
PuraLife Colostrum®
Pure Bovine Colostrum Powder
Small Jar, high quality!
PuraLife is proud of offering great pure bovine colostrum under PuraLife Colostrum® brand which collected, dried and packed in USA. PuraLife has been a leading marketer of premium American Colostrum and a pioneer in promoting the health benefits of colostrum since quite good time. PuraLife will continue to develop innovative products for both domestic and international markets that improve health and wellbeing. We also have brand cooperation with BioLife Health Care to launch PuraLife Colostrum® into Middle East. www.biolifehealth.com
Colostrum is the pre-milk substance produced from all mammals at birth. True bovine Colostrum is the pre-milk in the udder when the calf is born. Each drop of Colostrum contains the promise of life for the newborn. Colostrum is nature's perfect first food. It supplies immune and growth factors along with a perfect combination of vitamins and minerals to ensure the health, vitality, and growth of the newborn. Colostrum has applications for every generation and it is never too late to start gaining the benefits of life's precious first food.
It is estimated that Colostrum triggers at least fifty processes in the newborn, including transferring the immune factors and the memory from the mother's own immune system. Bovine Colostrum balances the immune system and is a natural source of many vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids. Supplementation of Colostrum enhances the efficiency of amino acid and carbohydrate fuel uptake by the intestine, making more nutrients are made available for muscle cells and other vital tissues and organs. It is rich in protective and regulating factors necessary to promote health and vitality. It is nature’s most concentrated source of biologically active components. It has existed since the first mammals roamed the planet and used by humans of various cultures for thousands of years.
Why PuraLife Colostrum® is so distinctive?
- Contains 100% pure USA bovine colostrum
- Sourced from pasture fed cows free of BSE, antibiotics
- Wide range of immune benefits
- Rich in growth & repair factors
- Good solubility with new physical agglomeration technology
PuraLife Colostrum® Powder is a premium Colostrum sourced from pasture fed dairy cows in USA. Colostrum is a nutritious source of beneficial immunity factors, particularly Immunoglobulin G (IgG). It is the most abundant type of antibody, which is found in all body fluids and protects against both bacterial and viral infections. IgG is also the only type of antibody that can cross the placenta in a pregnant woman and provide protection for her baby (fetus).
PuraLife Colostrum® adds back the powerful, natural antibodies and immune factors that promote healthy immune system function, which play a key role in our everyday health:
- Boosts strength, stamina and lean muscle mass production
- Promotes healthy intestinal flora and supports the digestive systems
- Encourages cellular growth for healthy skin, bones, muscles, nerves and cartilage
Suitable for children through to the elderly and is ideal for supporting general wellbeing or for those who require extra immunity or digestive assistance.
NOTE: Please consult your health professional before consuming this product.
Cows are an ideal source of colostrum for three basic reasons:
- Nutritional, management and health improvements of dairy cows have led to greater colostrum production during the past 100 years. The calf’s needs are always fulfilled first. Only surplus colostrum can be humanely harvested for other purposes.
- In many regards, bovine colostrum is more potent than human colostrum. Newborn human infants have more competent immune function due to placental transfer of antibodies and various proteins/peptides which do not occur in ruminants (mammals with four chambered stomachs such as cows, goats and sheep). Because of this, these factors are concentrated and retained in the bovine colostrum for feeding to the calf immediately after birth.
- The biologically active components are either identical or functionally identical regardless of the species of origin or use.
Package & Suggested Use
PuraLife Colostrum

Bottle net weight 6.3oz (178.6gm)
Ingredients:
Bovine Colostrum Powder (20%IgG)
Suggested use:
- Children:
Mix 1 scoop (3g) with 4 fl oz (120ml) of cold water or your favorite cold drink. Take on empty stomach or as directed by the health care provider. - Adults:
Mix 3 scoops (9g) with 4 fl oz (120ml) of cold water of your favorite cold drink. Take on empty stomach or as directed by the health care provider. Consult your health care provider if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, are taking medications or have health condition.
Close tightly and store in a cool dry place (below 75°F), away from heat.
Components
Thymosin (alpha & beta chains). A hormone composed of two protein-based chains that are separately present in bovine colostrum. The chains act on the thymus gland independently or in concert with each other to stimulate activation, development and maintenance of the immune system.
Proline-rich peptide (PRP). A hormone-like small protein that acts upon the thymus and other organs associated with the immune system to keep it from over-reacting to an insult.
Cytokines. Small proteins produced by various cells in the body that induce the generation of specialized types of white blood cells, signal them to come to the site of an insult and help in their passage through tissues.
Lymphokines. Proteins of varying sizes that are produced by different types of white blood cells that tell related cells to transform themselves into more functional cell types that can release substances capable of destroying an invading microorganism. Gut Protective Substances
Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, IgA). Complex proteins, better known as antibodies, that make up a significant portion of the proteins found in complete first milking colostrum. These antibodies were produced by the mother’s immune system in response to her exposure to many different microorganisms during her lifetime and then transferred into the colostrum prior to birth of the calf. These antibodies offer protection against bacteria, viruses and fungi that infect the gastrointestinal tract of humans.
Transfer factors. Small proteins produced in response to the body’s exposure to certain types of microorganisms, particularly those that reside in deep tissues for a long period of time, like the bacterium that causes tuberculosis. They are specific for a particular microorganism and are carried inside of certain types of specialized white blood cells. Transfer factors have limited effectiveness alone in defending the body against infection by such microorganisms, but, rather, act in concert with various white blood cells and other factors in an attempt to keep the microorganisms under control.
Lactoferrin. A mineral-binding carrier protein that attaches to available iron. Certain aerobic (grow in the presence of oxygen) bacteria, like E. coli, require iron to reproduce and, therefore, lactoferrin is an effective substance, when operating in the presence of a specific antibody, to impede the growth of some microorganisms in the gut. A broad number of additional claims have been made by some providers of colostrum for human consumption regarding the application of lactoferrin as an immuno-regulating substance with antiviral, antibacterial and anti-tumor properties. To date, none of these claims have been adequately substantiated through properly controlled studies.
