Dr. Al Danenberg ● Nutritional Periodontist
November 21, 2021
Print Article
This may be a game changer for me!
I have been researching the benefits of bovine colostrum for health and wellness in humans. And the science is impressive.
In the Bovine Colostrum References at the end of this article, I list 10 URL links to peer-reviewed papers, which describe these benefits. Some of them touch on cancer.
However, colostrum is not the miracle some think it is. Many other lifestyle changes and diet cleanup are critical for colostrum to assist in overall wellness.
And because of that, I have made bovine colostrum an integral part of my updated Unconventional Cancer Protocols.
Colostrum is the concentrated, nutritionally packed, first-milk from mom. It is a whole food which integrates with everything else I am doing for myself. As you read the medical papers I cite in the Bovine Colostrum References, you’ll understand why I’m excited about bovine colostrum and its potential benefits for me.
Here is an anecdotal story of the benefits of colostrum from a patient with a life-threatening cancer. However, this is not a published Case Report, and it does not document any confounding or conflating issues relating to his personal cancer story. Still, this is very interesting …
Anecdotal Story
I read about a healthcare professional who was diagnosed in 2017 with pancreatic cancer. I’ll name him, Stephen. Stephen underwent a surgical procedure to remove the cancerous tumor on the head of his pancreas and started chemo two weeks after the surgery. But he reportedly stopped the treatment because of the side effects.
He tried several dietary changes with herbs and supplements but then developed SIBO, skin rashes, and a dysbiotic gut.
A PET Scan revealed he had lung lesions that metastasized from his malignant pancreatic tumor.
Stephen learned about colostrum in 2018 and began his own experiment. He stated that he started eating 2 tablespoons of bovine colostrum, four times a day. That’s a lot!
After several weeks of eating colostrum, he allegedly resolved his SIBO. After 3 months, he noted that his energy levels increased. And by the end of 2018, another lung biopsy was taken, which he described as free of cancer cells.
At the age of 69 in 2020, Stephen claimed to be cancer free. As I understand, he continues today to see his oncologist regularly and has necessary tests which continue to confirm that he is cancer free.
Unfortunately, I have no way to confirm the medical truth of Stephen’s results.
My N=1 Experiment
The previous story and many others I have researched are encouraging. As I have said many times, if I learn something that makes sense to me but has not been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, I am not reluctant to experiment on myself. That makes me a study of N=1.
Now, I am aggressively taking colostrum and will monitor my results moving forward.
After I did my research and investigation, I selected Bovine Colostrum-6 as my go-to colostrum. This 3rd party analysis of the nutrients in Colostrum-6 is very impressive. If you do your own research, make sure you settle on 100% colostrum which is collected from cattle within a few hours after giving birth to their calves. It is critical that it is minimally processed.
The bovine colostrum powder I have selected is from US grass-fed cattle and inherently includes over 100 bioactive factors. Nothing is added and nothing is removed except water. It is essential for the colostrum to be as true to its biological composition as possible. Bovine Colostrum-6 is collected within 6 hours of calving.
If the colostrum is processed in any way to add something artificial, to remove a necessary nutrient, or to cause damage to its delicate proteins, then the colostrum will not function as a whole-food nutrient.
Colostrum-6 is marketed by Anovite, which is a multi-level marketing company. But you can purchase it as a regular customer. If you ate 1 tablespoon 3 times day, then one 2-pound tub is enough for a month.
(Individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance may not be able to consume colostrum. However, some of my clients who have a lactose intolerance have been able to slowly increase their consumption of colostrum with no lactose problem by starting with only 1/2 teaspoon per day until their desired dose is reached. If necessary, a lactase enzyme supplement can be taken with the colostrum to take care of the minimal lactose in the colostrum.)
For me to benefit the most from colostrum, I eat it in a special way.
How I Eat Colostrum:
Many of the biologically active components in colostrum are absorbed into the blood stream directly through the mucosal tissues in the mouth. So, I eat it rather than taking capsules of it. In addition, the direct contact of colostrum with my teeth and gums potentially assists in healing mouth tissues.
