Bovine Colostrum: Nutrition And Health Benefits

Medically reviewed by Susan Fisher, MS, RD, LDN

Bovine colostrum is a liquid produced by the mammary glands of cows. It is the first milk produced after a cow gives birth and provides the calf with vital nutrients, hormones and substances that support the immune system.

Humans and other mammals also produce colostrum after birth.

In recent years, beef has become popular as a dietary supplement due to its purported health benefits. Research shows the potential role of cattle in exercise, immunity, digestion and hormones, among other things.

However, scientific evidence showing the benefits of cattle is limited.

This article will discuss the nutritional benefits and potential uses of cattle feeds. It will also cover cattle supplement safety, precautions, dosage and sources.

What is colostrum?

Colostrum is nutrient-rich milk produced and secreted by a mother's mammary glands after the birth of her baby. All mammals produce colostrum, a viscous (bovine) fluid that is usually yellow in color.

Female mammals produce colostrum five days after giving birth to their young. Colostrum has a different nutritional profile than breast milk and is important for a baby's health.

Both human and bovine colostrum contain various micro- and macronutrients, as well as hormones, growth and immune factors. Of the immune factors present in colostrum, immunoglobulin G (IgG) may be the most important because it provides immediate immunity in infants.

Compared to cattle, the concentrations of many nutrients and substances in the human torso are different. Additionally, the proteins found in human colostrum play a different role than the proteins found in bovine colostrum.

Although colostrum is primarily recommended for infants, in some cultures people use animal colostrum throughout their lives for overall health. Animal colostrum is also sometimes used as an alternative medicine.

Cattle is used as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits, which are believed to be due to its bioactive compounds and nutritional profile.

Nutritional value of cattle

One of the most interesting aspects of beef shank is its nutritional value.

Cow's colostrum contains all three macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins) as well as essential vitamins and minerals. It is also a source of immunoglobulins and antimicrobial substances.

Lactose is the most important carbohydrate for cattle, accounting for 2-3% of its content (however, lactose is often removed from supplement forms). Beef jerky is also 6-7% fat and 14-16% protein, which includes both casein and albumin.

Trace elements and other biologically active substances found in cattle include:

Lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase and lysozyme are three types of proteins that have antimicrobial properties. It is believed that these three biologically active substances are necessary for the immunity of the newborn baby. These antimicrobial properties may also support the immune system of adults using cattle supplements.

Possible use of cattle

Use of the supplement should be individualized and under the supervision of a healthcare professional such as a nutritionist, pharmacist, or other registered health professional. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

Cattle research has expanded over the years. Researchers have found that beef supplements may have some health benefits, but more research is needed.

May support immunity

Several studies have focused on the use of cattle to support immunity in athletes, the elderly, infants and the general population.

Antimicrobials found in cattle are thought to be responsible for their potential effects on the immune system. Although animal studies have shown promising results, researchers are still unsure whether cattle improve immunity in humans.

Athletes who engage in intense or prolonged training often have reduced immune defenses. In a small study, 27 young female basketball players (ages 16 to 19) were given 6.4 grams of beef or a placebo (an ineffective drug given to control groups) daily for 24 weeks.

After assessing various biomarkers and immune system parameters, the scientists found that cattle had a positive but small effect on the participants' immunity.

In another small study, preschool children were given a placebo or beef for 45 days. Scientists have noticed an increase in immunity in children who consumed cattle. Over a period of more than 20 weeks, children receiving the bovine drug had fewer upper respiratory tract infections than children receiving a placebo.

Many researchers believe that further well-designed studies are needed to show that beef improves immunity in both healthy and sick people.

It may help treat infections

Some research suggests that cattle may help prevent and treat viral and bacterial infections.

One study concluded that adding beef to breast milk increases its antibacterial properties. In particular, beef was found to improve antibacterial activity against two strains of bacteria: Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) and Staphylococcus epidermidis ( S. epidermidis ), which can be especially harmful to premature babies.

The BEES meta-analysis examined studies in children with infectious diarrhea. The results of five studies analyzed showed that cattle are an effective treatment for infectious diarrhea caused by rotavirus and E. coli .

Compared to a placebo, children who used the stool had fewer stools and fewer viruses or bacteria that cause diarrhea.

Another beef jerky review focuses on upper respiratory tract infections. Most of the studies included in the review found that cattle supplements reduced the incidence of these types of infections. The cattle dose used in studies varied widely, up to 60 g per day, with most studies using a dose of at least 10 g.

It may improve digestive health

More than half of your immune system is located in your gut. There is evidence that cattle can support healthy digestion and treat various gastrointestinal disorders through immunomodulation (immune regulation).

A systematic review found that beef may improve intestinal permeability in athletes, leading to better absorption of nutrients from food. Beef also reduces gut inflammation after exercise, according to researchers.

Some studies also show beneficial effects of cattle on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), necrotizing enterocolitis , intestinal failure, diarrhea, and other intestinal disorders in both humans and animals. Supplementation with bovine colostrum is associated with reduced inflammation in many of these diseases. However, research remains controversial, with some studies showing the effects of beef in treating digestive disorders.

