How a ‘magical’ milk strengthens and protects your life

What is colostrum and which nutrients does it contain?

Colostrum (first milk, foremilk or biest) is the first food of all mammals and serves as a passive baseline immunisation for the newborn. It is produced by the mother's body for 3–5 days after birth and gradually blends into the breast milk. Although colostrum is a type of milk, it is considerably richer than typical breast milk. The special feature of colostrum is that it contains more than 400 valuable nutrients and vital components that cannot be reproduced artificially.

Colostrum contains a wide range of macro‑ and micronutrients, including proteins, amino acids, copper, iron, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin B12. Another advantage is the presence of immunoglobulins, cytokines and growth factors, which act as immunomodulators and are important for the body's passive immunity.

How do immunoglobulins and cytokines strengthen the immune system?

Immunoglobulins (antibodies) are proteins that neutralise bacteria, viruses and other pathogens as well as foreign substances in the blood. Antibodies are divided into IgA, IgE, IgD, IgG and IgM and fulfil different functions. IgA protects mucous membranes, IgE is involved in allergic reactions, IgD stimulates antibody production, IgG neutralises toxins and IgM supports phagocytosis (elimination of disease‑causing cells).

Cytokines (interleukin‑6, tumour necrosis factor‑α, interferon‑γ) are signalling molecules that activate certain defence cells and counteract inflammatory processes, bacterial proliferation and the development of cancer.

What role do growth factors play in colostrum?

Growth factors are responsible for the repair capacity of cells and contribute to their growth. Some growth factors regulate the effect of growth hormone in the body, promote growth and cell division in many tissues, and regulate basic cell functions.

Lactoperoxidase is secreted by the mammary glands, salivary glands and bronchi and acts toxically against harmful microorganisms in milk and mucous secretions.

Lactoferrin acts as a natural antibiotic, reduces inflammatory factors and promotes iron absorption into the blood. Lactoferrin can scavenge free radicals and bind various toxic substances, thereby inhibiting inflammatory processes. It stabilises the immune system so that more white blood cells are produced, which are responsible for an effective fight against infections.

One study found that participants taking colostrum contracted influenza less often and for shorter periods than others who had received an influenza vaccine.

Scientists have identified a protein chain in colostrum (PRP, or Polyurethan‑Rich‑Peptide) made up of nine amino acids. These amino acids regulate the immune system in a manner similar to thymus hormones: on the one hand they trigger an immune response to pathogens, on the other hand they calm the overreactive response of the immune system, which is important in autoimmune diseases.

Can colostrum help with gut health and digestive problems?

Colostrum can also sustainably improve gut health: its unique components, released in the intestine, repair the gut and help combat digestive problems such as diarrhoea. Colostrum strengthens the intestinal wall by promoting the growth of intestinal cells and contributes to better utilisation of nutrients from food.

This has positive effects on the whole body. Antioxidants and growth factors, especially the protein IGF‑1, cause muscle fibres to thicken and grow faster. This supports overall performance improvement.

For which conditions is colostrum used therapeutically?

The unique health‑promoting composition of colostrum makes it a reliable ally in the fight against a variety of conditions and ailments such as chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, allergies, herpes simplex, herpes zoster, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. In addition, colostrum is used to prevent and treat influenza and various infections, to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, to relieve menopausal symptoms and to improve athletic performance.

Using colostrum: important tips for health and well‑being

• Capsules are the most common form for taking colostrum: they are easy to dose, have a long shelf life and exert their full effect in the gut. However, they cannot be dosed individually and some nutrients may be lost during manufacturing.
• Many prefer powder because it can be dosed individually and prepared as a drink. Powder is less stable and must be dosed precisely.
• Colostrum is also available in liquid form. It is fresh, high quality, individually dosable and provides numerous nutrients. This form, however, has an acquired taste and is extremely perishable.
• For topical use there are colostrum ointments. They care for the skin and speed up wound healing, but are often very expensive and contain many other ingredients.
• For dry skin a colostrum serum is suitable; it not only supports the skin's natural protective layer but also has rejuvenating effects. It should be used over a longer period.
• Note that colostrum can be obtained from different mammals. Bovine colostrum is best utilised. For people who do not tolerate cow's milk well, sheep colostrum may be suitable. In lactose intolerance choose goat colostrum.
• Check the IgG factor on the packaging. This number indicates how many immunoglobulins of class G the product contains compared with human colostrum. An IgG factor of 40, for example, means the product contains 40 times more immunoglobulin G than a comparable amount of human colostrum.
• The fresher the colostrum, the better its effect on the immune system. For a high‑quality product, milk collection should occur within the first 12 hours after birth.
• Taking colostrum is particularly beneficial for people with a weak immune system, frequent digestive problems, allergy sufferers and people who catch colds often, those who want to boost their immunity or improve their performance.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommended daily dose to avoid unwanted side effects. In acute situations, after consulting your doctor, you can let a small dose of colostrum dissolve in the mouth hourly. Many active ingredients enter the blood directly via the oral mucosa and provide rapid relief.
• Initial effects may appear after a few days, but a longer course of intake is recommended (usually at least four weeks).
• Colostrum can lower blood sugar in diabetics, naturally regulate blood values such as cholesterol, ketones and triglycerides, promote wound healing, positively influence overall regenerative capacity and reduce diabetes‑related complications. Because colostrum can improve insulin uptake, blood sugar should be monitored and insulin supply adjusted if necessary.
• A good product should be free of additives. To fight diseases choose colostrum with an immunoglobulin content of around 30%. To generally improve the immune system you can choose colostrum with a lower immunoglobulin content.
• For serious illnesses, consult a doctor. In lactose intolerance, side effects such as bloating and a feeling of fullness may occur.

Colostrum can have many positive effects on your health. Try it for yourself!