The bioactive proteins in colostrum are resistant to stomach acid. So, after swallowing the colostrum, it will enter the rest of the digestive system unaltered. Protease inhibitors in colostrum protect the colostrum from being digested before its nutrients are properly absorbed and functioning in the gut and the rest of the body tissues.
Colostrum should be eaten at least a half-hour before a meal to maximize its biological activity.
It is reported that many people eat a tablespoon or more of colostrum two or three times daily to assist in healing, athletic performance, or anti-aging benefits. Anecdotally, I understand that some medically compromised individuals consume as much as 14 tablespoons daily.
The case reports I have read suggest that the benefits are more significant with increasing dosage and the regular consumption over time.
My Daily Dosing:
As an individual with bone marrow cancer, I am not the average guy who is trying to stay healthy or trying to get healthy. My battle and challenges are more than most people must deal with.
So, my N=1 experiment eating bovine colostrum will be more aggressive than most others. But I cannot recommend this as a protocol for anyone else. This is my personal experiment, and I will continue to update my progress.
I eat 2 tablespoons of colostrum, 3 times a day. The following chart shows the nutrient composition of eating 6 tablespoons daily:
I don’t mix the colostrum in hot liquids since the heat could destroy some of the active components. However, the fat content in Colostrum-6 is 18-22% of total solids, which helps to prevent hot liquids from damaging the delicate proteins. I mix the powder in some room temperature natural spring water to the consistency of a “custard” and eat it with a spoon. Personally, I love the taste and texture; my wife does not.
At this dosage, I need about two, 2-pound tubs of Colostrum-6 a month. (One, 2-pound tub has approximately 99 tablespoons of powder.)
Here’s when I eat colostrum …
- I eat my first 2 tablespoons of colostrum on an empty stomach, at least an hour before my first meal. I usually eat my first meal in the early afternoon.
- In the late afternoon, I eat 2 tablespoons a few hours after my meal or at least a half-hour before any other food.
- Just before bed, I eat 2 tablespoons on a relatively empty stomach.
One Month Results:
After eating Colostrum-6 for a month, I noticed 2 physical changes that are interesting. I believe these are related to colostrum assisting in the removal of toxic elements from my body, but I can’t prove it. Toxic elements are removed via the excretory system, which consists of the skin, liver, lungs, large intestine, and kidneys.
- For years, I used to have excess mucus every morning that lasted 30 minutes or so. I had to keep clearing my throat. Then it would go away until the next morning. After starting the colostrum, all the morning phlegm is no longer there!
- At the age of 74, I can’t remember how many decades it has been since I had acne. But once I started eating colostrum, I broke out with acne on my back, chest, neck, and face. My guess is that the colostrum is assisting in the removal of toxic substances through my skin. Once again, I can’t prove it. The acne has almost disappeared after a month.
72-Hour Colostrum Fast:
I’ve completed several 72-hour, water-only fasts in the past with great success. I am going to try a 72-hour, colostrum & water-only fast.
I’ll eat two tablespoons of Colostrum-6, three times a day. I’ll only drink natural spring water, replete with trace minerals. In addition, I’ll report my results and monitor my blood ketone levels as I have done with previous fasts.
Blood Results:
My oncologist will draw blood and run tests for a CBC (complete blood count) and a CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel) monthly as well as blood immunofluorescent tests to evaluate dysfunctional antibodies every 2-3 months. In a future Blog, I will report my blood work results and any other physical changes from my “N=1 Experiment” with Colostrum-6.
My Expectations
I don’t expect miracles. All along my cancer journey I have emphasized the importance of my quality of life. In addition, I have never claimed to have a cure for cancer or for any chronic disease. But I believe and expect bovine colostrum to become a major whole-food source that will continue to enhance my immune system and assist my body to heal. It is a perfect addition to my Unconventional Cancer Protocols.
Bovine Colostrum References
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.651721/full
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.604080/full
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7222082/
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.01100/full
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0202929
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/6/1956/htm
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312294769_A_Review_on_Anticancer_Property_of_Colostrum
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8471956/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0899900700005529?via%3Dihub
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5767837/
Schedule a ”30-Minute Free Consult” with me to answer some of your questions and determine if we are a good fit for a coaching program! CLICK HERE.