Overall, cattle show promise as a potential treatment for digestive diseases, but more research is needed.

Security measures

Bovine colostrum supplements are generally considered safe, but they may cause mostly mild side effects in some people.

Most studies using cattle reported little or no side effects. The most commonly reported side effects in available studies in cattle include:

Side effects usually disappear after a few days of use in cattle. However, if side effects persist or worsen, it is best to stop using it and consult a doctor.

Besides the risk of side effects, some people may want to avoid consuming cattle altogether.

Cattle contain lactose. Although some supplements are lactose-free, many beef supplements are not suitable for people with lactose intolerance. People with milk allergies should also avoid cow's milk.

Since beef feed comes directly from cows, these supplements are not suitable for a vegan diet.

It is not known what dose (if any) of beef is safe for breastfeeding or pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding or expecting a baby, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before consuming beef.

Talk to your doctor before trying beef to make sure it's a safe option for you.

Dosage:

Explainer

Always consult a physician before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage meet your individual needs.

There are currently no dosage recommendations for cattle.

The average dose of bovine colostrum supplements for adults ranges from 500 milligrams (mg) to 1,000 mg (equal to 1 g) per day.

However, several studies have safely used daily doses of up to 60 g in cattle. Other studies have shown positive results with beef supplementation at doses of 10-20 g per day. Some studies also support lower doses of 500 mg per day.

As you can see, cattle can be used in a wide variety of safe and effective doses. More research is needed to determine general dosage recommendations for these supplements.

We recommend following the dosage instructions on the supplement label or packaging. If you are unsure how much cattle you should take, talk to a qualified health professional.

Sources and what to look for

You can use cattle feed or supplements. However, it is most often used as a supplement for medicinal purposes.

Food Sources of Bovine Colostrum

You can use fresh liquid beef. However, finding fresh cow dung in stores or on websites can be difficult. Additionally, unpasteurized cattle feed may contain potentially harmful pathogens.

After pasteurization, whey is sometimes added to some dairy products (yogurt, cheese, or kefir ) and infant formulas. Research continues to find safe ways to include beef in the diet.

Bovine Colostrum Supplements

Cattle supplements are usually easier to find than feed. You can find these supplements online, at specialty supplement stores, or grocery stores. Some grocery and retail stores also sell beef supplements.

Beef trimmings are often dried and ground into powder, which can then be used to make supplements. You can use cattle feed additives in the form of powder or capsules, tablets or capsules. Liquid supplements are also available.

It is important to ensure that the supplement you choose fits safely into your diet.

Many bovine colostrum supplements contain lactose, although some brands are lactose-free or lactose-reduced. Bovine colostrum supplements are also not vegan. However, beef supplements are generally gluten-free.

When purchasing beef jerky, remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or any other US government agency does not strictly regulate dietary supplements.

The FDA never confirms the effectiveness or quality of supplements. However, the FDA can remove dangerous additives from the market.

For peace of mind, look for supplements that are approved by third-party agencies such as USP, NSF.org, or ConsumerLab.com. These and other qualified agencies test supplements for contaminants and ensure nutrition labels are accurate.

However, keep in mind that independent testing does not mean a supplement is safe for everyone. Always check with your doctor before using a new supplement to make sure it's right for you.

Summary:

Cow colostrum is the first milk produced by the cow's mammary glands immediately after birth. Other mammals, including humans, also produce colostrum as it is an important part of a baby's nutrition.

Beef jerky may provide health and nutritional benefits when used as a supplement. It is thought to primarily support the immune system and treat some gastrointestinal disorders, but more research is needed.

Talk to your doctor to learn more about cornstarch and see if it's right for you.

FAQ:

Is it safe to handle cattle daily?

Cattle are generally considered safe for most people. However, it is unknown whether beef is safe for long-term consumption. Additionally, there are no established dosage recommendations for cattle, and dosages vary widely.

In one study, young female athletes took a cowhide supplement daily for 24 weeks without any side effects.

Further research into the long-term safety of cattle is needed.

Who Shouldn't Adopt Cattle?

People with dairy allergies should not take pork colostrum. People with lactose intolerance should also avoid sugar from cow's milk unless the supplement states that it is lactose-free.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to avoid cow's milk.

Consult a physician before using Beeste if you have any medical condition or are taking prescription medications.

Is colostrum harmful to the liver?

There is no concrete evidence that colostrum is harmful to the liver. In fact, some studies suggest that colostrum is a potential liver protector.

A previous study from 2012 found that beef reduced liver damage in mice. However, these results have not been replicated in humans, so more research is needed.

Does cow's colostrum contain estrogen?

Cow's colostrum is a source of several hormones, including estrogen.

Estrogen contained in bovine colostrum is not absorbed in the intestines of most adults. This means that estrogen levels in cattle are generally low.

To be safe, people with certain medical conditions that may be affected by estrogen should consult their doctor about using bovine colostrum.

Read the original article on Verywell Health.

Benefits of Colostrum