colostrum “first milk” Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Digital Baby Formula Campaigns Undermine Breastfeeding & Put Child Health at Risk

The AHA! Team — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:21:37 +0000

SciDev.Net via News-Medical – Breastfeeding saves lives. It is one of the most powerful, proven investments in child survival, development and health. A global resolution on digital marketing of breast milk substitutes must be rigorously enforced, writes Afshan Khan, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and coordinator of the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement. Breastfeeding saves lives. It is one of the most powerful, proven investments in child survival, development and health. And yet its practice is being undermined — not by science, but by sophisticated and often misleading digital marketing. More than half of new parents are exposed to online promotions for formula milk, often disguised as medical advice or peer support. In some countries, that figure rises to over 90 per cent. What these aggressive campaigns for breast milk substitutes (BMS) do not tell parents is that breast milk is essential for building a child’s immune system — something formula simply cannot do. They also ignore a critical risk: formula must be mixed with water, and in communities without safe water access, this often leads to illness and infection in young children. Digital marketing campaigns are targeting parents at their most vulnerable — when they are seeking guidance, not manipulation. These tactics distort choice by drowning out trusted, evidence-based information with biased, misleading promotion. This not only undermines public health principles and a decade of progress in breastfeeding promotion, it also puts the health and future of entire generations at risk. These digital marketing tactics contravene a longstanding global framework. The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1981, was designed to protect families from precisely this kind of exploitation. Yet, as a 2022 WHO and UNICEF report revealed, formula companies now spend up to 70 per cent of their marketing budgets on digital tools — from apps and virtual baby clubs to paid influencers and online forums — harvesting personal data and pushing targeted promotions in breach of the Code. In response, WHO member states adopted a landmark resolution at the World Health Assembly in Geneva this week (26 May) to curb digital marketing of breast milk substitutes and protect parents’ right to accurate, transparent information. Led by Mexico and Brazil and supported by nine country members of the UN-hosted Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement, this resolution is a critical step forward. The science on breast milk is long proven. By providing essential nutrition, strengthening immunity, and supporting cognitive development, breastfeeding can radically change the health and economic outcomes of mother and child. Scaling up breastfeeding globally could prevent 823,000 unnecessary child deaths and 20,000 deaths from breast cancer every year. It has been linked to a 20 per cent reduction in the risk of physical and cognitive stunting. These recognised advantages of breast milk had begun to take hold. Since 2012, rates of exclusive breastfeeding have risen from 37 per cent to nearly 48 per cent in 2021. Three quarters of these children live in low- and lower-middle-income countries, which represents important, tangible progress. But digital platforms spreading misleading formula marketing are cutting into this progress, with inadequate breastfeeding responsible for 16 per cent of child deaths each year. The new resolution gives countries a new framework to take action. Translating this into results will, however, require further coordinated efforts across sectors. First, stronger enforcement is essential. Countries need robust monitoring and accountability systems to track violations and respond effectively. Vietnam offers a promising model: with support from the SUN Civil Society Alliance, it has launched the AI-powered Virtual Violations Detector, which identifies breaches of the Code in real time and alerts regulators, enabling swift action and targeted advocacy. Another step will be to align fragmented policies across civil society and health systems. Harmful breast milk substitute marketing flourishes in disconnected systems, such as when health workers lack guidance, civil society is under-resourced, or tech platforms are unregulated. To close these gaps, governments must adopt an approach that brings all actors to the table. Finally, it is equally important to support positive campaigns that champion breastfeeding. It is not enough to restrict harmful marketing — parents need support and encouragement to make informed decisions. El Salvador has shown through its “Nacer con Cariño” (Born with Love) national policy how the promotion of breastfeeding can be integrated into prenatal and delivery care. Since its implementation in 2021, 69,000 babies have been born under this respectful care model and, thanks to the training of more than 1,000 breastfeeding counsellors supported by the SUN Movement, the country has far surpassed the global exclusive breastfeeding targets of 50 per cent for 2025, reaching a rate of more than 65 per cent. Informed parents make empowered choices, and empowered choices give every child the best possible start in life. Together with the resolution on the extension of the World Health Assembly nutrition targets, and the commitments made by countries at the Nutrition for Growth Summit in Paris earlier this year, we have a renewed mandate to act. Let’s make sure we use it and ensure this resolution moves from Geneva into meaningful action and change online and on the ground. Afshan Khan is Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and coordinator of the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement. Source: SciDev.Net To read the original article click here.

