Bovine Colostrum Benefits: What the Science Says
Bovine colostrum is the nutrient-dense first milk produced by cows within 24–72 hours of giving birth. Rich in immunoglobulins (IgG), growth factors, lactoferrin, and bioactive peptides, colostrum has become one of the fastest-growing supplements in the world — with US sales surging over 3,000% in just two years.
But does the science support the hype? In this guide, we break down what the research actually says about bovine colostrum benefits — from gut health and immunity to athletic recovery — so you can make an informed decision.
In This Guide
- What Is Bovine Colostrum?
- Key Nutrients in Colostrum
- Colostrum for Gut Health
- Colostrum for Immune Support
- Colostrum for Athletes and Recovery
- Other Potential Benefits
- Colostrum vs Whey Protein
- How Much Colostrum Should You Take?
- Are There Any Side Effects?
- Why New Zealand Colostrum?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Bovine Colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is the first form of milk produced by cows immediately after giving birth, before regular breast milk begins. Often called "liquid gold" for its deep yellow colour, colostrum contains concentrated levels of antibodies, growth factors, vitamins, and minerals designed to give newborn calves immune protection and nutritional support during their first days of life.
What makes colostrum unique compared to regular milk is its concentration. The protein content of bovine colostrum is three to four times higher than regular cow's milk — up to 150 grams per litre compared to 30–40 grams per litre. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) alone makes up approximately 75% of the whey proteins in colostrum.
Humans have used bovine colostrum for centuries. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been consumed for thousands of years for its healing properties. Today, modern science is catching up — with clinical research exploring its potential benefits for gut health, immune function, athletic performance, and more.
What Nutrients Are in Bovine Colostrum?
Bovine colostrum contains a complex mix of bioactive compounds not found in regular dairy products. Here are the key components that make it nutritionally unique:
| Component | What It Does | Concentration in Colostrum |
|---|---|---|
| Immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM) | Antibodies that neutralise pathogens and support immune defence | 20–25% IgG (vs <1% in regular milk) |
| Lactoferrin | Iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties | 1.5–5 mg/mL (vs 0.1 mg/mL in milk) |
| Growth Factors (IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-β) | Support tissue repair, muscle growth, and gut lining integrity | Significantly higher than mature milk |
| Proline-Rich Polypeptides (PRPs) | Help regulate the immune system (both stimulate and calm immune response) | Unique to colostrum |
| Oligosaccharides | Act as prebiotics, feeding beneficial gut bacteria | Higher than mature milk |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Including vitamins A, B12, D, E, plus zinc, iron, copper, magnesium | Higher concentration than regular milk |
Sources: Playford & Weiser, Nutrients (2021); Bagwe et al., Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine (2015)
Does Colostrum Help with Gut Health?
Yes — gut health is one of the most researched areas for bovine colostrum, with multiple studies showing it may help reduce intestinal permeability (commonly known as "leaky gut"), support the gut microbiome, and reduce gastrointestinal inflammation.
Reducing Intestinal Permeability ("Leaky Gut")
When the tight junctions between cells in the gut lining weaken, larger molecules can pass through — a condition known as increased intestinal permeability or "leaky gut." This has been linked to inflammation, food sensitivities, and various digestive issues.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Nutrients found that athletes who supplemented with 500mg of bovine colostrum daily for 20 days showed significantly reduced intestinal permeability. At baseline, 75% of participants had elevated permeability markers — after supplementation, their values returned to normal range.
The bioactive compounds responsible appear to be the growth factors (particularly TGF-β and IGF-1) and lactoferrin, which help strengthen the gut cell lining and maintain the tight junction proteins that keep the gut barrier intact.
Supporting the Gut Microbiome
The oligosaccharides in bovine colostrum act as natural prebiotics — feeding beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium while inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens like E. coli. Lactoferrin also plays a dual role: it stimulates the growth of good bacteria while starving harmful bacteria of the iron they need to survive.