Transferrin. Another mineral-binding carrier protein that attaches to available iron and can act independently or in concert with lactoferrin to impede the growth of certain aerobic bacteria, particularly in the gut.
Lysozyme. A very powerful enzyme that is capable of attaching itself to the cell wall of certain pathogenic bacteria and degrading select components, leaving holes in the wall of the bacteria.
Lactoperoxidase. A mildly effective enzyme that can also attach to the wall of certain bacteria, degrade selected proteins and interfere with the ability of the bacteria to replicate themselves.
Xanthine Oxidase. Another mildly effective enzyme that can also attach to the wall of certain bacteria, degrade different proteins than those affected by lactoperoxidase and, therefore, also interfere with the ability of the bacteria to replicate themselves.
White blood cells (leukocytes). Primarily, three types of functional white blood cells are present in colostrum, including neutrophils, macrophages and polymorphonuclear cells. Each has the ability to phagocytize (engulf) microorganisms and other foreign bodies and apply substances carried internally to the destruction of the microorganisms. Their functions are dramatically enhanced when antibodies first attach to the microorganisms.
Oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates. Complex carbohydrates (sugars) that can adhere to specific sites on the inner surface of the gastrointestinal tract and prevent the attachment of microorganisms.
The Growth Factors
Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs). Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and its closely related counterpart insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2) are potent hormones that are found in association with almost all cells in the body. They are part of a group of more than 90 different proteins, called the “IGF Binding Protein (IGFBP) Superfamily”, that is responsible for the processes by which cells grow and reproduce. These substances are also responsible for maintenance of the metabolic pathways in the body by which cells convert glucose to glycogen, a primary energy resource, and use amino acids to create proteins. The key event that triggers the functions of the various proteins in the IGFBP Superfamily is the attachment of IGF-1 to a specific site on the surface of a cell. Many
of the growth factors found in colostrum and previously defined by their functions are now considered part of the IGFBP Superfamily.
This includes the following substances, among others.
- Transforming growth factors A & B. Induces the transformation of cells from an immature form to a mature, functional status.
- Epithelial growth factor. Involved in the generation and maintenance of cells in the epithelial (outer) layers of the skin.
- Fibroblast growth factor. Associated with the regeneration of various types of tissue, including skin and other organs.
- Platelet-derived growth factor. Responsible for the generation of cells and functions associated with blood clotting.
The Metabolic Factors
Leptin. A small hormone-like protein that can suppress appetite and lead to body weight reduction. Mature fat cells (adipocytes) release leptin in the presence of insulin, which is also found in colostrum. Insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells have binding sites for leptin and it is believed that the size of fat cells may be a major factor in determining the amount of leptin released. Therefore, leptin deficiency may be associated with obesity, particularly in diabetic individuals.
Insulin. A hormone required for the effective utilization of glucose (blood sugar) in the body. Insulin binds to specific sites on cells, facilitating their interaction with IGF-1 and, thus, initiating the conversion of glucose to glycogen, a high energy source carbohydrate.
Vitamin-binding proteins. Smaller proteins that act as carriers to deliver B-complex vitamins to the body. Carrier proteins and the associated vitamins folate (B6), B12 and orotic acid are found in colostrum.
Fat-associated vitamins. Significant quantities of vitamins A, D, E and K are dissolved in or associated with the fat in colostrum.
Mineral-binding proteins. The iron-binding proteins, lactoferrin and transferrin, have already been discussed above. In addition to interfering with the replication of certain microorganisms, they also serve to capture iron from the ingested food and present it in a form that can readily be absorbed by the body. Lactoferrin can also bind copper and deliver it in a form suitable for absorption by the body. In addition, there are two carrier proteins in colostrum that assist in the absorption of calcium. They are casein, which is also an abundant source of amino acids to build new protein molecules, and alpha-lactalbumin, which is present in colostrum very soon after birth.
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). A phosphorylated nucleotide in a very specialized form that transfers the chemical energy necessary to drive metabolic reactions to form new protein, carbohydrate and fat molecules.
Enzyme inhibitors. These small proteins slow down or inhibit the breakdown of proteins by certain enzymes. They provide limited protection to the immune, growth and metabolic factors as they pass through the digestive tract.
There are many other substances present in colostrum, but some are not well understood. However, there are at least two substances in addition to those described above that do have understood function. They are the hormone melatonin, which has a direct effect on the establishment of biological rhythms and proper sleep patterns; and relaxin, a hormone known to directly affect contracted muscles.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Colostrum is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Superiority
What make
PuraLife ColostrumSuperior to other Colostrum products
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First Milking Colostrum
First milking Colostrum is the milk in the udder when the calf is born. It is the richest in the important bioactive components and is collected within 16 hours from birth. Unfortunately, much of the Colostrum available today is from the third and fourth day after birth.
In order to kick off the calf's immune system, it is vital for the new born calf to consume this first milking Colostrum. Each cow produces about 18 liters of first milking Colostrum at the time the calf is born. About half gallon is fed to the calf within the first half hour after birth. About three hours later, the calf is given a boost of another half a gallon. Then the remaining 14 liters are collected during a period of up to 16 hours after birth of the calf.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage: PuraLife accepts only the first milking Colostrum after the calf gets all it needs. Definitely special tests and real inspections are applied to assure the Colostrum is only from the first milking and is free of antibiotics, harmful bacteria, and other contaminants.
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Careful Low-Heat & Low-Pressure Processing
Colostrum must be carefully processed using low-heat and low-pressure processes or the delicate and important colostral proteins can be denatured and the efficacy of the Colostrum destroyed.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage:
The technology of flash pasteurization and a proprietary indirect steam drying process are applied to preserve maximum bioactivity and a three year shelf life — the longest in the industry.
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Low-Heat Pasteurization
The high-heat pasteurization and drying processes used by many producers of Colostrum powders can denature the sensitive PRPs and IgG proteins in Colostrum. The used technology for pasteurization is only low-heat flash pasteurization and low-heat indirect drying to preserve the efficacy and bioactivity of the Colostrum. Meanwhile using flash pasteurization (161º F or 72º C for 15 seconds) all potentially harmful pathogens are removed, while immunoglobulins and other biologically important proteins retain their bioactivity.