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Colostrum: Benefits of Nature’s First Superfood

The AHA! Team — Mon, 05 May 2025 05:19:33 +0000

Joe Boland via Dr. Axe – Colostrum is a form of milk produced by mammals during late pregnancy and the first few days after giving birth. It is thicker, yellowish and more nutrient-dense than regular milk. Colostrum is often referred to as “nature’s first food” or “liquid gold” because it is the first form of milk produced by mammals, including humans (breast milk), in the early days following childbirth. This nutrient-rich, antibody-packed fluid plays a critical role in boosting the immune system and promoting gut health in newborns. However, colostrum isn’t just for infants. It’s increasingly being used by adults as a supplement to support immune health, improve digestion and enhance athletic performance. What exactly is colostrum, and how can it benefit your health? This article will dive into the details of this supplement, its nutrition profile, health benefits and how to use it. What is colostrum? Colostrum is a form of milk produced by mammals during late pregnancy and the first few days after giving birth. It is thicker, yellowish and more nutrient-dense than regular milk. It is packed with essential nutrients, including antibodies (immunoglobulins), growth factors and cytokines, that help strengthen the immune system and promote tissue repair. Bovine colostrum While it is most commonly associated with infant nutrition, bovine colostrum (from cows) has become popular as a supplement for adults due to its health-boosting properties. Bovine colostrum is almost identical to human colostrum but contains even higher levels of certain beneficial compounds, making it an attractive option for supplementation. Many supplements derived from bovine colostrum are available in powder, capsule or liquid form. Nutrition facts Colostrum is a powerhouse of nutrients. Though its nutritional composition can vary depending on the source (human, bovine, etc.), common components include: Proteins: It is rich in bioactive proteins, including lactoferrin, which supports immune function, and casein, which promotes muscle recovery. Antibodies (Immunoglobulins): These proteins help the body fight infections. Bovine colostrum benefits include that it is particularly high in immunoglobulins G (IgG), A (IgA) and M (IgM). Growth factors: It contains insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2), which are important for tissue repair and muscle growth. Cytokines: These small proteins help modulate the immune response, reducing inflammation. Carbohydrates: It provides energy primarily through lactose, a natural sugar found in milk. Fats: Healthy fats in this liquid provide essential fatty acids and contribute to brain and cellular health. Vitamins and minerals: It contains a wide array of micronutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, vitamin D, B complex, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, which support overall health. Colostrum benefits 1. Boosts immune function Colostrum is loaded with antibodies and immune-boosting factors that help the body fight off infections. Studies have shown that bovine colostrum benefits include that it can improve immunity, particularly in the gut, where it helps combat pathogens and bacteria. In fact, a review published in 2024 in the journal Nutrients revealed that “bovine colostrum is an ingredient that has a positive effect on immunity in people of all ages.” Another review highlighted that bovine colostrum contains immunoglobulins, lactoferrin and casein, which can modulate the function of lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells. It also increases regulatory cytokines like interleukin-10, contributing to its immunomodulatory effects. A placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized, cross-over trial A placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized, cross-over trial involving 12 healthy subjects evaluated the acute effects of a bovine colostrum low-molecular weight fraction (CLMWF) on innate immune function. Participants received either a placebo or 150 mg of CLMWF orally, and blood samples were collected immediately before and at one and two hours after consumption. The study found that CLMWF consumption led to rapid changes in cellular immune function, suggesting an enhancement of innate immunity. Yet another study examined the effects of 12 weeks of bovine colostrum milk supplementation on immune function. The findings indicated that consuming the milk may induce metabolic changes and reduce the expression of various pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby improving immune function. 