Colostrum, known as “liquid gold,” is the first milk that mammals produce after giving birth. It is rich in antibodies, proteins, vitamins and minerals essential for the development of the immune system and intestinal health of newborns. In the case of cows, production exceeds the needs of their calves, allowing collection and processing for human consumption.
Various personalities on social networks have now taken on the task of promoting bovine colostrum as a key supplement to improve intestinal health and other benefits, draws attention to the collaborator of the Science section of the Nationwide Public Radio (NPR), Ari Daniel.
The influencers’ claims include the possible effectiveness of bovine colostrum to treat gastrointestinal problems, strengthen the immune system and improve the appearance of the skin.
Contrary to this trend, although preliminary research suggests that colostrum could help in certain disorders, the medical community warns that current knowledge is limited, and experts point out that more research is required to confirm these benefits and determine that dosing guidelines are often ambiguous.
Alternatives and recommendations
Nutritionists advise prioritizing lifestyle changes, such as improving diet, increasing physical activity and managing stress, before turning to supplements. If using colostrum is considered, it is recommended to do so consistently and in a controlled environment to evaluate effectiveness.
“To think I can use a supplement but ignore those other factors is a big mistake,” says Rick Bloomer, a nutrition scientist and dean of the School of Health Sciences at the University of Memphis, who calls much of the marketing “overblown.”
Despite the low incidence of side effects, people with dairy intolerances are warned to avoid its consumption. Experts suggest paying attention to the cost-effectiveness of supplements, given the benefits of an adequate diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Research on bovine colostrum continues to develop. While there is promising evidence regarding its benefits for gut health, it is essential to evaluate these findings with caution and not consider them as a quick fix to health problems.
Difference between human colostrum and human colostrum
The fundamental difference between bovine and human colostrum is its immunoglobulin content.
Bovine colostrum is much richer in IgG (immunoglobulin G), while humans have a predominance of secretory IgAwhich is mandatory to protect the baby’s intestinal tract.
Risk groups and contraindications
- People with lactose intolerance or allergy to cow’s milk protein: They should not consume it, since the adverse effects are more frequent.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Not recommended due to lack of safety studies.
- Children: Not indicated due to lack of safety investigations.
- competitive athletes: The World Anti-Doping Agency does not recommend it because it contains growth factors that could influence anti-doping tests.
- People with HIV: Isolated cases reported nausea, vomiting, low red blood cell count, and abnormal liver tests.
Long-term theoretical concern. There is theoretical concern about the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE/mad cow disease)since the pathogen could be transmitted to bovine products and be related to Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans, although there is no clear evidence that this occurs with dairy products such as colostrum. It is recommended to avoid colostrum from countries with BSE cases.
Bovine colostrum appears safe for moderate use in healthy adults without dairy allergies, but Human studies are still lacking to confirm long-term safety.. Adverse effects are usually mild and resolve by reducing intake.
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