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Low-Pressure Processing
Similar to high-heat processing, high-pressure processing of Colostrum will denature proteins and reduce the bioactivity of the finished product. Our Colostrum powders are consistently processed at lower pressures (often less than 10% of those used by other manufacturers).
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Indirect Steam Drying
Our Colostrum is spray dried using indirect steam and with low pressure and temperatures (less than 145°F or 63º C) to produce a high quality powder while protecting the colostral proteins.
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High Level of Proline-Rich Polypeptides (PRPs)
Proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs) are the most important immune factor in Colostrum because they offer more general immune balancing than immunoglobulins.
Unfortunately, many Colostrum processors today use filtration processes which remove much of the important PRP content.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage: Through the use of proprietary processes the highest level of PRPs in our Colostrum can be guaranteed.
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Tight Quality Assurance
Quality processes at Colostrum manufacturers are very important to assure the efficacy of Colostrum is preserved and food safety issues are prevented.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage: Throughout the whole process quality assurance measures and tests are performed with the best-equipped quality assurance laboratory and certified Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) in the industry.
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Quality Assurance
The manufacturing facilities are Certified Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) facilities. There are over 300 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that control all aspects of the production process. Every step of manufacturing, material handling, finished goods release, line clearance, employee training and certified Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) are documented.
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Highest Quality and Testing
Our Colostrum is only collected from USDA Grade A dairies. Raw Colostrum from each dairy undergoes a testing protocol to assure it is from the first milking, free of antibiotics, pesticides and other testing parameters including Pasteurization Milk Ordinance (PMO) requirements. Each product batch is analyzed prior to shipment to assure its quality, efficacy, and safety. In order to ensure consistent high quality in every batch, analysis is also conducted during each step of the production process using equipment such as in-house High-Performance Liquid Chromatography units.
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Dedicated Flexible Facility
The manufacturing facilities are exclusively dedicated for the production of high-grade Colostrum powders, which prevents the risk of cross-contamination from non-Colostrum products during the manufacturing process. It has in-house technology for instantization, and agglomeration of Colostrum powders. Non-GMO phospholipids are used to instantize Colostrum powders. Granulation and agglomeration ensures consistent particle size and allows the Colostrum to more readily dissolve in liquids, which makes it more appropriate for mixing into infant milk formulas, milk products, beverages, ice cream, or cosmetics.
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Free Flowing Powder
Colostrum can be insoluble and clumpy. Agglomerating and instantizing solves this problem and enables consumers to more easily use Colostrum in drink mixes.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage: The manufacturing process includes applying agglomeration and instantizing technologies to the Colostrum powders. As a result, the powders become the most soluble and flowable available.
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Appropriate Protein Level
The protein content of the dry matter in natural first milking whole Colostrum is about 50%. Once the fat is taken out, the protein content goes to 60–65%. This is the perfect protein content for maximum total efficacy in skim Colostrum powder. Colostrum with a protein level higher than 60–65% has been concentrated using ultrafiltration, which unfortunately removes the very important PRPs and concentrates the protein levels to 80%.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage: With producing a standard 25% IgG skim Colostrum powder without using filtration. The protein content in this product is about 64% and it has a high level of PRPs (4–4.5%).
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Year-Round Processing
In most of the world, including the northern United States, New Zealand, and Northern Europe, calving occurs primarily in the spring due to the weather cycle.
PuraLife Colostrum advantage:
Our Colostrum is collected from the Southwest of the United States which has the largest concentration of dairy cows in the world. Calving occurs year-round in this area because of the temperate climate. This enables us to get fresh Colostrum all year. In many regions around the world (including New Zealand, Northern Europe, and Northern United States) most calving occurs in spring because of the cycle of the seasons. As a result, Colostrum products produced in these regions are manufactured only during spring. Colostrum products from these regions are often not fresh — indeed, depending on the time of year, Colostrum products from these manufacturers can be as much as a year old. And manufacturers in these regions often cannot respond to varying customer requirements during the year.
Benefits
What are the benefits of consuming colostrum?
Colostrum has been reported to have many health benefits to the human body. Below is a list of health benefits commonly reported in the literature. Click on any health issue to find out more.
Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammatory conditions are a major source of pain, including arthritis, colitis and other similar conditions. Colostrum has anti-inflammatory activity which can reduce inflammation, thus helping reduce the pain due to these conditions.
- Colostrum has anti-inflammatory activity.
- Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) receptors in colostrum bind TNF-α, a cytokine which controls the inflammatory cytokine cascade, effectively turning off inflammation at its source.
- Colostrum also contains interleukin-1ra (IL-1ra), the IL-1 receptor protein, which also acts to inactivate the inflammatory activity of IL-1.
- Colostrum has been shown to be beneficial to chronic inflammatory diseases, such as various forms of arthritis and Crohn’s disease, which have been linked to gut inflammation.
- Lactoferrin has strong antioxidant characteristics which take place by two separate mechanisms: binding catalytic iron generated during cell destruction; and binding bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) which causes a decrease in LPS bioactivity, such as increasing neutrophil O2 production.
- Lactoferrin also inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines.
- Proline rich peptides (PRP) also acts as an oxidative stress regulator.
Allergy Relief
Allergies in humans are the result of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) production by the body in response to a foreign protein to which the body has become sensitized.
- Colostrum can help desensitize the body to allergens by helping to suppress IgE expression.
- Colostrum contains antibodies against allergens of clinical importance to humans Colostrum contains IgE binding factors which suppress IgE expression (IgE is the immunoglobulin involved in allergic reactions) and act to prevent or inhibit allergic reactions.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Disorders
As the number of senior citizens increases with improved health care and longer life expectancy, the effects of Alzheimer’s disease will continue to take a toll on our health system and our senior citizens. Colostrum contains components which have been shown to benefit those suffering from this debilitating condition.
