Colostrum – specifically bovine colostrum – is the first milk that a mother provides to her newborn calf. In fact, all female mammals produce colostrum, but that of the bovine variety is often taken as a supplement by athletes and others because of its immune-boosting properties. However, it's important that the product comes from only the first milkings as this milk contains a host of beneficial immune factors called proline-rich polypeptides, which include:
- Cytokines for stimulating an under-active immune system
- Immunoglobulin, which helps repair muscles
- Lactoferrin – an iron-binding protein that helps release iron into the red blood cells and also deprives bacteria of the iron it needs to reproduce
- Many others
Colostrum also contains insulin-like growth factors which restore muscles and build immune support, as well as a host of nutritional components like vitamins, minerals, essential oils and amino acids.
If you're looking for a bovine colostrum supplement to boost your immune system and regulate your intestinal health, check out Proline-Rich Polypeptides with Colostrum PLUS, which comes in capsule form. Or, consider mixing the flavorless Symbiotics Colostrum Plus Powder into your protein shake for a healthy immune boost.
