THE colostrum the first milk produced by humans and other mammals in the first few days after birth, is “liquid gold,” according to Jennifer Smilowitz, an assistant professor in the department of nutrition at the University of California, Davis, in the United States.
“It’s packed with nutrients, but it’s also packed with molecules that aren’t necessarily nutrients — they’re biologically active compounds that are actually protective,” says Smilowitz, whose research focuses on breastfeeding, nutrition, lactation and the microbiome.
These nutrients and compounds include immunoglobulins (or antibodies), white blood cells, vitamin A, magnesium, copper, zinc, growth factors and a variety of other components essential for boosting life, including the strength and structure of the immune system and gut, experts say.
These antibodies strengthen the leaky, fragile gut, sealing the intestine and preventing harmful bacteria or pathogens from entering the bloodstream in an unregulated way, according to Smilowitz. Colostrum protects the baby during a vulnerable time.
But “today we’re seeing a huge increase in colostrum supplements for adults to consume — with some big health claims that may or may not be true,” Caroline Thomason, a Virginia-based dietitian and diabetes educator, says in an email.
Colostrum supplements, often derived from cows, are popular for their potential to boost immunity, improve gut health and enhance athletic performance, explains Lisa Young, a registered dietitian and adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University, via email.
Collected from dairy cows in the first few days after calving, processed and pasteurized to be safe for human consumption, bovine colostrum is available in forms such as powders, tablets, liquids and even as an enema.
“It’s a delicate process, as it involves preserving the bioactive compounds while ensuring the product is safe for consumption,” says Thomason.
“The rise in influencers talking about colostrum supplements seems to have contributed to the boom (in consumption) over the past year or so,” he adds.
Celebrities have also been promoting colostrum as a health tool — American social media personality and model Sofia Richie included the supplement in the $21 smoothie she launched with upscale California food store Erewhon, as did artist The Kid LAROI.
“However,” Thomason points out, “it’s important to note that while these benefits sound exciting, the research on colostrum is still relatively new and not entirely conclusive.”
How colostrum affects human health
One of the main reasons some people turn to colostrum for health benefits is because of intestinal inflammation — which makes physiological functions resemble those of a vulnerable baby, explains Smilowitz.
This inflammation can be caused by diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, chronic infections, chronic diarrhea or HIV, or by the effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, according to the professor.
“There is some preliminary evidence that colostrum may support immunity and gut health, particularly in people with compromised immune systems or intestinal permeability issues,” says Thomason. A few small studies have found that colostrum may stimulate the growth of intestinal cells and strengthen the intestinal walls.
Other research has suggested benefits for respiratory tract infections. A 12-week study of 35 adult long-distance runners found that taking a daily colostrum supplement increased the amount of certain antibodies in participants’ saliva by 79 percent, which the authors believe could strengthen participants’ ability to fight off 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 the risk of respiratory infection.
It’s important to note that the results of these studies only indicated changes in immune biomarkers — not necessarily outcomes or improvements in events within the immune system, such as getting sick, according to Julie Stefanski, a registered dietitian in Pennsylvania and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
“And so sometimes the dose used in the study is much, much higher than what’s sold in a supplement,” Stefanski adds.
There are also anecdotal reports of improved skin health and post-exercise recovery, but scientific research in these areas is still scarce, according to Thomason. There is no solid evidence to support claims of weight loss or reversal of age-related changes.
There’s also the question of who funds the research. Supplement or dairy companies, or health experts affiliated with them, have funded most of the research on colostrum supplements, which has largely not been replicated, experts say. Some studies have also yielded mixed results, Smilowitz says.
What to know before you buy
As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare professional before starting and following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial, says Thomason, especially if you have a gastrointestinal condition.
“Colostrum supplementation is generally considered safe for most people, but there are risks, particularly for people with milk allergies. Large doses can potentially lead to digestive discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhea,” says Thomason. Children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid taking colostrum.
“Plus, these supplements are expensive, and you may not see any health improvements,” he adds.
The cost of colostrum supplements can range from about $15 to $200 per bottle, depending in part on the quality — which is important because higher quality means lower risk of contamination, Young says.
Quality is determined by factors such as the health of the cow, her environment and diet, whether she has been vaccinated, the season, her breed, the time between pregnancies and the timing of colostrum collection, according to Smilowitz.
Although calves need to receive their first colostrum, colostrum collected on the third or fourth day is healthier than colostrum collected a week later. Given the sensitivity of the collection process, a cheaper supplement is likely to be less effective, Stefanski said.
Additionally, colostrum from grass-fed, outdoor-raised cows is better than that from conventionally raised cows.
Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate supplements, knowing which colostrum supplements are worth your money can be tricky.
But to choose the highest-quality supplement possible, look for products that are third-party tested for quality and purity, recommends Keri Gans, a registered dietitian in New York State.
You can also check the manufacturer’s website or contact customer service for more details that may not be on the packaging, according to experts.
“While colostrum may offer some health benefits, it is not a silver bullet, and more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects and safety,” says Young.
Prioritizing a healthy, balanced diet, as well as exercise and sleep, will greatly improve your health, according to Thomason.
This content was originally published in “Liquid gold”: what is bovine colostrum and what are its benefits on the CNN Brasil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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