Colostrum and Respiratory Tract Infections

Bovine Colostrum and Respiratory Tract Infections

Contrary to evidence from past studies, a recent study suggests that bovine colostrum supplementation may not provide added defense against upper respiratory tract symptoms in humans.

Bovine colostrum is a pre-milk fluid produced by cows post-birth in order to deliver nutrients to their offspring. Bovine colostrum contains immunoglobulins, which may help stimulate immune system function and has been studied for treatment of many conditions; however, clinical data are currently inconclusive regarding its effectiveness.

Researchers at Auckland Hospital in New Zealand included 25 swimmers and 28 non-exercising students in this 10-week-long study. The swimmers and students were randomly assigned to receive 25 grams of bovine colostrum or a placebo daily for 10 weeks. Saliva and blood samples were analyzed from every participant before treatment, throughout treatment and up to two weeks after treatment ended. The researchers also evaluated dietary intake and the patients' self-assessments of upper respiratory tract symptoms.

The researchers found that bovine colostrum had no effect on immunoglobulin levels in the blood or saliva of the patients. However, only 25 percent of the swimmers treated with bovine colostrum reported upper respiratory tract symptoms, while 61 percent of the placebo treated swimmers reported symptoms.

The authors concluded that bovine colostrum supplementation had no effect on immunoglobulin levels and thus does not provide added defense against upper respiratory tract symptoms. Contrary to evidence, however, swimmers supplemented with bovine colostrum did report fewer upper respiratory tract symptoms. Additional research is necessary before conclusions can be made.

For more information about bovine colostrum, please visit Natural Standard's Foods, Herbs & Supplements database.

References

Crooks C, Cross ML, Wall C, et al. Effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on respiratory tract mucosal defenses in swimmers. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2010 Jun;20(3):224-35. View Abstract
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