- Of 15 Alzheimer’s patients receiving PRP in a clinical trial, 8 showed clinical improvement and the rest stabilized, whereas of those receiving selenium or a placebo, none showed improvement.
- Phosphatidylserine, has been shown to be of benefit when given to patients suffering from Alzheimer’s or senile dementia.
Antioxidants and Anti-aging
Are antioxidants the fountain of youth? That question remains debatable, but it is known that oxidative stress and high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), by-products of normal metabolism which build up in the body, can cause widespread damage and increase the aging process. Colostrum contains antioxidants and the precursors to glutathione (the most powerful antioxidant known) which help clean up these pollutants from the body and reverse the damage they do to the body.
- Oxidation by-products of metabolism cause extensive damage to DNA, proteins and lipids, which ultimately results in aging, cancer and other degenerative diseases.
- Chronic oxidative stress can accelerate cell senescence in human endothelial cells.
- Colostrum is rich in antioxidants, including glutathione, the most powerful antioxidant known, and its precursors.
- Colostrum reduces ferricytochrome C and suppresses myeloperoxidase and lysozyme activity in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), activities which are important in the mediation of acute inflammatio.
- PRP turns down lipid peroxidation, reducing the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells.
- Lactoferrin acts as an antioxidant in the gut.
Arthritis
There are numerous forms of arthritis, from osteoarthritis to autoimmune rheumatoid arthritis which arise from many different causes. The common denominator between all the different forms of arthritis, however, is an inflammation of the joints which causes extreme pain and deformation of the joint structure. Colostrum is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound which can significantly benefit arthritis sufferers, and it can help heal inflammation of the gut which has been linked to some forms of arthritis.
- Some forms of arthritis and arthritic conditions have been linked to increased intestinal permeability, which colostrum helps heal.
- Colostrum or its components have been used to treat forms of arthritis which manifest an inflamed gut.
Asthma
Colostrum has been shown to help asthma sufferers as it tones down the allergic response which brings on the asthma attacks.
- Lactoferrin inhibits tryptase, an enzyme secreted by mast cells and implicated as a potential causative agent of asthma, and when given to allergic sheep which serve as an animal model of asthma, abolished late-phase bronchoconstriction.
Athletic Performance
- Colostrum is well-known in the athletic community as a means to increase lean body mass without the dangerous side effects found in steroids. It also helps keep the athlete healthy by accelerating the healing of athletic injuries and boosting the immune system, which becomes depressed after extreme exercise.
- Colostrum supplementation produces a significant increase in lean body mass compared to whey.
- Colostrum supplementation increases anaerobic power, performance time, and sprint performance when compared to whey.
- Athletes have increased susceptibility to infectious diseases following strenuous exercise, and colostrum boosts immunity, helps heal leaky gut syndrome and decreases recovery time in athletes.
- Marathon runners, who experience a significantly higher incidence or upper respiratory tract infections (URI) in the weeks leading up to and following a marathon, had a much lower rate of URI when receiving colostrum supplementation as compared to placebo.
- Marathon runners, who experience a significantly higher incidence or upper respiratory tract infections (URI) in the weeks leading up to and following a marathon, had a much lower rate of URI when receiving colostrum supplementation as compared to placebo.
- When given colostrum, serum IGF-1 levels increase even though the ingested IGF-1 in colostrum is not absorbed and supplementation with colostrum does not produce positive results for IGF-1 in drug tests.
- IGF-1 when taken in its natural form is not banned by the International Olympic Committee, whereas synthetic forms are. Colostrum is a natural source of IGF-1.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are the result of an overactive immune system which begins to produce antibodies to the body’s own proteins. PRP, a unique substance found only in colostrum, has the ability to tone down the overactive immune system to normal levels. Colostrum also contains components which can alleviate the symptoms found in various autoimmune disorders, particularly those with inflammation of some body organ.
Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease respond to the anti-inflammatory components of colostrum.
- PRP has therapeutic value in treating autoimmune diseases through its immunomodulatory effects and may be able to stimulate the formation of specific suppressor cells which inhibit the development of these diseases.
- A clinical study showed that patients with multiple sclerosis who received anti-measles bovine colostrum showed significant improvement in their condition versus those who received non-anti-measles colostrum.
Cancer
Animal studies have been suggestive that lactoferrin, one of the principal proteins found in colostrum, may help prevent or shrink cancers. Colostrum also contains milk fats which have been shown to be anticarcinogenic.
- Lactoferrin prevents colon, bladder, tongue, esophagus and lung cancers and lung metastasis in animal models. The underlying mechanisms are under study but appear to be related to lactoferrin’s ability to boost immune system function.
- Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and other fats found in colostrum and milk have also been shown to anticarcinogenic properties.
Detoxification
Traditionally, what detoxification means to most people is taking a powerful herbal concoction which causes the body to dump fluids, thus flushing the system of impurities and toxins. From the point of view of colostrum, however, this is a limited and potentially dangerous concept of detoxification that puts unneeded stress on the body and can do more harm than good. Colostrum detoxifies the body beginning in the gastrointestinal tract in a much healthier and efficacious manner. Colostrum inhibits or destroys harmful pathogens which can colonize the gut and cause major health problems, such as Helicobacter pylori, the main cause of gastric and duodenal ulcers, Candida albicans, a fungus which can overgrow the intestines, forcing out beneficial bacteria, and many others, while promoting the growth of beneficial bacterial colonies. Colostrum also acts to heal the damage to the intestinal lining caused by the pathogens and toxins which can accumulate there. This prevents pathogens and toxins from entering the body and restores normal gut functioning. Colostrum also helps protect and heal both the liver and the pancreas from the effects of toxins in the body by helping to remove dangerous toxins and by stimulating these organs to replace damaged tissue.
- Colostrum kills H. pylori, a major cause of gastritis and ulcers.
- Bovine colostrum eradicates many dangerous pathogens from the bowel and heals intestinal erosions and ulcerations.
- Colostrum protects the gut from infection as IgA within the colostrum protects mucosal lining.
