It seems like almost monthly a new supplement hits the market with claims for health and wellness that often times seem too good to be true. Colostrum could be included in this group, so I want to discuss the potential benefits of incorporating this into your supplement regimen.

Colostrum has been around for as long as there have been mammals on this earth. Colostrum is what is often referred to as "pre-milk", or the fluid produced by the mother's mammary glands during the first 72 hours following the birth of a child

For those of you who have breastfed your children, you are probably well versed in this subject. For others this may seem a little foreign and for cattle producers, this has been studied since the 1960’s to treat sick calves.

Mothers In the 1950’s were encouraged to forgo breast-feeding for manufactured formulas, which were supposed to be better for infants. We know that science is good but God is better especially when knowing what is best for an infant, hence the return to breast-feeding today.

One of the benefits of colostrum is that it contains PRPs (proline-rich-polypeptides), which have been shown to be beneficial to our immune system. Some PRPs work by stimulating an underactive immune system to help fight viruses and antigens. Other PRPs work by toning down an overactive immune system, which is typical of autoimmune conditions where the body essentially attacks itself.

Nearly all infectious and degenerative diseases, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer and heart disease, are preceded or accompanied by impaired functioning of the immune system. This impairment can occur years or decades before the actual disease is diagnosed. Studies show that colostrum contains powerful immune factors that work to help restore a properly functioning immune system.

As I discussed in my previous 2 articles on autoimmune disorders, leaky gut may be the weak link in allowing foreign materials into our body causing an inflammatory response. Colostrum supports the immune system, tones down an overactive immune response and most importantly contains growth factors to heal a leaky gut.

You may be asking yourself, “Is bovine colostrum safe for human consumption”? Good question, but keep in mind that we are already safely consuming bovine milk and according to Dr. Robert Preston with the International Institute of Nutritional Research, "Colostrum is so safe, it has been prepared by nature as the first food for infants. It would be hard to imagine any nutritional substance more natural or beneficial."

Three things to consider when choosing a colostrum product: First, colostrum should come from pasture-fed cows that are pesticide, antibiotic and hormone free — essentially "organic". Second, flash pasteurization (to kill pathogens) plus low-heat spray drying is critical for an effective supplement. Third, a liposomal (enhanced) delivery system is important for optimal absorption. All products are not created equal and you get what you pay for.

I hope you found this information helpful. Stop by the pharmacy for more information on colostrum and its benefits. Until next time, be vigilant about your health!!