If you don’t want to miss out on new posts, sign up for my “Belly Bites” Newsletter HERE.
FAQs
Does bovine colostrum really work? ›
Colostrum promotes growth and health in infants and newborn animals, but research shows that taking bovine colostrum supplements may promote immunity, help fight infections, and improve gut health throughout life.
What are the benefits of taking bovine colostrum? ›Bovine colostrum protects a newborn calf from infections as it adjusts to life outside of the mother's womb. In human uses, bovine colostrum is good for maintaining health and preventing disease. Proteins and peptides. The protein content in bovine colostrum is 15%, much higher than the 3% found in mature cow's milk.
Can humans consume bovine colostrum? ›Bovine colostrum has been used for human consumption due to the high concentrations of bioactive proteins, vitamins, minerals, growth factors, as well as free and conjugated oligosaccharides.
Does bovine colostrum cause diarrhea? ›Precautions: Bovine colostrum supplements can be high in fat and the milk sugar lactose, which is difficult for lactose-intolerant people to digest. Side effects are rare but include bloating, nausea and diarrhea.
What are the side effects of bovine colostrum? ›While most people don't experience any side effects from bovine colostrum, there have been rare reports of problems in HIV-positive people such as nausea, vomiting, abnormal liver function tests, and decreased red blood cells.
How long does it take for bovine colostrum to work? ›Regardless of how colostrum is consumed, it should be taken approximately 20 minutes before a person eats to achieve the best-possible results. Meanwhile, people sometimes notice the benefits of colostrum within about four to six weeks of initial use.
Does colostrum heal the gut? ›“Research shows that colostrum can restore a leaky gut lining to normal permeability levels, and reduce movement of toxins and gut microbes into the bloodstream.”
Is colostrum good for your liver? ›The beneficial effects of hyperimmune colostrums were associated with an increase in the number of splenic NKT cells. These data suggest that oral administration of hyperimmune colostrum preparations can alleviate chronic inflammation, liver injury and insulin resistance associated with NASH.
Does colostrum help hair growth? ›The transition of hair follicles from telogen to anagen phase is the key to regulating hair growth, which relies heavily on the activation of DP cells. In this paper, we suggested exosomes derived from bovine colostrum (milk exosomes, Milk-exo) as a new effective non-surgical therapy for hair loss.
Does bovine colostrum contain estrogen? ›Bovine colostrum contains trace amounts of naturally occurring estrogen (20) (21). Therefore, patients with hormone-sensitive cancers should discuss this product with their physicians before consumption. In addition, individuals allergic to dairy products should avoid this product.
Is colostrum good for high blood pressure? ›
The results of many studies have linked increased consumption of milk and milk products with lower blood pressure and reduced risk of hypertension. The intake of several minerals found in milk has been demonstrated to have an inverse relationship with blood pressure.
Is colostrum better than collagen? ›In other words, it has more of a probiotic effect than collagen, really. He adds that “Colostrum naturally contains important and diverse probiotics important to gut health and contains immune and growth factors.
Does bovine colostrum help inflammation? ›Bovine colostrum has shown some promising results in reducing inflammation and symptoms in both animals and humans. In murine models of colitis, BC and its components have been shown to prevent or reduce chemically induced colitis [39,41,42,43,44,45].
Can I take colostrum before bed? ›When to Take Colostrum. Sovereign Laboratories recommends taking colostrum twice a day — once upon rising, 30 minutes before breakfast, and once before bedtime and at least two hours after the last meal of the day. Similarly, infants and toddlers should take colostrum at least twice a day.
Is colostrum good for autoimmune? ›Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases PRP from colostrum can work as a regulatory substance of the thymus gland. It has been demonstrated to improve or eliminate symptomatology of both allergies and autoimmune diseases (MS, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and myasthenia gravis).
Does colostrum make you gain weight? ›Colostrum supplementation has been shown to help increase lean body mass. Increased energy expenditure increases weight loss. Colostrum has a role to play in weight loss.
