Have you heard about colostrum? You’ll be surprised to learn about its many health benefits. Colostrum is an incredibly nutrient-rich fluid produced by all female mammals immediately after giving birth. It is a major constituent of “first milk”, the milk a mother passes on to a child shortly after birth. This complex biological fluid is loaded with immune, growth, and tissue repair factors that actively stimulate healthy growth. Colostrum promotes growth and health in newborns, and especially helps establish a healthy immune system. In fact, colostrum has over 90 health-building components and many of these factors have multiple functions.  

Ayurvedic physicians in India have prescribed colostrum to patients for thousands of years. This vital fluid is still a common choice of many families seeking immune support for all their family members. Colostrum research dates back to the late 1800’s. However, research dedicated to colostrum stagnated following the discovery and widespread use of penicillin in the 1940’s. Later, 20th century scientists began to study this unique fluid again. In 1950, Albert Sabin discovered that colostrum contained immunoglobulins called antibodies and began referring to this substance as “immune milk.”  

In more recent years, bovine colostrum has received significant press for its health boosting properties, especially revered for its immune-supporting abilities. Colostrum has a high concentration of the protective antibodies, IgA and IgG, proteins that help fight viruses and bacteria. These antibodies can help bolster your immune system to fight against disease-causing agents. Essentially, bovine colostrum serves as a form of passive immunity, supplying your body with antibodies that can help fight off infection.  

Some interesting studies have shown that a large percentage of the immunoglobulins present in colostrum are actually not absorbed at all when consumed. Instead, they can remain in the intestinal tract, where they help maintain a healthy intestinal microflora.  

In addition to these immune-boosting abilities, research shows that colostrum has remarkable muscular-skeletal repair and growth capabilities. Doesn’t it make sense that the “first milk” you get as a child from your mother’s breastmilk is designed to help you build healthy bones and boost growth? Colostrum also contains thymosin, a hormone compound composed of two protein chains (alpha and beta) that acts on the thymus gland to stimulate activation of the immune system. Other colostrum factors have significant muscle and cartilage repair characteristics.  

Colostrum’s illustrious research shows that it can boost immunity and promote healthy growth and tissue repair. Taken as a powder when mixed in drinks or as capsules, bovine colostrum can be a powerful agent to add to your nutritional regimen