- Lactoferrin inhibits the growth of Candida albicans and harmful bacteria.
- Supplementation with colostrum can protect the liver from the toxic effects of hepatitis, cirrhosis, toxic liver cell damage, fibrosis of the liver, inflammation of the liver, fatty liver, and other liver diseases by removing excess toxic protein metabolites, such as ammonia, formed from the breakdown of liver cells, enabling the liver to improve its ability to detoxify these substances on its own. In addition, colostrum supplementation helps prevent portal hypertension, which can have drastic neurological effects.
- IGF-1 and IGF-II, both found in colostrum, can be given orally to prevent and treat pancreatic disorders as well as to promote pancreatic growth in cases of pancreatic insufficiency, cystic fibrosis or partial removal of the pancreas.
Diabetes
IGF-1, a growth factor which closely resembles insulin, has been shown to help prevent diabetes in those susceptible to developing it. IGF-1 is present in colostrum in large quantities.
- Autoimmune diabetes (type I diabetes) has been linked to leaky gut and an overactive gut immune system.
- IGF-1 stimulates glucose transport in skeletal muscle but not in obesity or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).
- IGF-1 delays the clinical onset of diabetes, reduces the occurrence of beta cell destruction, and reduces the likelihood of the occurrence of clinical diabetes when administered to those at risk of developing type I diabetes. Combining the IGF-1 with IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) has been found to be even more effective.
- Diabetic autonomic neuropathy, a condition found in diabetics in which nerve cells of the autonomic nervous system die, may be ameliorated by IGF-1, which has a neuroprotective effect that prevents damage to neurons from the high glucose levels in the blood that are associated with poorly controlled diabetes.
Heart Health
An increasingly large body of evidence shows that dairy products in general, and colostrum in particular, are excellent heart health foods, particularly for those with high blood pressure.
- Insulin and IGF-I (both found in colostrum) relax coronary arteries, which decreases the blood pressure in the coronary arteries.
- Proteins and peptides as well as other substances found in colostrum and milk help lower blood pressure, especially when consumed with a low-fat, high fruit and vegetable diet.
Pain Management
Chronic, severe pain which cannot be related to any specific injury or disease process in the body is becoming increasingly common, and the management of such pain has proven elusive. Good results, however, have been gained by using immunoglobulin concentrated from bovine colostrum and given intravenously, though the exact mechanism of why this treatment works is as yet unknown.
- Immunoglobulins pooled from bovine colostrum have been used intravenously for the treatment of chronic pain without anatomical correlate.
Skin Health and Wound Healing
Colostrum is a natural for good skin health. It contains all that is needed to maintain healthy skin and reduce wrinkles. It helps maintain skin health both from the inside, by healing leaky gut syndrome and through its antioxidant effect, and externally by healing skin inflammation and stimulating cell growth.
- Colostrum helps heal leaky gut syndrome, an abnormal condition which allows unwanted pathogens and toxins into the body, which then may cause skin eruptions as the body attempts to remove them.
- Lactoferrin’s role as an antioxidant helps clean up free radicals which can cause skin aging changes.
- Lactoferrin applied topically can inhibit local inflammatory responses in the skin by regulating the expression of TNF-α.
- Growth factors found in colostrum, such as epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), help maintain healthy skin by replacing damaged tissue and can accelerate wound healing, while a lack of IGF-1 retards wound healing.
- Skin becomes thin with aging due to a reduction in growth factors with age; IGF-1 supplementation can help restore skin thickness.
- Ceramide, the predominant lipid in the skin and a metabolite of sphingomyelin, one of the phospholipids found in colostrum and BIO-lipid, is important for both water retention and permeability barrier function; decreased levels of ceramide are associated with dermatitis and dry skin conditions.
- Sphingosines, which are also metabolites of sphingomyelin, also are important in maintaining the barrier function of the skin against pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, and can even be used as topical antiseptics.
How it works?
How does colostrum work to boost my immunity?
Colostrum is the only natural product to contain active immune factors such as antibodies. Antibodies are a key part of the immune system, which is a system of biological structures and processes that works to protect against disease and eliminate pathogens. Antibodies are crucial to the body's natural defensive system secreted from the immune cells called B-cells. Other immune cells of the immune system include T-cells, natural killer cells, plasma cells, stem cells and a range of chemical messengers that help recognise and destroy disease causing agents.
When we get sick, usually an infection by bacteria or virus, specialised immune cells recognise them from the body and target them for elimination. The invaders are recognised by features on their cell surface called antigens - which are markers on the cell surface indicating they're "invaders". Chemical messengers and other immune cells sends a message to B-cells and Plasma cells about the invasion and these cells start producing antigen-specific antibodies to eliminate bacteria or virus from the body.
The active antibodies are Y shaped proteins called immunoglobulins, there are various classes of immunoglobulins such as immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgA, IgM IgE and IgD. Each have a slightly different immune function in the body. IgG is the predominant antibody that provides the majority of antibody-based immunity against invading pathogens. Antibodies work through tailored sticky ends which bind to the antigens on the invading pathogen. This binding prevents pathogens from attacking body cells and essentially inactivating their invasion. Most pathogens enter the body through the mouth and the gut. By providing active antibodies through ingestion, protection against bacteria and virus can be achieved.
There are many factors in our daily lives that can affect the immune system in a negative way. Factors such as stress, poor diet, illness, antibiotics, age, exercise, and even genetics can alter balance of our immune system and result in lowered immunity which in turn increases illness.
What are the immune factors in colostrum?
Colostrum is the pre-milk produced by all humans and mammals. It contains a myriad of immune supporting factors, as colostrum is produced in all mammals, it is vital to the health of new-borns for a mother to breast feed to pass on important immune factors through their colostrum.
The primary immune factors in colostrum are antibodies called immunoglobulins, these come in various forms (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE and IgD) each with a specific role. Immunoglobulings are the major components of the adaptive (specific) immune system. Colostrum also contains other important immune components which are part of the innate (non-specific) immune system. These components include:
- Lactoferrin: Antimicrobial protein which provides antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity to infants.
