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Colostrum - Health Benefits And It's Side Effects

Colostrum (also known as beestings or first milk ) is a form of milk produced by the mammary glands in late pregnancy and the first hours after giving birth. Colostrum is a thin, yellowish fluid secreted by the mammary glands of mammalian mothers in the first days after giving birth, before the production of true milk begins. It contains high levels of protein and growth factors, as well as immune factors that help to protect the newborn against infection. Taken as a supplement, colostrum can boost the immune system and help the body to bum fat and build lean muscle. It may also accelerate the healing of injuries, increase vitality and stamina, and have an anti-aging effect. Supplemental colostrum usually contains bovine (cow) colostrum. Good sources include New Life Colostrum from Symbiotics (both original and high-Ig formulas) and Colostrum Specific from Jarrow Formulas.

Colostrum contains many beneficial substances. The most important of these substances are: Immunoglobins, Lactoferin, Proline-Rich Polypeptide, Cytokines and Vitamins.

Health benefits of colostrum

• Colostrum contains large numbers of antibodies called "secretory immunoglobulin" ( IgA ) that help protect the mucous membranes in the throat, lungs , and intestines of the infant.
• Colostrum also contains high concentrations of leukocytes, protective white cells which can destroy disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
• Bovine colostrum is sometimes used by humans as a dietary supplement , as it is known to have very effective immune enhancing properties.
• Colostrum has an especially important role to play in the baby's gastrointestinal tract. A newborn's intestines are very permeable. Colostrum seals the holes by "painting" the gastrointestinal tract with a barrier which mostly prevents foreign substances from penetrating and possibly sensitizing a baby to foods the mother has eaten.
  

Dosage information

It is recommend 1,000 to 4,000 mg per day of freeze-dried colostrum.

Side effects of colostrum

No side effects have been reported. Individuals suffering from diabetes, prostatitis, dwarfism, obesity, hypertension, HIV or cancer, should consult a qualified medical practitioner prior to the use of supplemental colostrum.