Gastrointestinal Conditions
Research has explored bovine colostrum's potential in several GI conditions. A comprehensive 2021 review in Nutrients found evidence of beneficial effects in gastrointestinal infections, infectious diarrhoea, drug-induced gut damage (particularly from NSAIDs), gut-barrier malfunction, and inflammatory bowel disease. In animal studies, colostrum reduced gastrointestinal injury by 30–60% after NSAID administration.
Sources: Hałasa et al., Nutrients (2017); Playford & Weiser, Nutrients (2021); Davison, Nutrients (2022)
Can Colostrum Boost Your Immune System?
Bovine colostrum contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins — particularly IgG — that can help support the body's natural immune defences. Research suggests it may be especially useful during periods of physical stress, seasonal changes, or for those with compromised immunity.
Upper Respiratory Infections
One of the strongest areas of evidence for colostrum is in reducing upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). A randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial in medical students found that even moderate-dose bovine colostrum supplementation (500mg daily for 60 days) helped reduce the occurrence of respiratory infections during peak illness season.
How It Works
Unlike standard immune-boosting supplements that simply "ramp up" immune activity, colostrum works through multiple mechanisms. The immunoglobulins directly neutralise pathogens in the gut (where approximately 70% of the immune system resides). The proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs) help regulate immune function — stimulating an underactive immune system while calming an overactive one. Lactoferrin provides additional antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
This regulatory approach is one reason colostrum is considered suitable for long-term supplementation — it supports balanced immune function rather than simply over-stimulating it.
Sources: Saad et al., Nutrients (2020); Główka et al., Nutrients (2023)
Is Colostrum Good for Athletes?
Bovine colostrum has attracted significant interest in sports nutrition due to its growth factors, immune compounds, and potential to support recovery. Research suggests it may help reduce exercise-induced gut damage, support lean muscle development, and lower infection risk during heavy training periods.
Muscle and Body Composition
An eight-week supplementation trial by Antonio et al. found that the bovine colostrum group experienced a significantly greater increase in lean body mass compared to the whey protein group. Additional studies in older adults showed improvements in upper body strength, muscle thickness, and bone mineral content.
Exercise-Induced Gut Issues
Intense exercise — particularly endurance activities in hot conditions — can significantly increase gut permeability. A study of runners found that those taking colostrum experienced less gastrointestinal distress, especially when training in hot, humid conditions. This is particularly relevant for endurance athletes, marathon runners, and those who experience "runner's gut."
Immune Protection During Training
Heavy training loads can temporarily suppress immune function, leaving athletes vulnerable to illness. The immunoglobulins and lactoferrin in colostrum help maintain immune defences during these demanding periods, potentially reducing missed training days.
Sources: Antonio et al., Nutrition (2001); Buckley et al., European Journal of Applied Physiology (2009); Jones et al., Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (2019)
What Other Benefits Does Colostrum Have?
Beyond gut health, immunity, and athletic performance, preliminary research suggests bovine colostrum may offer additional benefits, though these areas require more study:
Skin health and anti-ageing: The growth factors in colostrum (particularly IGF-1 and TGF-β) may support skin cell renewal and wound healing. Some preliminary studies suggest potential benefits for skin repair, though more human clinical trials are needed.
Bone health: Studies in older adults have shown that bovine colostrum supplementation may help reduce bone resorption (breakdown), potentially supporting bone mineral density alongside resistance exercise.
Children's health: For growing children, colostrum provides concentrated nutrients, growth factors, and immune support. It has been traditionally used in many cultures as a nutritional supplement for children's development and immune resilience.
Traveller's health: Some research suggests colostrum may help reduce the incidence of traveller's diarrhoea, particularly from E. coli exposure — making it a practical consideration for frequent travellers.
Colostrum vs Whey Protein: What's the Difference?