Is colostrum good for older adults? ›Colostrum supplementation during strength training was beneficial for increasing leg press strength in older adults and may have benefits for reducing bone resorption. Both colostrum and whey protein groups improved upper body strength, muscle thickness, lean tissue mass, and cognitive function.
When should you take colostrum? ›Colostrum will probably be more effective on an empty stomach; ideally we suggest taking it about 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a regular meal. That said, it's fine to take colostrum when you have other food on board. Healthy adult, for general maintenance and support supplement with 1 – 3 g per day.
Does colostrum detox the body? ›An effective detoxification agent, lactoferrin contained in colostrum prevents invasive agents found in our everyday environment such as water and food supply from being pushed into lymph nodes. As a result, colostrum may decrease the duration of a cold.
How much colostrum should you take daily? ›While there is no standard dosage defined when it comes to taking colostrum, some studies show that taking 500 to 2000 milligrams per day can be beneficial. The amount taken daily can be divided and taken twice a day as well.
Does colostrum increase collagen? ›
Colostrum, on the other hand, is something applied to your skin for its many benefits. One such benefit may even be an increase in the appearance of collagen, so that, in a way, colostrum and collagen are two parts of a skin-enhancing process.
Does colostrum help poop? ›Colostrum Has a Laxative Effect
Colostrum has another purpose in the early days after birth; it helps your baby to poo!
In conclusion, our trial demonstrated that colostrum supplementation decreased previously elevated intestinal permeability and was able to restore it to a predetermined normal limit within less than 3 weeks of relatively mild supplementation.
Is colostrum anti-inflammatory? ›Bovine colostrum demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity in in vitro models of intestinal inflammation and infection.
Does colostrum help arthritis? ›Colostrum is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound which can significantly benefit arthritis sufferers, and it can help heal inflammation of the gut which has been linked to some forms of arthritis.
Is colostrum same as collagen? ›Collagen is a protein in the human body, found naturally in bones, muscle, teeth, and hair, while colostrum is derived from the first bovine milkings after the delivery of a calf.
Does colostrum help with allergies? ›Bovine colostrum contains anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Studies show that reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines and the presence of IgG-allergen immune complexes in colostrum can prevent subsequent sensitization which may contribute to its beneficial effect in allergic diseases.
Does colostrum increase testosterone? ›6. Although supplementation of colostrum for eight days in sprinters and jumpers failed to increase serum testosterone levels, another study noted that colostrum attenuated reductions in testosterone levels during an intense five day road race in highly-trained male cyclists.
Does bovine colostrum cause acne? ›Cow's milk may lead to acne breakouts
While cow's milk (but not milkshakes) is a low-glycemic beverage, some studies suggest that drinking this type of milk may be linked to an increase in acne breakouts. In these studies, all types of cow's milk (whole, low-fat, and skim) have been linked to acne.
Further, milk proteins are considered a “complete protein” source owing to their amino acid profile, and high protein digestibility, especially of whey proteins (42), though colostrum contains higher concentrations of immunoglobulins which are less digestible (Table 1).
Does colostrum build muscle? ›
Bovine colostrum supplementation has been shown to increase lean tissue (muscle mass) in younger individuals. Eight to 12 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation during a resistance training program increased lean tissue mass by 1.5 to 2 kg compared to increases of 0 to 1.2 kg while on whey protein supplementation.
Does colostrum have vitamin K? ›1.1.
Colostrum is rich in developmental factors, such as epidermal growth factor, as well as immunologic components, such as secretory IgA, lactoferrin, leukocytes [7,8,9]. In addition, it contains high amounts of protein, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and vitamin K [10], and low levels of lactose.
Conclusions. Ingestion of standard recommended doses of colostrum does not increase IGF-1 levels in healthy adults, providing additional support for the safety profile of colostrum ingestion.
Does colostrum affect cholesterol? ›Additionally, colostrum has been shown to lower LDL-cholesterol while increasing HDL-cholesterol concentrations, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Does colostrum help the heart? ›The growth factors present in colostrum help in reparation and regeneration of heart muscle and also for new blood vessels for collateral coronary circulation (Gauthier et al., 2006).