- Lysozyme: Damages bacterial walls through hydrolysis.
- Lactoperoxidase: Natural antibacterial agent.
- Complement protein system: Variety of proteins that helps antibodies to clear pathogens.
- Proline rich peptides (PRP): Chain of amino acids that stimulate and modulate the immune response. PRP's acts as a signal molecule to immune cells of the body.
- Cytokines: A range of messenger peptides that control the functioning of the immune system.
It should be noted that apart from immune factors colostrum is also rich in growth factors including epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin like growth factor (IGF-1, IGF-2), transforming growth factor (TGF β1, TGF β2), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and others. These growth factors aids natural growth and development and also aid recovery post illness or injuries.
What are the four main health benefits of colostrum?
In Colostrum Function and Industrial Standards published by China Dairy Industry Association, four main health functions of colostrum were identified. These are:
- Immune system modulationIn addition to boosting the body's natural defenses when the immune system is down, sometimes the immune system can be over stimulated. Over stimulation leads to a “hyper” immune response, and could cause arthritis, asthma, gastroenteritis, and inflammations. Colostrum, can modulate the immune function back to normal levels.Therefore, bovine colostrum has immune modulation effects rather than unilaterally increase immunity.
- Gastrointestinal function improvementColostrum detoxifies the body starting with the gastrointestinal tract. The immune factors in colostrum inhibits or destroys harmful pathogens which can colonize the gut and cause major health problems such as Helicobacter pylori, Candida albicans, and many others, while promoting the growth of beneficial bacterial colonies. Colostrum also acts to heal the damage to the intestinal lining caused by the pathogens and toxins which can accumulate there. This prevents pathogens and toxins from entering the body and restores normal gut functioning.
- Growth stimulationColostrum contains rich dairy proteins, vitamins and minerals, and a range of growth factors (such as EGF, TFG, Insulin-like GF) to promote bone density, and help with general growth and development. This effect is especially prominent in children taking colostrum supplements.
- Anti-aging effectsColostrum can help delay the effects of declining organ function as a result of the aging process. After the age of 65, the production of immunoglobulins are dramatically reduced, lowing levels to from 50-70%. Colostrum can replenish some of this loss and the growth factors help slow aging through the promotion of cellular growth.
Does the immune factors still work after passing through the stomach?
As the immune factors which support the immune function are primarily made from proteins, passing through the digestive system generally results in degradation of some of these immune factors.
However, previously published studies on whether the immune factors (primarily immunoglobulin G) are digested or broken down in the stomach affecting efficacy have shown a average of 25% igG recovery following digestion. No studies have reported 100% loss of IgG. What is interesting is that a study by Le Franc-Millot et al. 1995 reported the F (ab) region of antibodies (the region which bind to foreign pathogens) actually retail their biological activity.
Below is a chart showing studies of antibody recovery after oral administration of colostrum or serum.
Donor | Recipient | Preparation | Source | Percent %* | Reference | Year |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 10-20% | McClead et al. | 1998 |
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, colostrum | ++ | Lissner et al. | 1998 |
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 49% | Warns et al. | 1999 |
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 25% | Kelly et al. | 1997 |
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, serum | ++ | Hanning and Drew | 1994 |
Bovine | Adult | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 21% | Roos et al. | 1995 |
Bovine | In vitro | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 20-42% | Petschow and Talbott | 1994 |
Bovine | In vitro | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 50% | McClead and Gregory | 1984 |
Bovine | In vitro | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 25% | Kelly et al. | 1997 |
Bovine | Infant | Powder | lgG, colostrum | 13% | Zinkernagel et al. | 1975 |
Human | Infant | Liquid | lgG, serum | ~%25 | Losonsky et al. | 1985 |
Human | Infant | Liquid | lgG, serum | 4-%12 | Blum et al. | 1981 |
Human | Rat | Liquid | lgG, serum | 25.70% | Gmoshinkski et al. | 1998 |
*Represents % of original dose recovered in stool or in vitro sample |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do we use bovine (cow) colostrum?
Just like the cow's milk we are accustomed to drink, bovine colostrum and its components are safe for human consumption, except in the context of intolerance or allergy to lactose or other components. Since using human colostrum would raise numerous concerns amongst the public, the production of bovine colostrma s a health supplement is the next best thing.
Bovine colostrum from pasture-fed cows contains immunoglobulins that are non species specific and can work against many human pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Cryptosporidium parvum, Shigella flexneri, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and rotavirus (which causes diarrhea in infants). This means by consuming bovine colostrum, the immune factors can be passed on and provide pathogen protection in humans.
Before the development of antibiotics, colostrum was the main source of immunoglobulins used to fight infections. In fact, when Albert Sabin made his first oral vaccine against polio, the immunoglobulin he used came from bovine colostrum.
Who can benefit from taking colostrum?
Humans have been using colostrum as a dietary supplement for a variety of reasons for over thousands of years. Biolife's family of colostrum products are designed for a range of people ranging from infants to adults to those that experience low immunity.
- Infants and young childrenFor infants, formulations of colostrum compound powder is the best option. Our colostrum compound powders contains 90 gram of pure colostrum powder. It also includes Prebiotics to promote digestion and nutrient absorption in young children.
Babies initial immune resistance acquired from the mother begins to decline at 6 months of age* During this period of low immunity, children often require supplementary immune factors to support their health. In addition, growth factors and calcium in our colostrum formulations aid growth and development of children.
- Children and teenagersColostrum contains rich dairy proteins, growth factors, vitamins and minerals to promote bone density, and help with general growth and development. At the same time, it enhances immunity to reduce the risk of pathogen and viral attacks.
- Senior PopulationAs we age our organ functions begins to decline. After the age of 56, our immune antibodies (IgG) can drop down to 30-50% of the original level. This increases the risk of illness in the senior population. We can replenish IgG through taking colostrum. It can strengthen our physique, promote cellular growth and return functions back to health. In addition, insomnia is a common problem amongst the elderly, colostrum has also been tested and verified to improve sleep quality.