2. Supports gut health The growth factors and immunoglobulins in colostrum promote gut health by helping restore the intestinal lining. It helps stimulate the growth of intestinal cells, strengthen the gut wall and prevent intestinal permeability. This makes it beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions like leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or diarrhea caused by infection. Research published in 2017 For instance, research published in 2017 found that oral supplementation with bovine colostrum decreased intestinal permeability and stool concentrations of zonulin, “a protein that modulates the permeability of narrow junctions between the cells of the digestive tract wall and is considered an important biomarker used to assess impaired gut barrier function,” in athletes. Another study found that patients with IBS who took colostrum had a slightly higher rate of symptom relief compared to a placebo. It’s also been found to effectively treat infectious diarrhea in several studies. A 2021 review highlighted substantial evidence of bovine colostrum’s efficacy in managing inflammatory bowel disease. The study suggested that its bioactive components contribute to mucosal healing and modulation of the immune response in the gut. 3. Enhances athletic performance and muscle recovery Athletes often use colostrum supplements to improve muscle recovery and enhance performance. The growth factors it contains, particularly IGF-1, help repair muscle tissue and boost stamina, as shown in soccer players. Research also has indicated that colostrum benefits include that it can reduce muscle damage and improve recovery after intense exercise, including in football players. A 2002 study A 2002 study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport examined the impact of bovine colostrum supplementation during endurance running training. Participants consumed 60 grams per day of either bovine colostrum or a whey protein placebo over an eight-week period. The findings indicated that while colostrum supplementation did not significantly improve running performance, it did enhance recovery, as evidenced by improved post-exercise recovery markers. Further research published in 2005 Further research published in 2005 explored the effects of a two-week bovine colostrum supplementation (20 grams per day) on muscle protein metabolism and strength performance in physically active men. The study found that supplementation led to increased serum concentrations of essential amino acids during recovery after strength training sessions. However, there were no significant differences in strength performance or protein net balance between the colostrum and placebo groups. A 2024 study investigated the effects of a 12-week high-dose colostrum supplementation (25 grams per day) in endurance-trained male athletes. The results showed a favorable increase in post-exercise salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) concentrations, suggesting that this supplement may support local immune defense mechanisms following exercise-induced stress. 4. May aid in weight management Colostrum’s ability to promote lean muscle growth and regulate the gut microbiome can play a role in weight management. Although research is limited, some studies have suggested that it may help support fat metabolism and maintain a healthy body composition. A randomized clinical trial involving children with the condition nonorganic failure to thrive assessed the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation (40 mg/kg/day) over a three-month period. The study found that children receiving colostrum experienced a significant increase in weight compared to the control group, indicating that it may aid in weight gain in pediatric populations with growth challenges. Another study explored the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation (5 grams twice daily) over four weeks in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The findings showed a continual decrease in postprandial blood glucose levels during the supplementation period, suggesting that colostrum may have a role in glycemic control, which could indirectly influence weight management. 