Is colostrum good for diabetes? ›Numerous studies show that the administration of colostrum benefits the subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus as it gradually regulates appetite, improves utilization of nutrients, especially glucose, and leads to a significant decrease in body fat.
Does colostrum make you look younger? ›Colostrum has many benefits and is perfect for individuals who are just starting to experience the signs of aging. With regular use, colostrum products may help lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
How long can you take colostrum for? ›Colostrum: Your first milk that lasts between two and four days after birth. Transitional milk: Begins approximately four days after birth and lasts about two weeks. Mature milk: Milk that lasts from approximately 14 days after birth until you are done producing milk.
Is colostrum good for your bones? ›Colostrum is a complex mixture of bioactives that promotes neonate growth. Studies show that it contains components capable of promoting bone formation and inhibiting bone resorption.
Does colostrum detox the body? ›An effective detoxification agent, lactoferrin contained in colostrum prevents invasive agents found in our everyday environment such as water and food supply from being pushed into lymph nodes. As a result, colostrum may decrease the duration of a cold.
Is colostrum better than collagen? ›
In other words, it has more of a probiotic effect than collagen, really. He adds that “Colostrum naturally contains important and diverse probiotics important to gut health and contains immune and growth factors.
Does colostrum help autoimmune disease? ›The PRP in colostrum has been demonstrated to reduce or eliminate the pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with allergies and autoimmune diseases. These effects are related to PRP's ability to inhibit the overproduction of lymphocytes and T-cells.
Can I take colostrum before bed? ›When to Take Colostrum. Sovereign Laboratories recommends taking colostrum twice a day — once upon rising, 30 minutes before breakfast, and once before bedtime and at least two hours after the last meal of the day. Similarly, infants and toddlers should take colostrum at least twice a day.
Does colostrum affect the liver? ›The beneficial effects of hyperimmune colostrums were associated with an increase in the number of splenic NKT cells. These data suggest that oral administration of hyperimmune colostrum preparations can alleviate chronic inflammation, liver injury and insulin resistance associated with NASH.
Does colostrum heal your gut? ›“Research shows that colostrum can restore a leaky gut lining to normal permeability levels, and reduce movement of toxins and gut microbes into the bloodstream.”
Does colostrum help poop? ›Colostrum Has a Laxative Effect
Colostrum has another purpose in the early days after birth; it helps your baby to poo!
Colostrum has many benefits and is perfect for individuals who are just starting to experience the signs of aging. With regular use, colostrum products may help lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
Does colostrum help hair growth? ›The transition of hair follicles from telogen to anagen phase is the key to regulating hair growth, which relies heavily on the activation of DP cells. In this paper, we suggested exosomes derived from bovine colostrum (milk exosomes, Milk-exo) as a new effective non-surgical therapy for hair loss.
How long can you take colostrum for? ›Colostrum: Your first milk that lasts between two and four days after birth. Transitional milk: Begins approximately four days after birth and lasts about two weeks. Mature milk: Milk that lasts from approximately 14 days after birth until you are done producing milk.
Does colostrum help joints? ›Colostrum is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound which can significantly benefit arthritis sufferers, and it can help heal inflammation of the gut which has been linked to some forms of arthritis.
Does colostrum reduce inflammation? ›
Bovine colostrum has shown some promising results in reducing inflammation and symptoms in both animals and humans. In murine models of colitis, BC and its components have been shown to prevent or reduce chemically induced colitis [39,41,42,43,44,45].
Is colostrum good for joints? ›The results strongly suggest that colostrum from immunized cows may have anti-inflammatory activity in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis.
How much colostrum should you take daily? ›While there is no standard dosage defined when it comes to taking colostrum, some studies show that taking 500 to 2000 milligrams per day can be beneficial. The amount taken daily can be divided and taken twice a day as well.
How long does it take colostrum to heal leaky gut? ›In conclusion, our trial demonstrated that colostrum supplementation decreased previously elevated intestinal permeability and was able to restore it to a predetermined normal limit within less than 3 weeks of relatively mild supplementation.
Does colostrum help you lose weight? ›Colostrum supplementation has been shown to help increase lean body mass. Increased energy expenditure increases weight loss. Colostrum has a role to play in weight loss.