Bovine Colostrum

Also known as: Bovine colostrum powder · First milk · ColostrumPlus

●●○Moderate Evidence

The first milk produced by cows after calving, concentrated in IGF-1, immunoglobulins, and growth factors. Reduces gut permeability, improves immune function, and modestly enhances athletic performance.

Effective Dose

20–60g / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Superfoods & Botanicals

Mechanism

IGF-1, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, PRPs — gut repair and immune modulation

primary action

Best For

Gut health

Immune function, Recovery, Athletic performance

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Bovine Colostrum?

Bovine colostrum is the pre-milk secretion produced by cows in the first 24–48 hours after calving. It is concentrated in IgG, IgA, IgM immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, lysozyme, growth factors (IGF-1, EGF, TGF-β), and proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs). Bovine colostrum is biologically similar to human colostrum and survives oral digestion to exert local and systemic effects.

How It Works: The Science

Immunoglobulins provide passive mucosal immunity, binding pathogens in the gut lumen. Lactoferrin has antimicrobial, antiviral, and iron-chelating properties. IGF-1 and EGF stimulate gut epithelial cell proliferation and repair — reducing leaky gut. PRPs modulate immune response (pro-inflammatory when needed, anti-inflammatory when overactive).

Primary Mechanism

IGF-1, immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, PRPs — gut repair and immune modulation

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces gut permeability (leaky gut)

moderate

Playford et al. (2001) — colostrum reduced NSAID-induced gut permeability in healthy adults

Improves athletic performance and recovery

moderate

Buckley et al. (2002) — 60g/day for 8 weeks improved sprint performance and recovery

Reduces upper respiratory illness in elite athletes

moderate

Shing et al. (2007) — reduced illness frequency and severity during training

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

20–60g / day

20–60g/day. Higher doses (60g) used in performance studies. Take 30 minutes before eating for maximum gut effect. Choose products with standardised immunoglobulin content (≥25% IgG).

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Dairy-derived — unsuitable for milk allergy. Lactose may be an issue for severely intolerant individuals (low content in most products). Contains IGF-1 — theoretical concern for IGF-1-sensitive cancers.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

Gut healthImmune functionRecoveryAthletic performance

Who it's for

Athletes with GI issues during training, those with leaky gut or frequent infections, and high-performance athletes wanting recovery support alongside whey protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Bovine Colostrum?

20–60g/day. Higher doses (60g) used in performance studies. Take 30 minutes before eating for maximum gut effect. Choose products with standardised immunoglobulin content (≥25% IgG).

Is Bovine Colostrum safe?

How does Bovine Colostrum work?

Who should take Bovine Colostrum?

Athletes with GI issues during training, those with leaky gut or frequent infections, and high-performance athletes wanting recovery support alongside whey protein.

Related Ingredients

Probiotics (Lactobacillus / Bifidobacterium)L-Glutamine Zinc Carnosine (PepZin GI)Whey Protein Isolate

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →