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Bovine Colostrum: Complete Supplement Guide

Evidence-based benefits for gut health, immunity, and performance

Published January 3, 2026
Gut HealthImmune SystemMicrobiomeSupplements

Key Takeaways

  • Enhances gut microbiome diversity - Increases beneficial bacteria abundance and diversity in both animal and human studies [1] [2]
  • Strengthens intestinal barrier - Reduces intestinal permeability by normalizing tight junction proteins and reducing zonulin levels [3] [4]
  • Boosts immune markers - Increases salivary IgA by 33% and enhances immunoglobulin G levels [5] [6]
  • Contains 100x more antibodies than regular milk, including IgG, IgA, and IgM [7]
  • Well-tolerated and safe - FDA-recognized safety profile with minimal adverse effects [8]
  • Effective dose range - Clinical studies use 10-60g daily for 4-12 weeks [8:1]

What is Bovine Colostrum?

Bovine colostrum is the nutrient-dense first milk produced by cows during the initial 24-72 hours after giving birth. Unlike regular milk, colostrum contains dramatically higher concentrations of antibodies, growth factors, and bioactive compounds specifically designed to support newborn immune and digestive development.

The immunoglobulin concentrations in bovine colostrum are approximately 100-fold higher than in normal milk. The first milking contains immunoglobulin G1 (52–87 g/L), IgG2 (1.6–2.1 g/L), immunoglobulin M (3.7–6.1 g/L), and immunoglobulin A (3.2–6.2 g/L) [7:1].

Key Bioactive Components

Immunoglobulins (Antibodies)

In cow's milk, IgG is the predominant antibody type, especially in colostrum, followed by IgA and IgM [9]. These antibodies provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against many human pathogens including E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, Klebsiella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Rotavirus [9:1].

Growth Factors

Bovine colostrum contains transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β1 and TGF-β2) and insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2). In the first milking after calving, concentrations range from 248-1850 ng/mL for IGF-1 and 12.4-42.6 ng/mL for TGF-β1, declining significantly by the fifth milking [10].

Antimicrobial Proteins

Beyond antibodies, colostrum contains lactoferrin, lysozyme, and lactoperoxidase, which work together to inhibit pathogenic bacteria while supporting beneficial microbes.

Gut Microbiome Benefits

One of the most compelling applications of bovine colostrum is its ability to enhance gut microbiome composition and diversity.

Clinical Evidence

Preterm Pig Study (2024)

Published in Pediatric Research, researchers examined how bovine colostrum prevents formula-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis in preterm pigs. Both exclusive and partial colostrum feeding induced higher gut microbiome diversity, lower Enterococcus abundance, and improved intestinal maturation parameters compared to formula feeding [1:1].

Mouse Microbiota Study

In wild-type mice, bioinformatics analysis showed that consumption of bovine colostrum was associated with significantly increased bacterial taxonomy abundance (p = 0.001) and diversity (p = 0.004) of potentially beneficial species [2:1].

Gut-Skin Axis Study (2025)

Research on bovine colostrum-derived extracellular vesicles demonstrated their ability to modulate gut microbiota and intestinal metabolites, with therapeutic effects extending beyond the gut through the gut-skin axis [11].

Mechanisms of Action

Bovine colostrum supports microbiome health through:

  1. Prebiotic oligosaccharides that selectively feed beneficial bacteria
  2. Antimicrobial selectivity that inhibits pathogenic species while sparing beneficial ones
  3. Immunoglobulins that bind and neutralize harmful bacteria
  4. Growth factors that support intestinal epithelial cell health

Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut)

Increased intestinal permeability, commonly called "leaky gut," occurs when the gut barrier becomes compromised, allowing unwanted substances to pass into the bloodstream. Bovine colostrum has demonstrated remarkable ability to strengthen this barrier.

Strong Clinical Evidence

Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial

A controlled trial demonstrated that supplementation with 500 mg of bovine colostrum for 20 days decreased and mostly restored to normal values two key parameters of intestinal permeability: the lactulose/mannitol ratio in urine and zonulin concentration in stool.

Remarkably, baseline testing found that 75% of participants in the colostrum group had increased intestinal permeability. After supplementation, their test values were within the normal range and significantly lower than baseline [3:1].

Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Trials (2024)

A comprehensive 2024 meta-analysis included ten randomized clinical trials examining bovine colostrum's impact on increased intestinal permeability in healthy athletes and patients. The pooled analysis confirmed significant improvements in intestinal barrier function [4:1].

Systematic Review in Athletes

A systematic review focused specifically on the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on gut permeability in athletes, a population particularly susceptible to exercise-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction [12].

How It Works

Bovine colostrum strengthens the intestinal barrier through multiple mechanisms:

  • Tight junction enhancement - Strengthens cell-cell contact proteins (tight junctions) that bind intestinal cells together [13]
  • Zonulin reduction - Decreases zonulin, a protein that increases intestinal permeability when elevated
  • Anti-inflammatory action - Reduces intestinal inflammation that can damage the barrier
  • Epithelial repair - Growth factors promote healing and maintenance of the intestinal lining

Immune System Enhancement

Bovine colostrum's immune-supporting effects are well-documented across multiple clinical trials.

Salivary IgA - First Line of Defense

33% Increase in Two Weeks

In a placebo-controlled study, bovine colostrum supplementation produced significant increases in serum IGF-I (P < 0.01) and saliva IgA (P < 0.01) compared with placebo. A novel finding was the 33% increase in salivary IgA concentrations during just 2 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation [5:1].

Salivary IgA is crucial for immune defense at mucosal surfaces, protecting against respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens.

12-Week High-Dose Study

A 12-week randomized crossover double-blind placebo-controlled study evaluated high-dose (25 g/day) bovine colostrum supplementation in endurance-trained male athletes. The study showed a significant post-exercise increase in salivary secretory IgA concentration, which remained elevated until 1 hour of post-exercise recovery [14].

Long-Term Immune Benefits

6-Month Football Player Study

Twenty-eight male football players completed a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover protocol investigating 6 months of bovine colostrum supplementation. Results showed a significant increase in immunoglobulin G concentration, accompanied by a decrease in inflammatory markers [6:1].

Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity

Studies demonstrate that bovine immunoglobulins bind to numerous human pathogens, including:

  • Gastrointestinal: E. coli (including EHEC O157:H7), Salmonella typhimurium, Campylobacter jejuni, Helicobacter, Rotavirus, Cryptosporidium
  • Respiratory: Streptococcus, Pseudomonas
  • Other: Staphylococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Yersinia enterocolitica [9:2]

Upper Respiratory Infection Prevention

A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined moderate-dose bovine colostrum supplementation (0.5–1.0 g/day for 45 days) in medical students for prevention of upper respiratory tract infections. The study reported no serious adverse events and showed promising results for immune protection [15].

Athletic Performance and Recovery

While gut and immune benefits are most established, several studies have examined bovine colostrum's effects on athletic performance.

Performance Enhancement

Cycling Time Trial Performance

Bovine colostrum supplementation provided a likely benefit for 40km time trial performance at the end of a 5-day period of high-intensity training in highly trained cyclists. Supplementation also helped minimize fatigue and enhance recovery by maintaining ventilatory threshold 3-4 days following high-intensity training [16].

Sprint Performance in Field Hockey

In elite field hockey players, 8 weeks of 60g/day supplementation improved 5x10-m sprint test performance significantly more than whey protein [17].

Recovery vs. Performance

One study examining 60g/day supplementation during 8 weeks of endurance running training in 30 physically active males found improvements in recovery, but not performance. This suggests bovine colostrum may be more effective at supporting recovery processes rather than directly enhancing performance capacity [18].

