Colostrum is a natural ingredient that provides vital components to assist our bodies in dealing with health-related issues. The immune function components of colostrum are one of the top reasons many people make it a part of their daily supplement intake — today, we dive into how exactly colostrum supports immune systems.

Before we proceed, let’s make sure everyone is clear on the term immunoglobulins (Ig): immunoglobulins are also known as antibodies. These antibodies are used by the immune system to identify, attack, and neutralize foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses. Absorption of immunoglobulins is essential for the passive immunity of neonatal mammals after birth… In other words, this is one of the reasons doctors may encourage breastfeeding at birth — to help support a baby’s fragile immune system in those first few days and weeks. But the support doesn’t have to end there. Taking colostrum supplements at any age will enhance your health with these protectors that you probably didn’t even know that you were missing:

IgG: The “head honcho” immunoglobulin — bovine colostrum has more IgG than any other immunoglobulin. This is important because IgG helps to protect against invading pathogens, while at the same time initiating other immune functions.

IgA:  found in areas like the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urogenital tracts, this immunoglobulin plays a critical role in mucosal immunity by preventing specific pathogens from colonizing.

IgM:  the first responder to pathogens entering the body.  Attacks bacteria, rendering them inactive.

IgE:  plays an important role in allergic reactions and aids in the response to parasites in the digestive system.

IgD:  works closely with IgM to send a signal to B cells to activate them. Once active, they begin to participate with other immunoglobulins to support the immune system.

Cytokines:  colostrum contains many of these biological response modifiers. These can be protein, peptide, or glycoprotein signaling molecules that are used in cellular communications. Cytokines have a specific role as regulators of epithelial cell growth and development, including intestinal inflammation and epithelial restoration following mucosal damage. They are also important mediators in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses.

Lactoferrin:  an iron-binding glycoprotein that fights bacteria and fungi in the body, by binding metal ions which are necessary bacterial metabolites, making them unavailable for bacterial development. Lactoferrin has been shown to inhibit the growth of specific microbes like E. coli and Salmonella.

Lysozyme:  antibacterial enzymes that help to support the immune system by disrupting the cell walls of harmful bacteria.

Lactalbumin:  important nutrient and water-soluble protein found in milk which contains essential amino acids necessary for body growth and development.

Lactoperoxidase:  a major antibacterial enzyme found in colostrum. Protects the lactating mammary gland from infections.

Proline Rich Polypeptides (PRPs):  small chains of amino acids that have a powerful effect in initiating and balancing immune responses.

Supporting your immune system is becoming more and more important — and colostrum is a natural way to do that. You can find all of our different colostrum products here! We provide many different kinds to best fit your lifestyle and needs.

What surprised you most about the immune function components of colostrum? Let us know in the comments below!