Immune System Protection with Colostrum

Immune System Protection with Colostrum
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What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the first secretion that comes from the mammary gland of a female after giving birth. Colostrum is the first food for newborns and it provides immunity from certain infections. It is considered nature’s perfect food. Unfortunately many people do not receive colostrum right after they are born. For some, their mothers may choose not to breastfeed, for others, they may be born with problems that need immediate attention and are not able to breastfeed for a while. Even if a person received colostrum right after birth, their body can still benefit from additional colostrum later in life to boost the immune system.

The colostrum you take as a supplement later in life generally comes from a bovine source and is safe for everyone except those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Bovine colostrum has been shown to be non-species specific which means the immune system compounds can work in humans also. Supplementing with bovine colostrum has been part of Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years.

Components of Colostrum

Colostrum contains specific immunoglobulins (antibodies) IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD and IgE. It is a good source of nonspecific proteins like Thymosin Alpha1 and B4, Lactoferrin, Insulin, Insulin-like Growth Factor, and others that are important for resisting disease. It also contains vitamins A, B12 and E, as well as oligosaccharides and arabinogalactan.

Effects on the Immune System

Colostrum supports healthy immune function and aids the body in resisting the attack of toxins. As we get older, our bodies have worked hard to fight disease and toxins. Over time we produce less of the immune defenses and they need to be replaced.

The different components of colostrum work as follows:

  • Immunoglobulin G (IgG) fights bacteria and toxins in the blood and lymphatic system. It also inhibits the growth of pathogens.
  • Immunoglobulin M (IgM) finds viruses in the circulatory system and attaches to them.
  • Immunoglobulin A (IgA) protects the digestive and respiratory tracts from microbial attack. It may also protect the urinary tract.
  • Immunoglobulins E and D (IgE and IgD) target viruses in the body.
  • The other immunoglobulins function as antibodies and stimulate the immune system.
  • Lactoferrin transports iron to red blood cells and has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antitumor properties. It is also found in white blood cells.
  • Vitamins A, B12 and E are essential to maintain a healthy immune system.
  • Oligosaccharides prevent bacteria from attaching to the mucous membranes. They can also attract and bind harmful microbes.
  • Arabinogalactan feeds the friendly bacteria in the gut which helps to maintain a healthy immune system.

Since cancer is a disease of the immune system, when colostrum enhances your immune system it may also be preventing some cancers. Colostrum can also help you enjoy your life more as you are able to resist diseases. Supplementing with bovine colostrum to protect your immune system has been found safe for humans.

References

Colostrum: https://www.colostrum.com/index.html

Colostrum is a proven, effective immune system booster: https://www.naturalnews.com/009912_Colostrum_immune_system_transfer_factors.html

Disclaimer

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