducing the number of episodes and hospitalizations due to diarrhea and upper respiratory tract infections.7
2 . Immune Support
Colostrum is rich in antibiotics, (IgG) and lactoferrin, both of which have antimicrobial activity. Thus, it is hypothesized that bovine colostrum can have benefits for immune support. Yet, the research in humans is currently quite limited. As mentioned above, bovine colostrum may offer modest immune support for upper respiratory infections in children.7
3. Athletic Performance and Recovery
In addition to improving the intestinal barrier, bovine colostrum holds promise for exercise recovery. Bovine colostrum may improve the immune response in athletes exposed to high training loads. Colostrum supplementation may be helpful in alleviating immune disturbances and decreasing the risk of upper respiratory tract infections that can come from high training volumes, among other stressors.8
4. Skin Health and Healing
There is currently limited evidence for bovine colostrum and skin health and healing. Potential benefits have been theorized based on the presence of growth factors and immune compounds in colostrum.
Well, is it safe?
Bovine colostrum is generally considered to be safe. Typical side effects include mild bloating, nausea, or digestive discomfort. Bovine colostrum is not considered safe for individuals with milk protein allergies. While colostrum has lower amounts of lactose compared to mature milk, individuals with lactose intolerance should observe symptoms if taking the supplement. There is currently not enough safety data for individuals who are pregnant and breastfeeding. Additionally, individuals on immunosuppressants or cancer therapies should consult their healthcare team prior to adding in a colostrum supplement.
After talking with your LCWNS RD and healthcare team, be sure that you are selecting a high quality supplement.
How to Choose a Quality Product
- Third-party testing (NSF, Informed Choice, USP, or ISO-certified labs)
- First milking or early milking colostrum
- Low heat processing (to preserve immunoglobulins)
- Transparent sourcing from reputable dairy operations
- Products with assayed IgG products
Bottom Line:
Bovine colostrum is a potentially promising supplement with some evidence for gut barrier support, immune benefits, and athletic recovery. Yet it is not entirely risk free for folks with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or immune disorders. More research is needed before we fully understand the possible risks and benefits.
For specific concerns, talk to your LCWNS RD and healthcare team. Like many other supplements, bovine colostrum should be used as a supportive tool in conjunction with other strategies, rather than a standalone treatment.
References:
- Hałasa M, Maciejewska D, Baśkiewicz-Hałasa M, Machaliński B, Safranow K, Stachowska E. Oral Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum Decreases Intestinal Permeability and Stool Concentrations of Zonulin in Athletes. Nutrients. 2017;9(4):370. doi:10.3390/nu9040370
- Dziewiecka H, Buttar HS, Kasperska A, et al. A Systematic Review of the Influence of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation on Leaky Gut Syndrome in Athletes: Diagnostic Biomarkers and Future Directions. Nutrients. 2022;14(12):2512. doi:10.3390/nu14122512
- Hajihashemi P, Haghighatdoost F, Kassaian N, et al. Bovine Colostrum in Increased Intestinal Permeability in Healthy Athletes and Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Dig Dis Sci. 2024;69(4):1345-1360. doi:10.1007/s10620-023-08219-2
- Hajihashemi P, Haghighatdoost F, Kassaian N, et al. Therapeutics effects of bovine colostrum applications on gastrointestinal diseases: a systematic review. Syst Rev. 2024;13(1):76. doi:10.1186/s13643-024-02489-1
- Yoon JY, Park SJ, Cheon JH. Effect of Colostrum on the Symptoms and Mucosal Permeability in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Placebo-controlled Study. Intest Res. 2014;12(1):80-82. doi:10.5217/ir.2014.12.1.80
- Sienkiewicz M, Szymańska P, Fichna J. Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Benefits and Contraindications. Advances in Nutrition. 2021;12(2):533-545. doi:10.1093/advances/nmaa120
- Saad K, Abo-Elela MGM, El-Baseer KAA, et al. Effects of bovine colostrum on recurrent respiratory tract infections and diarrhea in children. Medicine. 2016;95(37):e4560. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000004560
- Durkalec-Michalski K, Główka N, Podgórski T, Woźniewicz M, Nowaczyk PM. The effect of 12-week high-dose Colostrum Bovinum supplementation on immunological, hematological and biochemical markers in endurance athletes: a randomized crossover placebo-controlled study. Front Immunol. 2024;15:1425785. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2024.1425785
