Daily Health News Blog

Colostrum is the milky fluid secreted by all lactating mammals, including humans, in the first few days after giving birth, before breast milk is produced. This “first milk” contains hormones and factors that, among other things, promote cell development and growth, prime a newborn’s immune and digestive system, and help protect against infection. Like milk, it also contains protein, fat, milk sugar, vitamins, and minerals. Sound healthful, at least for babies, but could colostrum help adults who take it in supplement form (tablets, capsules and powders)? That’s how bovine (cow) colostrum is being marketed today, often in formulas that also contain other “immune-boosting” ingredients. Colostrum supplements are promoted to treat everything from arthritis and autoimmune diseases to ulcers, colitis, and various infections, as well as to slow aging, build muscle and improve mood and athletic performance. It’s a big leap, however, to think that bovine colostrum will benefit people...