- Postoperative patientsAs the consumption of colostrum can boost immunity, this helps reduce the risk of post surgery infections. In addition, various growth factors present in colostrum and the abundant protein content can support rapid wound recovery, preventing weight reduction, and body fatigue as a result of healing.
What is the correct way to take colostrum to ensure bioactivity?
As the active components in colostrum are protein based, it is crucial these proteins (antibodies and other immune factors) retain their bioactivity and reach your stomach. Therefore careful preparation of colostrum products is recommended.
To retain the bioactivity of the immune components, a temperature lower than 40ºC is recommended for homogenization of colostrum using water and other liquid form foods such as milk powder solution and porridge. A temperature higher than 50ºC could cause denaturing of the protein components and cause loss of bioactivity.
Furthermore, carbonate soft drinks and acidic juice beverages should be avoided within an hour of colostrum consumption as the acidity of the fluids may disrupt the immune components in colostrum.
What is the recommended dosage and when should I take it?
The amount of bovine Colostrum required as a food supplement can vary depending on the age, weight and health of the person taking Colostrum.
- A healthy adult — the recommended dosage is 10 grams per day or three servings (3gm /serving) per day for health maintenance and support.
- A healthy adult under stress caused by sport, endurance, or other stress — studies in Europe on cyclists have shown that healthy adult human the body can tolerate up to 20 grams of protein every three hours, in some cases.
- Studies performed on symptomatic children with Rotaviral diarrhea also used 10 gram/day2. However, non-symptomatic healthy children typically can take 3 grams/day (one serving )
1 Journal of Applied Physiology
2 The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
As for when to start supplementing with colostrum, any time would be suitable for adults and children. Colostrum has a cumulative effect, which means that it should be taken for a minimum period of two to three weeks. If discontinued, the effect will gradually decrease.
For young children, experts pointed out that between 2~6 years old, children have not completed the development of their immune system while losing the maternally acquired immunity. Children at this stage may need external help to complement their own immunity. Children after 6 years old usually have 60%-70% of adult immunity and therefore they do not have to continue taking the immune supplements. If the colostrum supplements are discontinued at the stage between 4~6 years old, a gradual termination is recommended. The correct way is to take the colostrum product every other day and gradually transit to full termination.
I'm lactose intolerant, can I still take colostrum?
Unlike conventional milk, colostrum actually contains little lactose. Generally, people who are lactose-intolerant should experience no problems when taking colostrum. In addition, some lactose-intolerant people have even reported an increase in tolerance to lactose after taking colostrum for approximately six to eight weeks. There are some colostrum products on the market which contains no lactose because the lactose has been filtered out, this is a suitable option for people who choose a lactose-free diet or are severely allergic to lactose.
I've been taking colostrum for a while but I feel worse, what should I do?
Even though colostrum is 100% natural, it is still used here as a health supplement. Therefore, we urge you to talk to your health care professional before taking colostrum supplement long term.
A small percentage of people may experience flu-like symptoms, or have a rash during the first two weeks of taking colostrum. You may be experiencing what is known in the natural health community as a "healing crisis". You may wish to reduce the quantity of colostrum intake or stop using colostrum all together for a period of time and then try again by increasing your use gradually. Some people choose to take more colostrum during this period to help the body continue the healing process. Our advice is always to consult your medical practitioner before deciding on a course of action.
Can vegetarians take colostrum?
This depends largely on your own personal choice. Colostrum is a dairy product it is neither meat or vegetable. Many vegetarians include eggs and dairy as part of their diet and colostrum would be suitable for this diet. In addition the Rishis (India's spiritual leaders) adopting a vegan diet has included colostrum for thousands of years.
Although colostrum is not meat, it is an animal product, if you adopt the vegan diet which excludes all animal products then colostrum will not be suitable. The choice is ultimately yours.
Do adults also need to take colostrum?
As we get older, our bodies begin the aging process in which bodily functions begin to decline slowly. One bodily process worth mentioning is our immune system. Our bodies gradually produce less of the immune factors and growth factors that help us fight off disease and heal damaged body tissue. Colostrum is the only natural source to supplement these health components in adult-hood therefore it is not only suitable for children but people adults too.
Why not just get colostrum from a local dairy farm?
You may wish to purchase bulk colostrum from local dairy farms. However the colostrum is unprocessed, it will be thick, yellow and paste-like which makes it very difficult to consume. In addition, just like raw milk, fresh colostrum is un-pasteurised and could be contaminated with excrement or bacteria from the natural surrounding. PuraLife colostrum ® is pasteurized and low temperature spray-dried, it provides a broad spectrum of immune factors that have been pooled from the whole herd.
Should I be worried about mad cow disease or other animal diseases?
United States has never had a case of bovine spongiform encephalopathies (BSEs) and has been recognized as BSE free by the World Organisationfor Animal Health (OIE). All USA dairy products are safe to consume with no risk of BSEs or Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
On the basis of a growing body of scientific knowledge, experts agree that some bovine products are safe, regardless of the BSE status of a given country. Bovine products considered safe to eat or use include milk and milk products, gelatine, and collagen prepared exclusively from hides and skins.
Can I give colostrum to my dog or cat?
Since bovine colostrum is not species specific and works wonderfully for human health, it also works great with cats, dogs and other mammals. Older animals respond especially well when given colostrum. Sprinkle the colostrum in your pet's dish, most pets love the taste of colostrum. Feed your pet water along with the colostrum. It is usually recommended that you use 1/3 teaspoon per 25lbs of weight.
Personal Experiences
Many people have reported significant life changes with the use of bovine colostrum:
I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy of unknown etiology in 1993. Since changing my lifestyle and including supplements such as colostrum and CoQ10, the irregular heartbeat has normalized and I feel much better! — Mark S.; Sedona, AZ.
