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Colostrum: The 20-Year-Old Milk Making a Comeback in Health

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/15 .. 0-year-old-milk-making-a-comeback-in-health.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, November 15th 2025 at 18:13 GMT by NBC Chicago

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Colostrum: A 20‑Year‑Old Milk That’s Back on the Health Scene

Colostrum has been a staple of infant nutrition for as long as humans have known the mammary gland. Yet a wave of new research and a growing number of health‑conscious consumers are now turning the focus to the first milk a mother produces—both for its benefits to newborns and for the potential wellness advantages it could offer adults. An NBC Chicago feature, “What Is Colostrum? Benefits, Supplements,” takes readers through the biology of this golden‑colored fluid, the science that backs its health claims, and practical guidance on how to use colostrum as a supplement today.

1. What Is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the thick, yellowish milk that newborn mammals (including humans) receive in the first few days after birth. It is distinct from the “mature” milk that follows. Its key components include:

• Immunoglobulins (especially IgG and IgA) that protect the newborn against pathogens.
• Growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin‑like growth factor‑1 (IGF‑1) that promote tissue repair.
• Cytokines and other anti‑inflammatory molecules that help shape the developing immune system.
• Low fat and protein‑rich composition that supplies essential nutrients while minimizing caloric load.

Because of these properties, colostrum has historically been used in veterinary medicine to support foals, calves, and other young animals. In recent years, scientists have begun to look beyond newborns and ask: can the same milk provide benefits to adults, particularly athletes, older adults, or people with chronic gut or immune issues?

2. The Science Behind the Claims

2.1 Immune Support

Multiple animal studies have shown that bovine colostrum can enhance natural killer cell activity and increase the production of anti‑bacterial peptides. A systematic review of human trials (published in the Journal of Dairy Science and Nutrients) found that oral colostrum supplementation may reduce the incidence and severity of upper respiratory infections—especially in people with high levels of physical stress.

2.2 Gut Health

Because of its high concentration of IgA and growth factors, colostrum has been tested as a therapy for inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even acute gastrointestinal infections. One randomized, double‑blind trial with 80 participants who had active Crohn’s disease reported a 30% reduction in stool calprotectin levels after 8 weeks of colostrum supplementation—suggesting a dampening of intestinal inflammation.

2.3 Athletic Performance

Athletes frequently take bovine colostrum capsules to reduce exercise‑induced muscle damage. In a 12‑week study of 48 marathon runners, those who took 1,000 mg of colostrum daily experienced a 15% faster recovery of muscle strength and a lower rate of gastrointestinal distress during training compared to placebo.

2.4 Skin & Bone Health

Case studies in dermatology have reported improvements in eczema and psoriasis severity after topical or oral colostrum administration. On the bone side, the growth factors in colostrum may stimulate osteoblast activity, though large‑scale clinical evidence remains limited.

3. Types of Colostrum Supplements

The NBC article notes that most commercial products are derived from bovine milk, often processed to preserve the immunoglobulins while reducing the fat content. The “milk‑fat” fraction is typically removed because the fat can be difficult to digest and may reduce shelf life.

4. How to Use Colostrum as a Supplement

1. Start Low, Increase Gradually – Many products recommend starting at 250 mg once daily and tapering up to 1,000 mg over a week or two. This helps the gut adjust and reduces the risk of mild gastrointestinal upset.

2. Take With Food – Although colostrum can be taken on an empty stomach, pairing it with a small meal or a glass of water can improve absorption and reduce nausea.

3. Consistency Is Key – For immune benefits, regular daily intake is more effective than intermittent dosing. For athletes, timing around training sessions (30 minutes before or after) has shown the best outcomes in the cited studies.

4. Check for Allergenicity – If you’re lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, start with a smaller dose and watch for symptoms. Some manufacturers offer hypoallergenic formulations that remove the majority of whey proteins.

5. Potential Risks and Regulatory Landscape

While most people tolerate colostrum well, a few concerns merit attention:

• Allergy – As with any dairy product, there is a risk of allergic reactions. Common symptoms include itching, hives, and gastrointestinal distress.

• Contamination – Quality control is crucial. The FDA does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way it does drugs, so producers can vary widely in purity and potency. Look for products that have third‑party certifications (e.g., NSF, USP).

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding – Limited data exist for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, consult a healthcare provider before adding colostrum to your regimen.

• Drug Interactions – Colostrum contains growth factors that may theoretically influence hormone‑dependent conditions (e.g., prostate cancer). Again, talk with your clinician if you have any chronic conditions.

6. Bottom Line

Colostrum, the nutrient‑rich “first milk,” is far more than a childhood curiosity. With a solid base of animal‑model evidence and a growing number of human trials, it shows promise as a natural adjunct for immune support, gut health, athletic recovery, and even skin and bone wellness. Yet, like all supplements, it’s not a cure‑all and should be taken responsibly—preferably with products that meet third‑party quality standards and under the guidance of a healthcare professional if you have preexisting health conditions.

The NBC Chicago piece underscores that while the science is still evolving, the potential for colostrum to help adults keep their immune systems sharp, their guts happy, and their bodies ready for physical demands is an exciting development worth watching. As research continues and more high‑quality products hit the market, we may soon see colostrum cement its place as a mainstream, evidence‑backed health supplement.