Bovine colostrum is the initial milk produced and secreted by cows after birthing a calf. It can be consumed to improve recovery after physical exercise, strengthen immunity and reduce intestinal inflammation.
Bovine colostrum is high in proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, as well as immunoglobulin A (IgA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG). These are nutrients and antibodies that naturally have immunomodulatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial action.
This supplement is used in some countries to make cheese and yogurt. Like most nutritional supplements, bovine colostrum is approved for sale in the USA, however it is not regulated by the FDA.
Health benefits
The main indications for bovine colostrum include:
1. Improving physical performance
Bovine colostrum can help to increase physical performance when training, as it is rich in IGF-1, IGF-2, lactoferrin and lysozymes. It also contains hormones like growth hormone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and glucocorticoids.
Therefore, bovine colostrum can be taken to enhance training results, as it improves recovery and increase muscle strength.
2. Boosting immunity
Because it contains immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), lactoferrin, casein and growth factors, bovine colostrum can help to regulate the functioning of defense cells like lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells. It can be taken to boost immunity.
However, more studies in humans are still needed to support the effects of bovine colostrum on the immune system.
3. Reducing intestinal inflammation
Bovine colostrum contains immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, glycomacropeptide and Nglycans, which are compounds with prebiotic, bactericidal and modulating action. These can help to balance gut flora and reduce intestinal inflammation.
Therefore, bovine colostrum can be taken to prevent conditions such as constipation, diarrhea, colitis, as well as promoting gut health after taking antibiotics.
However, more scientific studies carried out in humans are needed to confirm these benefits.
4. Reducing the risk for respiratory condition
Bovine colostrum contains lactoferrin, immunoglobulins and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-β), which are compounds with immunomodulatory, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. By helping to boost your body's natural defenses, bovine colostrum can also reduce your risk for developing a respiratory condition.
Can bovine colostrum cause weight gain?
When consumed within a healthy diet, associated with regular physical exercise and in moderation, bovine colostrum does not make you gain weight.
However, excessive intake of bovine colostrum, associated with an inadequate diet and a sedentary lifestyle, can make you gain weight.
How to take
The colostrum supplement can be used in the form of capsules or powder, with a maximum of 4g per day being recommended.
Ideally, you should prioritize brands of bovine colostrum that comply with health legislation, to ensure quality and prevent the risk of contamination of these products.
Possible side effects
Possible side effects of bovine colostrum are nausea, excess gas, diarrhea and itchy skin. However, these symptoms may appear mainly in people with lactose intolerance or an allergy to cow's milk protein.
Contraindications for use
The colostrum supplement should not be used by people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to cow's milk protein.
Bovine colostrum is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding women or children, as there are no studies available that support the safety of this supplement in these populations.
Furthermore, the World Anti-Doping Agency does not recommend the use of bovine colostrum by athletes, because this supplement contains growth factors which can impact the results of anti-doping tests.