5. Promotes skin health The growth factors and vitamins in this substance can promote skin repair and reduce signs of aging. Its high levels of antioxidants also help protect the skin from oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology examined the “the protective effect that liposomal bovine colostrum exerts on skin aging using telomere length as an aging biomarker.” The researchers concluded that “topical treatment of the liposomal bovine colostrum formulation would enhance skin health as the skin ages.” 6. Supports respiratory health Bovine colostrum has been shown to reduce the incidence of upper respiratory infections, particularly in athletes who are prone to these conditions due to intense physical exertion. Its immune-modulating properties help protect against common respiratory pathogens. A 2003 study examined the effects of concentrated bovine colostrum protein (CBC) supplementation on the incidence of self-reported symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in adult males. Participants consumed 60 grams per day of either CBC or a whey protein placebo for eight weeks. The findings revealed that a significantly lower proportion of subjects in the CBC group reported URTI symptoms compared to the placebo group (32% vs. 48%, respectively), suggesting that CBC supplementation may reduce the incidence of URTIs. Another randomized, controlled trial Another randomized, controlled trial investigated whether moderate-dose bovine colostrum supplementation could prevent URTIs in young adults. Participants received bovine colostrum supplementation, and the results indicated a protective effect against URTIs, supporting the potential of colostrum in maintaining respiratory health in this population. Meanwhile, more research assessed the preventive use of bovine colostrum against URTIs in healthy preschool children. In this randomized, controlled trial, children received bovine colostrum supplementation for six weeks. The results demonstrated that supplementation effectively reduced the incidence of URTIs in this age group, indicating its potential benefit in supporting respiratory health among young children. Supplements and dosage Colostrum supplements are most commonly derived from cows (bovine colostrum) and come in several forms, including powder, capsules, tablets and liquid. While there’s no standardized dosage, most studies have used 20-60 grams of bovine colostrum per day. It’s best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as tolerated. Effective dosage The most effective dosage can vary based on the intended health benefits, but typical recommendations are as follows: General Immune Support: 500-1,000 mg per day. Athletic Performance: 10-20 grams of colostrum powder per day. Gut Health: 1-2 grams per day, depending on the severity of the condition. When using colostrum powder, it can be mixed into water, smoothies, other beverages or soft foods for easy consumption. Capsules and tablets should be taken with water. For maximum absorption, it’s often recommended to take it on an empty stomach. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions on the specific product you’re using, as concentrations may vary. Risks and side effects Bovine colostrum is generally considered safe for most people. However, some potential side effects may include: Nausea Bloating Flatulence While it is generally considered safe for most people, it is essential to be aware of potential risks: Allergic reactions: Individuals who are allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant may experience allergic reactions or digestive issues, like bloating, gas or diarrhea, when consuming it. Interactions with medications: It could interact with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants. Consult your healthcare provider if you’re on any medications before adding colostrum supplements to your routine. Contamination risks: Poor-quality supplements may be contaminated with pathogens or heavy metals, so it’s essential to purchase from reputable brands that conduct third-party testing. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare providers before taking colostrum supplements to ensure safety for themselves and their babies. Frequently asked questions What is bovine colostrum? Bovine colostrum is the nutrient-rich first milk produced by cows within the first few days after giving birth. It is packed with essential nutrients, growth factors, antibodies and immune-boosting compounds that support the health and development of newborn calves. Because of its beneficial properties, it is also used as a dietary supplement for humans. How do you collect colostrum? Colostrum is collected from cows within the first 24-48 hours after they give birth. Farmers and dairy producers typically use milking machines or manual milking techniques to extract it. The collected colostrum is then stored under controlled conditions, either refrigerated or freeze-dried, to preserve its bioactive compounds for supplementation or medical use. What is the purpose of colostrum? Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth, designed to provide newborns with essential nutrients, antibodies and growth...

