Is Colostrum Good For Adults? 5 Benefits & What to Know Before Taking

Scott Patterson - August 9, 2024

Colostrum, often referred to as “first milk,” is the initial milk produced by mammals after giving birth. This nutrient-rich fluid is packed with proteins, antibodies, and growth factors that support the newborn's immune system.

While colostrum is essential for infants, it also offers numerous benefits for adults, especially when taken as a supplement. This post explains how colostrum can be beneficial for adults, how to use it, and what to consider before adding it to your routine.

Let’s start off with the 5 benefits:

1. Promotes healthy skin and hair

Colostrum’s growth factors can aid in skin regeneration, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products. It also stimulates the natural production of elastin, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and strength. The cytokines in colostrum promote cell repair, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Regular use of colostrum-based skincare products or supplements can improve your skin texture, hydration, and elasticity, making it a valuable addition to your skincare routine. Additionally, colostrum’s immune-boosting properties support overall health, offering broader support for your whole body wellness beyond just skin, hair, and nails.

2. Supports gut health

The growth factors in colostrum can help repair the gut lining, making it beneficial for those with leaky gut syndrome or other digestive issues. This can lead to better nutrient absorption and overall digestive health.

Colostrum contains lactoferrin, a protein that helps regulate iron absorption in the intestine and has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Regular intake of colostrum can promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall health and well-being.

3. Boosts immune system

Colostrum contains antibodies that can help strengthen your immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections and illnesses. Studies show that bovine colostrum can reduce the incidence of upper respiratory infections in adults.

The immunoglobulins present in colostrum can help neutralize pathogens, helping to protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses.

If you're looking to boost your immune response naturally, bovine colostrum supplements can be a valuable addition to your lifestyle.

4. Enhances athletic performance

Athletes may benefit from colostrum supplements due to its ability to increase muscle mass and strength, as well as reduce recovery time after intense exercise. Colostrum is rich in growth factors like IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which plays a key role in muscle growth and repair. Studies have shown that athletes who take colostrum supplements experience improved performance, increased lean muscle mass, and reduced muscle damage after workouts.

This makes colostrum an excellent supplement if you're looking to enhance your physical performance and recovery.

5. Supports overall wellness

Beyond these specific benefits, colostrum also supports overall wellness. It contains a rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that contribute to overall health – it’s like nature’s own super vitamin.

The presence of proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs) helps modulate the immune system, making sure it functions optimally without overreacting, which is particularly beneficial for those with autoimmune conditions.

Additionally, colostrum has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help adults manage chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of various diseases.

How often should you take colostrum?

Generally, it is safe to take colostrum daily. The frequency of taking colostrum supplements can vary based on individual health goals and product recommendations.

It’s essential to follow the dosage instructions on the product label and consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best regimen for you.

For those using colostrum to improve their skin or hair health, boost their immune system or improve gut health, consistent daily use is often recommended. Athletes may find it beneficial to adjust their dosage around training schedules to maximize recovery and performance benefits.

How long does it take for colostrum to work in adults?

The time it takes for colostrum to show benefits can differ among individuals. Some adults may notice improvements in their immune function and digestion within a few days to weeks.

However, for significant changes, especially in areas like athletic performance and skin health, it might take a few months of consistent use. Regular intake is key to seeing long-term benefits. Tracking your progress and noting any changes in your health can help you understand how colostrum is working for you.

It's also important to maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle to support the effectiveness of colostrum supplements.

Ethical considerations in colostrum production

When choosing colostrum supplements, consider the ethical practices involved in their production. Reputable brands source colostrum from cows that are ethically raised and not subjected to inhumane treatment.

Look for certifications and product descriptions that highlight ethical farming practices to ensure you’re making a responsible choice.

Ethical colostrum production involves humane treatment of cows, ensuring they are well-fed, healthy, and living in good conditions. This not only supports animal welfare but also guarantees that the colostrum is of the highest quality.

For example, here at Prelude, the farms we work with are all Grade A U.S. dairy farms. We ensure that all calves receive the colostrum they need first, and we only collect surplus colostrum that would otherwise go to waste.

Choosing colostrum from a brand like Prelude also means you’re opting for a product made in a GMP Certified Facility and tested by third parties, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.

Unlike other products that may be messy, milk-flavored powders from foreign farms, Prelude offers a delicious strawberry gummy made from pure whole colostrum sourced from U.S. farms. This commitment to ethical practices and superior quality makes a significant difference in the benefits and safety of the colostrum supplements you choose.

Adding colostrum to your routine

Incorporating colostrum into your daily routine can be easy and convenient, especially with colostrum gummies and colostrum powders,

These colostrum supplements provide all the benefits of colostrum in a tasty and easy-to-consume form. Here are some tips for adding colostrum supplements to your routine:

Start Small: Begin with the recommended dosage on the product label, usually one or two gummies or a scoop of powder per day. Observe how your body responds before increasing the dosage.
Consistent Intake: For best results, take your colostrum gummies or powder at the same time each day. This helps establish a routine and ensures consistent intake.
Combine with Meals: Taking colostrum supplements with meals can enhance absorption and reduce the risk of digestive discomfort. You can mix colostrum powder into your favorite smoothies, shakes, or even sprinkle it over yogurt or cereal.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall health and the benefits of colostrum.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of any changes in your health, energy levels, and overall well-being. This can help you understand how colostrum is benefiting you.