A Dietitian Reviews 5 Popular Colostrum Supplements

Recently popularized on social media, colostrum supplements may support the immune system, enhance gut health, and improve athletic performance due to their rich content of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and nutrients. 

While the benefits seem promising, the research on colostrum is quite new. Important factors to consider before adding these supplements to your routine are your personal finances, the effective dose, third-party testing, and any contraindicating health conditions you may have.

We reviewed the most popular colostrum supplements on the market, breaking down the science and helping you understand what is and isn't worth your money.

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What Exactly Is Colostrum? 

Colostrum is the fluid that comes in before a mother's breast milk after she delivers. While colostrum from human moms is a crucial part of development, commercially sold colostrum typically comes from bovine or cattle sources. Colostrum contains immunoglobulins, antibodies, fatty acids, and lipids and is also rich in growth hormones, digestive enzymes, and potentially other vitamins and minerals. To be sold in the U.S. market, colostrum is pasteurized and then dried into a pill or powder for consumption.

Does Colostrum Have Any Health Benefits?

Many companies tout the health benefits of colostrum, claiming it supports the immune system and improves a “leaky” gut. However, these supplements are relatively new to the market, and we do not have conclusive research to substantiate these claims. Most studies involve small sample sizes; many products have not undergone third-party testing.

Even more, the research shows health benefits at an effective dose of 60 grams per day.¹ Most colostrum supplements on the market have serving sizes of 1 to 4 grams. Effectively, it would take a significant serving size (nearly 60 scoops of colostrum) to experience the same results we've seen in the research when you begin supplementing with a colostrum supplement at home. 

How Does Colostrum Affect Gut Health?

Some research suggests that colostrum can strengthen the gut lining and alleviate a condition known as intestinal permeability. Commonly referred to as "leaky gut," intestinal permeability occurs when small particles from digestion leak into the bloodstream. This term is controversial, as researchers disagree on the extent of its impact on health.

Regardless, if you supplement correctly with the effective dose, you may experience improved gut health symptoms. However, when you consider the cost and access to these supplements, there may be other health strategies you implement before reaching for colostrum supplements.

Who Can Benefit From Colostrum Supplements?

If you have a milk allergy, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, avoid taking this supplement. It’s not recommended for children without a pediatrician's approval. Plus, these supplements can be costly and may not be essential for your health. 

Before beginning a new supplement like colostrum, consult your trusted healthcare provider. If you have a gastrointestinal condition, speak with a gastroenterologist to ensure this supplement is appropriate.

<p class="pro-tip"><strong>Learn More: </strong><a href=best-supplement-for-diabetes>10 Best Herbs and Supplements for Diabetes That May Help</a>.</p>

5 Popular Colostrum Supplements

ARMRA

ARMRA Colostrum contains immunoglobulins, antibodies, and growth factors that may enhance immune function and gut health. However, the brand's claims on its website and social media are likely overstated based on the research. Most of the research on colostrum is based on a 60-gram dose, and Amra contains 1 gram per serving, with directions stating to work up to 2 or 3 grams per day.

While some studies suggest benefits for athletic performance, the supplement's high cost and lack of extensive, conclusive research are drawbacks. Additionally, pasteurization might reduce the potency of some compounds naturally occurring in colostrum. Plus, this brand is not third-party testing and raises quality concerns about dosing and purity. 

Despite its promises, the supplement's benefits should be weighed against its cost and the current evidence supporting its use.

Optimal Carnivore

Like other options on the market, Optimal Carnivore Colostrum Supplement contains immunoglobulins, antibodies, growth factors, and prebiotics, which can enhance immune function and gut health.

Its high-quality, grass-fed sourcing is a positive attribute, though pasteurization might reduce the potency of some bioactive compounds. One serving contains 4 g of colostrum, which is more than other popular supplements on the market. Plus, it's higher quality coming from a grass-fed source in New Zealand. We also can appreciate the pre-biotics, which may further support gut health in this product.

The supplement's cost and the general lack of conclusive evidence for colostrum are significant considerations for folks weighing the pros and cons of this supplement. 

WonderCow

WonderCow Colostrum Supplement presents an option for individuals seeking to support their immune system and gut health. It contains a profile of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and growth factors. The company sells creamers, powders, and single-serving sticks, which effectively make the supplement more convenient.

Similar to other colostrum supplements on the market, WonderCow is not third-party tested, and there's no tangible way to verify what is in each serving. However, it does claim to be grass-fed and provides a higher-quality product from cows raised on a farm. 

One serving contains 2 grams of colostrum and added immunoglobulins for immune health. While this product is less expensive than other options on the market, it is largely an additional expense that most consumers may not need, especially considering that the effective dose is nearly 30 times the single serving of WonderCow.

ForestLeaf

ForestLeaf’s Colostrum supplement claims to offer immune support and gut health benefits thanks to its rich content of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and growth factors. However, with 2 grams of colostrum per serving and added immunoglobulins, this serving size is a fraction of the effective dose seen in research. 

While the brand claims to be sourced from pasture-raised cows, specific details regarding sourcing and processing are limited. This lack of transparency and third-party testing may raise concerns about the supplement's quality and potency for some consumers. 

It is one of the more affordable colostrums on the market; however, at $45 per container and about $1 per serving, this is an added expense that isn’t guaranteed to improve your health. 

Double Wood

Packaged in capsules, Double Wood Colostrum Supplement promises better health to individuals seeking immune support and gut health benefits. It contains a rich profile of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and growth factors sourced from grass-fed cows. With 1 gram per two-capsule serving, these claims might be overstated due to the effective dose of colostrum supplements. 

However, we can appreciate that the brand uses a third-party tester to verify the ingredients and dosages in each serving. The supplement is the most affordable on the market, clocking in at nearly $18 per bottle, a fraction of other options that aren’t as high quality. 

Learn More About How to Improve Blood Sugar Health With Signos’ Expert Advice

No magic supplement can improve your health. However, monitoring your blood sugar and the lifestyle influences that affect it can prevent or manage diabetes. 

Recognizing the intricate relationship between blood sugar and energy can enhance your overall health and vitality. With the expert guidance offered by Signos, you can significantly enhance your well-being, whether you aim to optimize your energy levels or simply improve your overall sense of wellness. Dive deeper into nutrition and cultivate healthier habits by exploring Signos' blog, or take a quick quiz to determine if Signos' program aligns with your health goals.

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