Lactoferrin
Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring protein found in milk, renowned for its antimicrobial properties and immunomodulatory capabilities.
What is Lactoferrin?
We have all heard mother's milk is the ultimate human nutrition source. Lactoferrin is literally one of the very first nutrients you receive in your life, as it's an abundant protein found in mother’s and cow’s milk. It's also present in various secretory fluids such as saliva, tears, and nasal secretions.
This multifaceted protein acts as a protective barrier and plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the body against external threats and is present in various tissues. While the body internally produces lactoferrin, it can be acquired through oral intake, to fortify the body's defence mechanisms.
Numerous preclinical studies suggest that different types of this protein and its derivatives might assist the body's regenerative functions. They could facilitate the mending of bone, cartilage, tendons, wound healing, and other processes.
Lactoferrin Benefits
- Immunity: Lactoferrin is a natural immune-supporting nutrient that can enhance the immune system in different ways. It can boost natural killer (NK) cells, and it's shown to have antiviral capabilities. It may inhibit virus replication within cells, limiting virus's spread and severity. Lactoferrin can help combat common cold, flu, hepatitis B and C, herpes, and more.
- GI health: Lactoferrin helps the gastrointestinal (GI) tract health by promoting beneficial bacterial flora growth in the intestines.
- Bone health: Research shows that lactoferrin gives bones the instructions they need to both reduce bone loss and increase the building of new bone. In one study, a lactoferrin product increased markers of bone-forming activity by 24% more than a placebo!
- Eyes: Lactoferrin can help prevent post-cataract surgery "dry eyes", improving tear quality and quantity.
- Cellular/DNA health: Studies suggest that lactoferrin can promote cellular regeneration helping the body heal and repair itself.
Lactoferrin Supplement
Lactoferrin presents a versatile solution with a diverse array of benefits. A typical dose of 300 mg taken once or twice daily serves as an effective supplementation regimen. Easily absorbed through oral intake, lactoferrin assumes a crucial role in reinforcing the body's defenses against viral illnesses.
Clinical studies have shown that oral intake of lactoferrin by healthy individuals results in reduced symptom onset for common cold and gastroenteritis. Furthermore, research reveals that lactoferrin supplementation mitigates the severity and incidence of viral gastroenteritis symptoms.