Frequently Asked Questions
Why bovine colostrum?
Research has shown that the immune and growth factors in cow’s colostrum are nearly identical to those in human colostrum. Bovine colostrum is not species-specific and can benefit all mammals, including humans. Furthermore, dairy cows produce an abundance of colostrum—more than enough to supply human needs without depriving newborn calves.
How can I benefit from colostrum as an adult?
As we age, our bodies gradually produce less and less of the immune and growth factors that help fight disease, repair body tissue and promote energy and vitality. With the decline of these components over time, we age until we eventually die. Colostrum is the only natural source of these life-supporting immune and growth factors.
How safe is colostrum?
Colostrum is a natural food product and can be consumed with no adverse side effects or drug interactions. Thousands of years of human use and thousands of scientific studies and human clinical trials worldwide have proven bovine colostrum to be safe and effective for people of all ages.
How much colostrum should I take?
The ideal dosage of colostrum will vary amongst individuals and depend on factors such as age, weight and health. In general, the greater the immune system enhancement and growth support desired, the greater the dosage. Research has shown that as little as 125mg of genuine first milking colostrum taken orally is sufficient to trigger an immune response. Start with the directions on the bottle and increase the dosage until you achieve your desired results. Or, alternatively, many people start at double or triple the suggested dosage and then gradually reduce it to a maintenance level after the desired results are reached. More colostrum can be taken during times of stress and illness to speed up recovery and reduce severity of symptoms. There have never been any reported side effects from taking too much colostrum.
What if I’m lactose intolerant?
With first milking colostrum, it shouldn’t be a problem. Genuine first milking colostrum is very low in lactose, containing only about 20-25mg of lactose per 200mg lozenge (an 8 oz glass of milk contains over 13,000mg of lactose). Typically, 77mg of lactose is required to trigger an allergic response in most lactose intolerant individuals.
Can I take colostrum with other supplements/medications?
Colostrum heals the digestive tract so that all substances taken internally (eg. food, herbs, supplements, medication) become more bioavailable to the body. When taking colostrum, you may find that the other supplements and medications that you are taking will have a more pronounced effect.
Can I give colostrum to my children?
Pediatricians recommend that infants who have not been breastfed be given colostrum to supplement their formula. Colostrum can help children recover from recurring viral or bacterial infections and most children can be helped at the onset of a cold or flu by giving them colostrum until the symptoms disappear.
Can I give colostrum to my pets?
Bovine colostrum is great for dogs, cats and all other mammals as it is not species-specific. Your pet will love the taste of colostrum; just put a little powder in your hand and let them lick it off, or you can sprinkle it over their food.
Why is “first milking” so critical?
The concentration of beneficial immune and growth factors is highest and in perfect balance only in first milking colostrum. Only genuine first-milking colostrum is used in the thousands of clinical and scientific research studies as colostrum collected from subsequent milkings may not provide the desired results. In fact, colostrum harvested just 24 hours after birth of the calf contains less than one quarter of the immune and growth factors found at birth.
Why is oral delivery so important?
The greatest benefits observed in scientific colostrum studies were achieved via oral delivery (absorption in the mouth). Because most infectious microorganisms enter the body through the nose or mouth, the oral cavity is specially designed with mucus membranes and salivary glands that secrete powerful immune components. The oral cavity is loaded with receptor sites which, when activated, alert the entire body through a complex chain reaction of immune system events. Colostrum absorbed in the oral cavity activates the entire body’s immune pathways to open to self-healing.
Is colostrum free from hormones, antibiotics and pesticides?
Colostrum from USDA-certified Grade A dairy cows are typically free of any harmful substances. Grade A dairy cows are typically fed a managed organic diet of grains and legumes and are given vitamins and minerals for optimal health. All colostrum must be tested to be free from harmful substances of any kind (including bacteria, heavy metals, hormones, antibiotics and pesticides) before it can be sold for human use. If in doubt, ask to see a certificate of analysis done by an independent laboratory.
What about New Zealand colostrum?
New Zealand has an excellent reputation for high quality dairy products. When it comes to its colostrum, however, it depends how you define the word “colostrum.” It is no secret that New Zealand colostrum is collected from the first five milkings and as far out as 48 hours after the birth of the calf. In dairy science terms, colostrum harvested this long after birth is commonly referred to as “transitional milk.” Remember, colostrum harvested just 24 hours after birth of the calf contains less than one quarter of the immune and growth factors found at birth.