I would just like to tell you that for about 15 yrs. I had a cough and problem with sinus drainage. Have tried a lot of different things but nothing would help. I would cough up phlegm and when I went to bed at night I would cough sometimes 1/2 hr. to an 1hr., especially when laying on my back. I had a lot of problems with bronchitis for years. Since taking Colostrum I no longer have a cough and I can go to bed at night and not lay there and cough for hours. My sinus drainage is all but gone. Thank you — Loretta B.; Sparks, NV
References
- THE BOOK: BOVINE COLOSTRUM BASED FUNCTIONAL FOOD: Since colostrum is so beneficial and valuable, there are a lot of research data emerged worldwide. In China, the book Bovine Colostrum based Functional food is typical, this book is written by Dr. Cao, Jinsong with the support of Biolife New Zealand LTD.
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Professionals are saying:
When I first heard the claims about colostrum I dismissed them. Now, after seeing the research, and seeing patients’ results for myself, I’m a believer. - Dr. Donald Henderson MD
"Colostrum is valuable to me both personally and within my practice. I consider colostrum an important therapeutic aid for all my patients who have chronic infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal … Patients who gain the most from nutritional supplement are those with chronic fatigue syndrome, infectious diarrhea, sinusitis and Fibromyalgia." - Nikki-Marie Welch, MD, Sedona, AZ Townsend Letter for Doctor & Patients
"It is the growth factor content of colostrum which is truly exciting for the adult patient. The growth factors present in colostrum are numerous and of a character that provides great hope for biotechnology." - Daniel S. Bricker, B.S.
"Colostrum: Implications for Accelerated Recovery in Damaged Muscle and Cartilage, Prevention of Some Pathogenic Disease," - The American Chiropractor
"Completely healthy individuals can supplement with colostrum just to maintain their vitality and good health. Colostrum stimulates lean muscle growth and increases endurance…It also promoted the burning of excessive body fat [and] may even help reverse many signs of aging." - Zoltan Rona, M.D.
"It is now well-known that a wide range of antiviral factors are present in colostrum." - Dr. E.L Palmer, Atlanta, GA Center for Disease Control
"Colostrum contains nonspecific inhibitors that inhibit a wide range of respiratory illness, notably influenza viruses. Colostrum is specifically cited for its unique effectiveness against potentially deadly outbreaks of Asian Flu viruses that emerge from animal/human mutations." - Dr. Shortridge, et al, Journal of Tropical Pediatrics
"Glycoproteins, in bovine colostrum, inhibit the attachment of the Helicobactor pylori bacteria that cause stomach ulcers. Colostrum contains significant amounts of Interlukin-10 (a strong inflammation inhibitory agent), found significant in reducing inflammation in arthritic joints and injury areas." - Dr. Olle Hernell, University of Ulmea, Sweden, Science
"Colostrum and breast milk (from cows and humans) stimulates the newborn's immune system as yet, unidentified proteins speed the maturation of cultured B Lymphocytes (type of white blood cell) and primes them for production of antibodies." - Dr. Michael Julius, McGill University, Montreal; Science News
"Studies with human volunteers found that the preservation of the biological activity of IgG (immunoglobulin), in the digestive secretions of adults receiving bovine colostrum orally, indicates passive enteral (intestinal) immunization for the prevention and treatment of acute intestinal diseases." - Dr. L.B. Khazenson, Microbial & Epidemial Immunobiology
"Immunoglobulin from bovine colostrum effectively reduces and prevents viral and bacterial infections in immune deficient subjects: Bone marrow recipients, premature babies, AIDS patients" - New England Journal of Medicine
"PRP, in bovine colostrum, has the same ability to regulate activity of the immune system as hormones of the thymus gland. It activates an under active immune system, helping it move into action against disease-causing organisms. PRP also suppresses an overactive immune system, such as is often seen in the autoimmune diseases. PRP is highly anti-inflammatory and also appears to act on T-cell precursors to produce helper T-cells and suppressers T-cells." - Dr. Staroscik, et al., Molecular Immunology
"Bovine colostrum contains TGF-β which has an important suppressive effect on cytoxic substances (anti-inflammatory). Inhibits cell growth of human osteosarcoma (cancer) cells (75% inhibition). Mediator of fibrosis and angiogenesis (healing of heart muscle and blood vessels), (Roberts et. al., 1986), accelerates wound healing (sporn et. al., 1983) and bone formation (Centrella et al, 1987). - Drs. Tokuyama and Tokuyama, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazaw University, Japan
Growth factors in bovine colostrum were found to be very effective in promoting wound healing. Recommended for trauma and surgical healing. External and internal applications." - Dr. Spron, et al., Science
"Cartilage inducing Factor-A, found in colostrum, stimulates cartilage repair." - Drs. Seyedin, Thompson, Bentz, et al.; Journal of Biological Chemistry
"Colostrum is found to contain numerous powerful, naturally-occurring antioxidants." - Pediatric Research (Vol.24, No.1, pp. 14-19)
"Why colostrums is so important: Because it contains substances that provide temporary immunity against diseases and afflictions until the children own immune system 'turns on.' It contains substances that destroy viruses. It also starts proper bowel movements … stimulates physical growth and initiates many other body functions. One researcher has estimated that colostrum triggers at least 50 processes and functions in the newborn that provide lasting benefits, some lifelong. More recently, we have found that colostrum has great health benefits for adults." -Dr. Bernard Jensen, Ph.D. Colostrum: Life's First Food
"Clinical studies show that IgE (immunoglobulin), found in bovine colostrum, may be responsible for regulating allergic response."
"My experience with bovine colostrum has been quite phenomenal when it comes to Fibromyalgia cases. One has to be careful when it comes to colostrum sources, but and excellent source provides a truly beneficial treatment of Fibromyalgia when patients have not responded to anything else. Within two to three weeks their fatigue, muscle and joint paints, and other symptoms are all gone."- Carl Hawkins, DC, Salt Lake City, UT
"I have a number of patients who are arthritic, and bovine colostrum dispensed for the treatment of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis has provided them with amazingly good results." - Dr. Stephen Hynes, ND, San Angelo, TX
"[When colostrum is taken as a supplement] skin appears more youthful, age and 'liver' spots disappear, bone mass and density increases and sexual function is improved and restored." - Zoltan Rona, M.D.