Bovine colostrum, the first milk derived immediately following the birth of the calf, is rich in immune and growth factors and has been found to have neutralizing activity against poisons produced by C. difficile. These poisons are called toxins A and B. This finding is important since toxinneutralizing activity in the human colon is needed to have therapeutic effects. The IgG family of immunoglobulins that kill these bacteria are the predominant ones in bovine colostrum (92%).

Both human and animal studies have found protection from colostrum containing high concentrations of IgG. In fact, use of colostrum is cited by the University of Florida Medical School, in Gainesville, in online medical information as standard for this bacterium. Studies further validate that using colostrum protects against liver disease.

Immune Milk

Because of its growth and immune factors necessary to repair tissues and muscle growth and blood sugar control, first-milking colostrum is attractive to consume regularly as an anti-aging and cell renewal super food. It is especially indicated when one is being prescribed antibiotics.

First-milking colostrum is obtained from dairy cows within the first six hours and is what’s always left after the calf is finished. True colostrum is produced before the birth of the calf and can only be collected for a short period of time without being diluted by the subsequent production of milk. At the time of birth, potency is at its peak. The active elements such as immune factors, growth factors, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents are at their highest concentrations. However, in fewer than 12 hours, the concentration of these components is only half of what it was at the time of birth. What this means is that the sooner the colostrum is collected, the less diluted it is with milk and the greater the concentration of beneficial factors. People take colostrum capsules as supplements or as a meal in shakes and smoothies.