Colostrum from human and cow mothers have been scientifically proven rich in natural vitamins and minerals – giving newborns resistance against various infections and diseases. One component of colostrum is immunoglobulin A (IgA), an abundant form of antibody that prevents microbial attacks and promotes a healthy gut microbiota and immune system homeostasis.
More carbohydrates, fat, proteins are found in colostrum than in regular breast milk. Hence, it is highly encouraged and preferable to powdered milk formulas. Bovine colostrum is manufactured with the same nutrients as humans to combat nutrient deficiencies and multiple ailments and promote overall health. Nowadays, you can now buy colostrum online.
What is Colostrum and its Benefits?
Colostrum is a term that describes the ‘first milk’ of all mammals at birth up to five days post-natal. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, amino acids, peptides, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, B12, E, calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
Colostrum supplements have a modulating effect on the immune system. They contain natural healing components that stimulate healthy cellular activities and promote regeneration and repair of nerves, bones, muscles, skin, and vital organs.
When mixed with water, it can be used as a topical treatment for skin irritations, dermatitis, cuts, burns, and skin revitalization. It also effectively lowers and regulates blood glucose and cholesterol due to high amounts of insulin growth factors (IGF).
Both human and bovine colostrum have proteins and peptides that elicit natural antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Carbohydrates promote a healthy gut environment, while fats and lipids are good for cardiovascular health.
Studies have also shown that colostrum supplements have great potential in treating certain types of cancers, asthma, type I diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, severe diarrhea, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn’s disease, Coeliac diseases, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, cellulitis, and multiple sclerosis.
Alongside its positive benefits, there are also restrictions and contraindications. People who have dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, and are vegetarian may have to skip using this. These supplements have estrogen components; thus, patients with ovarian, breast, and prostate cancer need to consult their physicians before usage.
Why Do Adults Need Colostrum Supplements?
Pure bovine colostrum is considered a natural cure for many diseases and can be taken as a dietary health supplement. It can be taken by people of all ages, especially with deficiencies and ailments. The healthy cells are stimulated and reproduced; thus, the entire immune system is rebooted and enhanced to repair damages and treat infections in the body.
Proper knowledge and assessment are necessary for choosing the right product for you. Hence, if you’re looking for colostrum supplements, here’s how to shop for them:
- Consult Your Doctor
A colostrum supplement is filled with many nutrients beneficial to your overall health. However, you must consult your doctor before incorporating it into your daily routine. Supplements are not substitutes for a completely healthy diet. In some cases, they are prescribed when your body needs specific nutrients due to a nutrient deficiency or illness.
Your body mass index (BMI), weight, age and height are highly considered factors in giving the proper dosage of supplement intake and avoiding harmful adverse effects or overdose. Nowadays, blood testing can be performed to know and understand your supplement needs. If you are lactose intolerant or allergic to certain ingredients, your doctor can give you other options.
Furthermore, safe and effective products must be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Your doctor can give you a list of FDA-approved colostrum supplements that are clinically proven to improve your health.
- Evaluate Colostrum Supplement Brands
There are many colostrum supplements brands in the market. While shopping, read the label thoroughly and consider the following factors:
- Place of Manufacture
Many countries are now manufacturing colostrum supplements. Generally, all products are effective. However, you should also consider the manufacturing company’s location in choosing the right product. A high-quality bovine and production are necessary to produce a high-standard colostrum supplement.
- What type of cattle feeding?
Feedlot-raised cattle roam around vast fields to eat, while pasture-fed ones are regularly monitored, grown, and fed in ranches with owners. It would be best to consider pasture-fed because the grass and soil in the fields have live enzymes and nutrients needed for better growth and health. They have antibodies that are good for colostrum production.
- First Milking
Look for the first milking production. Colostrum lasts up to five days before it transitions into mature milk. The first milking is rich in all the nutrients needed to make a good colostrum supplement.
- Fat Content
Lipids or fats are significant components of colostrum. Full-fat content spoils and expires faster than de-fatted colostrum. If you opt for longer shelf life, choose the latter one. Good colostrum is usually made with the fat left intact.
- See if Clinically Tested and FDA Approved
You should always check the description, labels, and instructions. Ensure that the colostrum supplement is clinically tested and FDA-approved with no artificial and harmful ingredients added. A colostrum supplement must not contain antibiotics, heavy metals, pesticides, and harmful organisms.
- Compare Prices
The prices of colostrum supplements can range from affordable to costly premium ones. They can be in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders. A pricier one may not guarantee a better choice but make sure you check credible brands and choose a budget-friendly product that best suits you.
In Conclusion
Colostrum supplements are widely known to help the body’s immune system combat various infections and diseases. Consult your doctor to undergo blood testing and have a deeper understanding of your condition and nutritional needs. A thorough examination and testing might be needed if you have pre-existing diseases.
Ensure to analyze and read the descriptions, labels, and instructions. Evaluate critical factors such as the manufacturer’s location, cattle feeding type, milking type, and fat content. Certify if it is clinically tested and FDA-approved. Lastly, look for a supplement that fits your budget.