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Could Our Next Superfood Be Colostrum From Cows?

AHA Publisher — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 07:00:22 +0000

Brian Blum via Israel21c – Here’s a riddle: What can strengthen the immune system, balance digestion and aid in brain and bone development? The answer is something most of us take for granted: breastmilk. More specifically, the colostrum “first milk” produced by the mammary glands in the first few days postpartum. Biomedical engineer Maya Ashkenazi-Otmazgin was thinking about the magical qualities of breastmilk when she had a baby four years ago. “There’s this one substance that contains all the important molecules necessary for our biological system to grow and evolve,” she tells ISRAEL21c. “Because of this milk, we are here, alive and kicking.” She wondered if the health benefits of breastmilk and colostrum could be harnessed to create a superfood that would be available to everyone – adults, athletes, the elderly… even pets. But Ashkenazi-Otmazgin didn’t envision asking mothers in the first few days of nursing to donate their colostrum. There was another source, whose proteins are 95% biosimilar to human breastmilk and is available in such abundance that 5 billion liters of it are thrown away every year around the world. Bovine colostrum. Modern dairy farms only allow a newborn calf to ingest the colostrum from its mother for a day or two before transitioning the calf to a set diet. But the mother cow produces colostrum for up to five days. That means a lot of colostrum is going to waste – some 25 to 35 liters per cow – and dairy producers can’t put it in the regular milk for both regulatory and taste reasons. “I wondered why we were not understanding the proteins inside breastmilk and trying to find bioequivalents in other sources,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. After all, “breastmilk is the ‘gold standard’ for nutrients and grownups are being deprived of one of life’s greatest resources.” Functional Milk Protein In 2018, Ashkenazi-Otmazgin teamed up with Dr. Ariel Orbach and Eli Lerner. They raised $3.2 million in seed funding to start Maolac (M.A.O. are her initials, combined with “lac” for lactose), dedicated to introducing “human functional milk proteins into new segments,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin, now the company’s CEO, says. Maolac uses the colostrum from days two to five. That ensures the calf isn’t being shortchanged for the benefit of human yogurt lovers. The Maolac team started by mapping out some 1,500 bioactive proteins in human breastmilk and then identifying the overlap with bovine colostrum. It turns out there are over 400 homologue proteins – that is, proteins containing genes similar in structure and evolutionary origin to genes in another species. “We created a smart algorithm that uses bioinformatic tools and proteomics to understand the combinations of several proteins for different indications,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. “We were then able to find the same in bovine colostrum.” Improving Nature’s Recipe Maolac tranforms the bovine colostrum into a white powder that can be added to various foods – ice cream will be among Maolac’s first products – but Ashkenazi-Otmazgin stresses that it can be added to cooked foods such as pasta without losing functionality. The additive has no discernible taste, so it won’t ruin the flavor of your fettuccini al colostrum. “We found a way to take nature’s recipe and bring it into the 21st century,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. Maolac’s business proposition is solidly win-win. If, in the past, farmers had to pay to dispose of biological waste like colostrum, Maolac flips that model and pays the farmers to take it off their hands. Food manufacturers can expect to pay around $500 per kilogram, similar to other protein supplements in the market, although Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says it takes less colostrum powder to achieve the same benefits, making the final price cheaper. Maolac’s first target audience is athletes, a $65 billion market. Because colostrum has anti-inflammatory properties, Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says consuming a food or beverage with “Maolac inside” should reduce muscle strain and improve recovery time. The same formula may also help improve mobility in the elderly. Moving beyond athletes, Ashkenazi-Otmazgin hopes Maoloc’s products will help with overall intestinal issues including IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) and leaky gut syndrome. IBD-related treatments are a $20 billion market, Ashkenazi-Otmazgin notes. “For IBD, our product is very effective even in very small doses of just a few hundred milligrams a day,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. “That makes it easy to put in an energy bar or a beverage. If we can reduce cases of inflammation in the gut, we can allow someone to return to a normal routine. You would be able to go to a restaurant and not be afraid of what could happen. It wouldn’t influence your love life. And all this is happening by helping your body through its own immune mechanism to do the healing process. It’s not done in a synthetic way.” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin contrasts the Maolac approach to probiotics, where “you’re bringing to your own microbiome things from the outside. We support the natural healing process of the digestive system.” New Sources of Protein If Maolac’s timeframe holds, the first products should hit the market in the second half of 2023. Maolac was initially supported by the Strauss Group’s The Kitchen food-tech accelerator; the company now has its own offices in Tirat HaCarmel, south of Haifa. The total amount raised by the 12-person company is just over $4 million. The latest funding round, led by OurCrowd and The Kitchen, will go to building a small-scale pilot production facility. OurCrowd CEO Jon Medved calls “the idea of transforming the first, nutrient-rich milk of cows that have just given birth into a source for human protein a stroke of pure genius.” In a world “desperately searching for new sustainable sources of protein,” he adds, “the company is a perfect example of the circular economy in action” as it turns a waste product into a valuable item. Maoloc currently has a ready-to-go product and the company is in discussions with potential customers and third-party manufacturers, Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. Plant-Based Product Planned Bovine colostrum is not the end of the Maolac story. “We can use our proteomics discovery platform to create new ingredients from plants – from fungi and algae,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says, although proteins created this way will have only 60% to 80% biosimilarity, compared with 95% for bovine colostrum. Nevertheless, “We wanted a solution for vegans. We need to respect everyone,” she says. “In the end, we will have a portfolio of products to sell to food companies, cosmetics companies, supplement companies. They will implement the ingredients in the finished product while we will do all the regulatory work and the clinical studies to prove the effectiveness and safety of each product,” Ashkenazi-Otmazgin says. For more information, click here To read the original article click here.

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