Colostrum and whey protein both come from cow's milk, but they serve very different purposes as supplements. Here's how they compare:
| Factor | Bovine Colostrum | Whey Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Source | First milk after birth (24–72 hours) | By-product of cheese-making |
| Primary Use | Immune support, gut health, recovery | Muscle protein synthesis, recovery |
| Immunoglobulins (IgG) | 20–25% | Minimal (<1%) |
| Growth Factors | Rich in IGF-1, IGF-2, TGF-β | Minimal |
| Lactoferrin | High concentration | Low concentration |
| BCAAs (Leucine) | Present but lower | High concentration |
| Best For | Immune health, gut repair, overall wellness | Post-workout muscle building |
| Typical Dose | 500mg–3g daily (capsules) or 10–20g (powder) | 20–25g per serving |
Can you take both? Yes. Many athletes and health-conscious individuals take whey protein for muscle building and bovine colostrum for immune and gut support. They work well together — colostrum on an empty stomach in the morning, whey protein after workouts.
How Much Colostrum Should You Take?
The optimal dosage of bovine colostrum depends on your health goals and the form you're taking. While no standard clinical dosage has been formally established, research and practitioner recommendations suggest the following ranges:
| Goal | Suggested Daily Dose | Duration Studied |
|---|---|---|
| General immune support | 500mg–1,000mg (1–2 capsules) | 8–12 weeks |
| Gut health maintenance | 1–3g daily | 4–12 weeks |
| Athletic performance | 10–20g powder daily | 8–12 weeks |
| Intensive gut repair | 10–20g powder daily | 4–8 weeks |
Tips for Best Results
Take on an empty stomach. For optimal absorption, take colostrum first thing in the morning, at least 20 minutes before eating. This allows the bioactive compounds to reach the gut lining without interference from other foods.
Start gradually. If you're new to colostrum, begin with a lower dose and increase over 1–2 weeks. Some people experience mild digestive adjustment in the first few days.
Be consistent. Benefits are cumulative. Most clinical studies showing results involved supplementation for at least 4–8 weeks. Give it time to work.
Choose the right form. Capsules are convenient for daily immune support doses (500mg–1,500mg). Powder is more practical and cost-effective for higher therapeutic doses (10g+).
Deep Blue Health Colostrum Products
Our colostrum is sourced from 100% pasture-fed New Zealand dairy cows, certified free from hormones and pesticides. Each batch is tested to exceed 20% IgG content.
- 100% Colostrum Capsules — 500mg per capsule, 20% IgG. Take 2–3 capsules daily. Available in 30, 60, or 90 capsule bottles.
- Milk Colostrum Powder (450g) — Ideal for higher doses. Mix into smoothies, water, or take directly. Enhanced with DHA and milk calcium.
- Milk Colostrum Chewable Tablets — Great for those who prefer not to swallow capsules.
- Moo Moo Milk Colostrum Junior — Vanilla-flavoured chewable teddy-bear tablets designed for children's immune and growth support.
Are There Any Side Effects of Colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most adults when taken as directed. Side effects are uncommon, but here's what to be aware of:
Mild digestive effects: Some people may experience temporary bloating, nausea, or loose stools when first starting colostrum. These typically resolve within a few days as your body adjusts. Starting with a lower dose can help.
Dairy allergies: Bovine colostrum is a dairy product. If you have a confirmed allergy to cow's milk proteins, you should not take colostrum supplements. Those with lactose intolerance may tolerate colostrum better than regular milk, as it contains only trace amounts of lactose — but caution is still advised.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There isn't sufficient research to confirm safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your healthcare provider before taking colostrum supplements.
Medication interactions: Colostrum may interact with immunosuppressant medications. If you take any prescription medications, particularly those affecting the immune system, speak with your doctor first.
Overall, bovine colostrum has a strong safety profile. Clinical studies using doses of 10–60g daily for up to 12 weeks have reported no serious adverse events.
Why Is New Zealand Colostrum Considered the Best?
New Zealand bovine colostrum is widely regarded as the gold standard worldwide, and for good reason. Several factors set NZ colostrum apart from colostrum produced in other countries:
Genuinely grass-fed, year-round. Unlike many countries where dairy cows are housed indoors and grain-fed, New Zealand's temperate climate allows cows to graze outdoors on fresh pasture 365 days a year. Grass-fed cows produce colostrum with a superior nutritional profile — higher in beneficial fatty acids, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds.
