COLOSTRUM
Colostrum is the pre-milk fluid secreted by the mammary glands of mothers who have just delivered a newborn. The fluid is very high in a number of beneficial compounds. As soon as the breast begins making milk during the 24-48 hours after delivery, the concentration of these compounds drops to low levels.
Colostrum has immunoglobulins, antibodies, RPR (proline rich polypeptide that regulates the master immune gland, the thymus), lactoferrin, lactalbumin, cytokines, and lysozymes. These all boost the newborn’s immune system to protect it during the first few months of life. Also present are a variety of growth factors to assist tissue growth and regulate metabolism. The growth factors may improve brain function and mood; repair and regenerate aged or injured muscle, bone, cartilage, connective and nerve tissue. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) helps burn fat instead of muscle. These factors may also assist in DNA and RNA repair.
Numerous studies have been done on use of bovine (cow) colostrum in humans that show a variety of beneficial effects. A number of health professionals and their patients can attest to significant improvements in health from use of colostrums. Adverse or negative effects seem to be limited to provoking a healing crisis in some people.
When buying colostrums, it is considered a dietary supplement in this country. Therefore, buy only from the highest quality sources. The cows should be free from hormones and antibiotics and raised on organic feed. Get colostrums from the first day after birth since these are highest in the various compounds. The colostrums should not be defatted since the fat helps your body absorb the colostrums more efficiently. The colostrums should be processed at low temperature to avoid denaturing some of the proteins and not frozen after processing.
Colostrum is typically consumed twice a day on an empty stomach. Initial doses are usually higher, such as 2-3 grams per dose. As health improves, the dose is cut back. As with all supplements, unknown interactions with other supplements and drugs may be possible. However, since colostrum is a natural food substance, it is unlikely it would have any major negative effects.
Daniel Blodgett MD