Really good!
Colostrum — rich in immune proteins and vital nutrients
Colostrum is something truly special. It is the very first milk produced after birth, containing a wide variety of protective and vital substances for the newborn. This ensures the baby gets an optimal start in life. In addition to vitamins and minerals, the valuable substances in colostrum include, above all, immune factors—that is, numerous antibodies and other immune proteins such as lactoferrin. These help the newborn build up its own immune defenses.
Lactoferrin is also produced and released in the body by mucous membranes, certain glandular tissues, and specific immune cells known as neutrophils. However, the highest concentration is found in colostrum, from which it can be specifically extracted. For humans, cow colostrum is a very valuable and well-tolerated source because its composition is nearly identical to that of human colostrum. Good to know: Mother cows usually produce significantly more colostrum than their calves need; only this surplus may be used in colostrum or lactoferrin products.
The Effects of Colostrum
Colostrum is a very special combination of natural substances that is unique. In addition to vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it contains, above all, numerous immune proteins and growth factors. Its effects therefore center on:
- Direct defense against bacteria and viruses:
Colostrum directly fights off bacteria and viruses with the help of its various immune proteins. These defense molecules include, for example:
- Antibodies (immunoglobulins IgA, IgG, IgM)
- Lactoferrin
- Lysozyme
- Lactoperoxidase - Building the Immune System:
Colostrum promotes and regulates a healthy immune system primarily through lymphocytes—that is, certain types of white blood cells—as well as through immunological signaling molecules (cytokines, etc.) and the hormone PRP (proline-rich polypeptide). - Growth and Repair:
Colostrum contains various growth factors—that is, specialized protein molecules that act between and within cells, particularly during growth. This not only helps newborns in their development but also aids adults in tissue regeneration, for example, when injuries occur in muscle and tendon fibers or in skin or cartilage cells.
Valuable Colostrum in Capsules
Not only newborns, but also growing children and adults can benefit from colostrum because their bodies are already familiar with its ingredients from the first milk. For this reason, colostrum is also available in capsule form as a dietary supplement.
Here’s an insider tip: Colostrum is particularly nutrient-rich right after birth, which is why the first 12 hours of a cow’s colostrum is preferred. About 80 percent of the nutrients are transferred within the first 12 hours. In humans, the composition of colostrum changes after 18 to 36 hours and then, after two to five days, becomes regular breast milk.
This is precisely why Pro Agalostrum capsules contain a high-quality colostrum extract from milk produced within the first 12 hours, supplemented with the agaricus mushroom (Agaricus blazei Murill) and vitamin D3 to support a healthy immune system and strengthen the body’s defenses. To ensure that the valuable nutrients in colostrum are not destroyed by heat, Pro Agalostrum uses cold sterile filtration to sterilize it and then gently freeze-dries it.
Lactoferrin — the Special Immune Protein in Colostrum
Lactoferrin is a multifunctional, antiviral, and antibacterial immune protein anda component of the innate immune system. It is found primarily in colostrum, but also in mucous membranes, glandular tissues, and neutrophils (a type of immune cell).
Lactoferrin belongs to the group of glycoproteins known as the transferrin family. This means that it can bind to iron and thus also contributes tobalanced iron metabolism. And that brings us almost to the origin of the name “lactoferrin”: Since it is found primarily in colostrum and (breast) milk, the name is composed of “lacto” (meaning “milk”) and “ferrin” (meaning “iron”).
Lactoferrin is also particularly important for the good bacteria in the gut. It promotes the growth of these bacteria, thereby supporting ahealthy gut microbiotaand, consequently, a healthy intestinal barrier.
The effects of lactoferrin are summarized as follows:
- Boosting the Immune System
- Supporting Iron Homeostasis
- Improving Gut Health
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Colostrum is the term used to describe the first milk produced by female mammals, which is used to nourish the newborn shortly after birth. It is particularly rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that are especially important for the newborn at this time. The colostrum available commercially as a dietary supplement is usually cow colostrum, which also offers many health benefits for humans.
Colostrum is associated with numerous health benefits, including:
- Strengthening the Immune System: Due to its high concentration of antibodies, colostrum is believed to have beneficial effects on the immune system.
- Improved Digestion: The many growth factors and anti-inflammatory properties can support the health of the digestive tract.
- Energy and Vitality: Thanks to its high content of valuable nutrients, colostrum can support energy levels and vitality.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Colostrum contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Colostrum is particularly rich in:
- Antibodies: Unlike humans, cows are born without an immune system. That is why this colostrum contains many antibodies that protect the newborn from infections.
- Growth factors: Colostrum contains many growth factors that support the development of a newborn's bones, muscles, immune system, and digestive tract.
- Nutrients: Colostrum is a natural source of essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
- Anti-inflammatory compounds: Colostrum contains bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the newborn.
Lactoferrin, as found in Pro Lactoferrin Immun, is a versatile immune protein with antibacterial and antiviral properties. It supports iron metabolism and strengthens the immune system.
All forms provide valuable nutrients, but differ in terms of processing and handling. Capsules—such as those in Pro Agalostrum —are particularly convenient. They contain concentrated colostrum from the first 12 hours, which is preserved in top quality through gentle freeze-drying.
Colostrum is used to support the immune system, protect against pathogens, and promote recovery. Thanks to its growth factors and immune proteins, it can be helpful during times of stress, increased susceptibility to infection, or periods of heightened physical strain.