Hormone and antibiotic free. New Zealand has strict regulations prohibiting the use of growth hormones (rBST/rBGH) in dairy farming. Routine antibiotic use is also tightly controlled, resulting in cleaner, purer colostrum.
World-leading dairy standards. New Zealand is the world's largest dairy exporter and operates under some of the most rigorous quality and food safety standards globally. All colostrum processing facilities must meet GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) standards.
Seasonal calving advantage. New Zealand's dairy industry operates on a seasonal calving system, meaning colostrum is collected during a concentrated period when it's freshest. This contrasts with year-round calving operations in other countries, where colostrum may be collected, frozen, and stored for extended periods before processing.
Traceability. New Zealand's colostrum supply chain is fully traceable — from the farm to the finished product. This level of traceability is rare in the global supplement industry and provides an additional layer of quality assurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between colostrum and regular milk?
Colostrum is the first milk produced by cows within 24–72 hours after giving birth. It contains 3–4 times more protein than regular milk, 20–25% immunoglobulins (vs less than 1% in milk), significantly higher levels of growth factors and lactoferrin, and only trace amounts of lactose. Regular milk is produced after the colostrum phase and has a very different nutritional composition.
Is bovine colostrum safe for people with lactose intolerance?
Bovine colostrum contains only trace amounts of lactose — significantly less than regular milk. Many people with mild lactose intolerance find they can tolerate colostrum without issues, especially in capsule form. However, if you have a severe dairy allergy (to casein or whey proteins), you should avoid colostrum. If in doubt, start with a small dose and consult your healthcare provider.
How long does it take for colostrum to work?
Most people notice initial effects within 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use, particularly for immune and energy benefits. For gut health improvements, clinical studies typically ran for 4–12 weeks before measuring results. Athletic performance benefits have been observed after 8–12 weeks of supplementation. Consistency is key — benefits are cumulative, so daily use over time produces the best results.
Can children take colostrum?
Yes, bovine colostrum is generally considered safe for children and has been used for decades to support children's immune health and development. The immunoglobulins and growth factors in colostrum can be beneficial for growing children, particularly during school terms when they're exposed to more germs. Deep Blue Health offers Moo Moo Milk Colostrum Junior — a chewable, vanilla-flavoured tablet formulated specifically for children. Always consult your child's healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Is colostrum ethical? Does taking it harm calves?
Responsible colostrum collection prioritises the calf's needs first. Calves receive their essential first feeds of colostrum — the surplus that would otherwise be discarded is what's collected for supplement production. In New Zealand, strict animal welfare regulations ensure calves receive adequate colostrum before any is collected for human use. Deep Blue Health only works with farms that follow these ethical collection practices.
Should I take colostrum capsules or powder?
Both forms deliver the same bioactive compounds. Capsules are more convenient for lower daily doses (500mg–1,500mg) — ideal for general immune support. Powder is more practical and cost-effective if you need higher doses (10g+), such as for intensive gut health support or athletic performance. Powder can be mixed into water, smoothies, or taken directly. Choose whichever form you'll take consistently.
What does IgG percentage mean on colostrum supplements?
IgG (Immunoglobulin G) is the primary antibody in bovine colostrum and a key indicator of quality. The IgG percentage tells you how concentrated the immune-active compounds are. Look for colostrum supplements with at least 20% IgG. Higher quality products may exceed this. Deep Blue Health colostrum is manufactured to contain a minimum of 20% IgG, with actual testing typically showing 23% or higher at the time of manufacture.
References
- Shen RL, et al. "Early gradual feeding with bovine colostrum improves gut function and NEC resistance relative to infant formula in preterm pigs." American Journal of Physiology – Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology. 2015;309(5):G310–23. PMID: 26138468
- Uusküla A, et al. "Cluster randomised, controlled, triple-blind trial assessing the efficacy of intranasally administered virus-neutralising bovine colostrum supplement in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection." Trials. 2022;23(1):92. PMID: 35101094
- New Zealand Ministry of Health. "Dietary Supplements." health.govt.nz. Accessed March 2026.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Library of Medicine. "Colostrum — MedlinePlus Supplement Information." nlm.nih.gov. Accessed March 2026.
