COLOSTRUM

Description
Colostrum is the clear/cloudy “pre-milk” that female mammals secrete prior to producing milk. Colostrum for dietary supplements is usually derived from bovine sources (cows) and contains various immunoglobulins (also called antibodies) as well as additional antimicrobial factors (i.e. lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, lysozyme and growth factors).
# Claims Immune support (Proventra from Galagen)
# Reduction of diarrhea
# Gastrointestinal support
# Improved exercise performance and recovery (Intact from Northfield Labs)

Theory
Bovine colostrum contains the same disease resistance factors (immunoglobins) which are found in human breast milk and unpasteurized cow's milk. The wide variety of “immune factors” which may be effective against various viruses, bacteria, yeast and other invaders. Among these immune factors are immunoglobins, antibodies, lactoferrin, lactalbumin, glycoproteins, cytokines (such as IL-1, IL-6, and interferon Y) and various polypeptides, growth factors, vitamins and minerals. The antibodies present colostrum are thought to combine with disease-causing microorganisms in the GI tract. By adhering to pathogens, colostrum antibodies may be able to reduce the adhesive properties of bacteria and decrease the bug’s ability to attach to the intestinal wall (which could prevent their entrance into the body). It is unlikely that the “full” antimicrobial benefits of colostrum can be realized unless you happen to be a baby cow (because the immunoglobulins are largely digested in the gut and cannot be absorbed intact). It may be possible, however, for partially digested immunoglobulin fragments to retain a small portion of their functional properties.

Scientific Support
It is no secret that in response to a disease (or vaccination) the body produces specialized antibodies and general defense components to fight invading infections. It is also no secret that infants fed baby-formula (instead of breast milk) are more prone to a variety of infections (pasteurized infant formula contains none of the active antibodies and other immune components naturally present in human breast milk). In infants, it has been shown that intact immunoglobulin molecules and active fragments were still capable of in vitro (test tube) immune activity after traveling through the digestive tract. Whether the same is true for adults is largely unknown. It has been shown, however, that active antibodies can be recovered in the intestines and feces following colostrum consumption (about half of the ingested dose is still present following 6hrs). Several small clinical studies of colostrum consumption have been conducted – though many are only published as abstracts. In one study, the administration of bovine immunoglobulins (in a mouthrinse) reduced yeast infections in bone marrow transplant patients. At least a few studies have shown the benefits of ingesting colostrum in neutralizing the activity of several strains of bacteria and parasites in causing diarrhea. In another study of children and adults with chronic gastritis, symptoms were improved and inflammation was reduced, suggesting that colostrum may be effective against H. pylori (the bacteria that causes ulcers). In terms of sports performance, one study looked at 39 males during an 8 week running program (3 runs of 45 minutes per week) while consuming colostrum (60 grams per day) or whey protein. The study found no differences in plasma IGF-1 concentrations in either group during the study period but the colostrum group ran further and did more work than the placebo group by week 8 (equal to a 2% increase in performance). Another study examined rowing performance in a group of elite female rowers. Eight rowers completed a 9 week training program while consuming either colostrum (60 grams per day) or whey protein (placebo). By week 9, rowers consuming colostrum had greater increases in the distance covered and work done compared to the placebo group. One of the only published references on bovine colostrum consumption suggested that it could help prevent and treat the gastric injury associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and may also be of value for the treatment of other ulcerative conditions of the bowel. The study, which examined rats and mice, found a 30-60% reduction in gastric injury following colostrums treatment Taken together, the available evidence for bovine colostrum is adequate to support its benefits as a mild immune-supporting supplement – particularly when interactions with pathogens in the intestinal tract are possible. It is unlikely, however, that colostrum would provide immune benefits against airborne pathogens and upper respiratory tract infections such as cold and influenza (flu).

Safety
No adverse side effects are expected up to doses of 60 grams per day – but those individuals with milk allergies should avoid bovine colostrum.

Value
The price range for colostrum products is quite large – with products selling between $15 and $40 for a 1-month supply of capsules or powder. Of special note is the fact that most capsule-form products provide no more than 1 gram of colostrum per serving (1 capsules) and powder forms go up to about 5-10 grams or so (per scoop). These levels are well below the levels shown to be effective in the studies mentioned above (as much as 60 grams per day in some studies) – meaning that a “clinically effective” dose might cost you $30 per DAY and mean that you’re swallowing 60 capsules. Whether or not these lower levels will be effective is unknown. Because virtually all of the scientific studies on colostrum have been conducted on 2 specific brands, Proventra for immune benefits and Intact for exercise performance benefits, so if you decide to give colostrum a try, you should purchase a product that includes one of these brands.

Dosage
Typical dosage recommendations for commercial products range from 1-6 grams per day, but the majority of available research has used doses of about 10 times as much (60 grams in some studies). It is unknown whether or not these small (1-6 gram) doses will provide the benefits demonstrated in clinical studies.