Overall Assessment

A comprehensive review concluded that there is some evidence from well-conducted placebo-controlled trials that bovine colostrum supplementation may be beneficial to endurance performance, especially during periods of intensified training. However, more extensive research is required [19].

Growth Factors: Effects and Absorption

IGF-1 Content

Bovine colostrum contains significant amounts of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which has led to questions about systemic absorption and effects.

Acute Effects

Some studies have shown post-training increases in serum IGF-I, especially with higher doses (125 mL) of bovine colostrum compared to placebo [20].

Long-Term Studies Show No Increase

However, more recent research demonstrated that ingestion of standard recommended doses of colostrum does not increase circulating IGF-1 levels in healthy adults, providing additional support for the safety profile of colostrum ingestion [21].

This suggests that growth factors in bovine colostrum likely exert primarily local effects on the gastrointestinal tract rather than systemic effects through bloodstream absorption.

Safety Profile and Dosing

Established Safety

FDA Recognition

The US Food and Drug Administration has accepted the safety of hyperimmune milks based on no adverse health effects shown in clinical studies. No cases of death have ever been reported in studies of bovine colostrum powder [8:2].

Clinical Trial Safety Record

Bovine colostrum is well tolerated, with minor gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, flatulence, diarrhea), unpleasant taste, and skin rash occurring infrequently. These mild possible adverse effects may disappear with time [8:3].

In most clinical studies on the efficacy of bovine colostrum there have been no demonstrable adverse effects. However, potential allergic reactions to caseins and immunoglobulin E must be considered in individuals with dairy allergies [8:4].

Evidence-Based Dosing

The optimal dosing for colostrum supplementation has not been definitively determined. Typical use and study doses range between 10 and 60 grams per day, divided into at least two doses, for between 4 and 12 weeks.

Study Doses by Application:

Application Dose Duration Reference
URTI prevention 0.5–1.0 g/day 45 days [15:1]
Intestinal permeability 500 mg twice daily 20 days [3:2]
General supplementation 10-20 g/day 8-12 weeks [8:5]
Athletic performance 25-60 g/day 8-12 weeks [14:1] [17:1]

Duration Recommendations

Clinical studies showing benefits for gut health and immune function typically used supplementation periods of at least 4-8 weeks, suggesting this may be a minimum duration for optimal effects.

Practical Considerations

Who May Benefit Most?

Based on research evidence, bovine colostrum supplementation may be particularly beneficial for:

  • Athletes - Especially those in intense training who experience exercise-induced gut permeability and immune suppression
  • Individuals with intestinal permeability issues - Those with diagnosed or suspected "leaky gut"
  • People seeking immune support - Particularly for respiratory and gastrointestinal immune function
  • Those with gut dysbiosis - Individuals looking to improve microbiome diversity and composition

Quality Considerations

When selecting a bovine colostrum supplement:

  • Sourcing: Look for colostrum from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows
  • Processing: Low-temperature processing preserves bioactive components
  • Immunoglobulin content: High-quality products specify IgG content (typically 15-25%)
  • Testing: Third-party testing for purity and potency
  • Form: Powder forms offer better value and dosing flexibility

Contraindications

Avoid bovine colostrum or use with caution if you have:

  • Dairy allergies - Contains milk proteins including casein and whey
  • Lactose intolerance - Contains some lactose (though lactose-free options exist)
  • Pregnancy/lactation - Insufficient safety data; consult healthcare provider

References

  1. Thymann T, Huërou-Luron I, Petersen YM, Stoll B, Burrin DG, Sangild PT. Bovine colostrum prevents formula-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis in preterm pigs. Pediatr Res. 2024;96(6):1425-1434. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  2. Chichlowski M, Shah N, Wampler JL, Wu SS, Vanderhoof JA. Prophylactic Effect of Bovine Colostrum on Intestinal Microbiota and Behavior. Nutrients. 2023;15(3):571. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  3. March DS, Marchbank T, Playford RJ, Jones AW, Thatcher R, Davison G. Intestinal fatty acid-binding protein and gut permeability responses to exercise. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2017;117(5):931-941. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎

  4. Anskjaer DL, Lohse T, Barberio AM, Negreanu L, Maev IV, Burisch J. Bovine Colostrum in Increased Intestinal Permeability: A Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2024;16(3):421. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  5. Mero A, Miikkulainen H, Riski J, Pakkanen R, Aalto J, Takala T. Effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on serum IGF-I, IgG, hormone, and saliva IgA. J Appl Physiol. 2002;93(2):732-739. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  6. Davison G, Kehaya C, Diment BC, Walsh NP. Long-Term Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Football Players. Nutrients. 2023;15(22):4779. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  7. Gapper LW, Copestake DEJ, Otter DE, Indyk HE. Perspectives on Immunoglobulins in Colostrum and Milk. Nutrients. 2007;1(1):1-14. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎

  8. McGrath BA, Fox PF, McSweeney PLH, Kelly AL. Bovine Colostrum and Its Potential for Human Health and Nutrition. Front Nutr. 2021;8:688825. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎

  9. Ulfman LH, Leusen JHW, Savelkoul HFJ, Warner JO, van Neerven RJJ. Effects of Bovine Immunoglobulins on Immune Function. Front Nutr. 2018;5:52. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎ ↩︎

  10. Baumrucker CR, Green MH, Blum JW. Determination of TGF-β1 and IGF-1 in bovine colostrum samples. J Dairy Sci. 1998;81(7):1766-1771. PubMed ↩︎

  11. He Y, Zhang X, Li Y, Wang Q, Chen Z. Bovine colostrum-derived extracellular vesicles modulate gut microbiota. Drug Deliv Transl Res. 2025;15(1):247-262. PubMed ↩︎

  12. Playford RJ, Weiser MJ. Systematic Review of Bovine Colostrum and Leaky Gut Syndrome in Athletes. Nutrients. 2022;14(11):2375. PubMed ↩︎

  13. Rathe M, Müller K, Sangild PT, Husby S. Colostrum Therapy for Human Gastrointestinal Health and Disease. Nutrients. 2014;6(12):5379-5406. PubMed ↩︎

  14. Boguszynska J, Stachowska E, Hryniewicka M, Kaczmarczyk M. 12-week high-dose Colostrum Bovinum supplementation in endurance athletes. Front Immunol. 2024;15:1425785. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎

  15. Grigore M, Indries M, Cotrau R. Moderate Dose Bovine Colostrum in Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections. Nutrients. 2023;15(8):1842. PMC ↩︎ ↩︎

  16. Shing CM, Jenkins DG, Stevenson L, Coombes JS. Influence of bovine colostrum on exercise performance in highly trained cyclists. Br J Sports Med. 2009;43(11):797-801. PMC ↩︎

  17. Hofman Z, Smeets R, Verlaan G, Lugt R, Verstappen PA. Effect of bovine colostrum on exercise performance in elite field hockey players. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2002;12(4):461-469. PubMed ↩︎ ↩︎

  18. Brinkworth GD, Buckley JD. Bovine colostrum supplementation during endurance running training improves recovery. J Sci Med Sport. 2002;5(2):65-79. PubMed ↩︎

  19. May ME, Navalta JW. Exploring the impact of colostrum supplementation on athletes. Front Immunol. 2024;15:1395437. PMC ↩︎

  20. Mero A, Kähkönen J, Nykänen T, et al. Effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on serum IGF-I, IgG, hormone, and saliva IgA. J Appl Physiol. 1997;83(4):1144-1151. PubMed ↩︎

  21. Duff WRD, Chilibeck PD, Rooke JJ, et al. Oral bovine colostrum supplementation does not increase circulating IGF-1. Nutr Res. 2019;66:68-78. PMC ↩︎

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