Could This “First Milk” Superfood Help Kids Stay Healthy?
If your little one seems to catch every bug that goes around daycare or school, you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. One natural remedy that’s been gaining traction among health-conscious parents? Bovine colostrum.
This early milk from cows, called “liquid gold,” may provide children with unique immune support, especially during cold and flu season. So, what exactly is bovine colostrum?
What Is Bovine Colostrum?
Just like human moms, cows produce colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk after giving birth. It’s loaded with antibodies, immune-boosting compounds, growth factors, and enzymes. In supplement form, bovine colostrum contains many of the same immune-supporting properties as human colostrum, sometimes even more concentrated.
With interest growing, many parents now use colostrum to help strengthen their children’s immune systems. But what does the research actually say?
The Research Behind It
Though still limited, current research is promising:
- In one study, children aged 1–6 who regularly suffered from infections were given 3–6 grams of bovine colostrum daily. After four weeks, those kids experienced fewer respiratory and digestive illnesses than those who didn’t receive it.
- Another randomised controlled trial found that children taking 500 mg/day of bovine colostrum for two months had significantly fewer upper respiratory infections than the placebo group.
- Side effects were minimal, with occasional reports of temporary rash, itchiness, or stomach upset.
That said, it’s not recommended for children with dairy allergies or severe lactose intolerance.
How It May Help Kids
Beyond being just trendy, bovine colostrum is biologically powerful. Let’s look at how it may benefit kids:
- Boost immune response – Rich in immunoglobulins (antibodies), colostrum may help your child’s body fight off pathogens before they take hold.
- Protect gut health – It supports the gut lining, which is essential for overall immunity, without disturbing beneficial bacteria.
- Block viruses – Some studies suggest colostrum may prevent viruses from attaching to respiratory tissues, reducing infection risk.
- Calm inflammation & speed healing – Growth factors may help regulate inflammation and repair tissues, especially after your child has been sick.
How to Use It Safely
If you’re considering bovine colostrum for your child, here’s what to know:
- Form: Usually comes in powder form. Mix with water, juice, or milk.
- Age: Generally used for children 12 months and up.
- Dosage: Varies by brand and age; the typical range is 500mg to 6g/day.
- When to use: Often taken daily during cold/flu season, and at higher doses during an active illness.
- Avoid if: Your child has a dairy allergy or severe lactose intolerance.
- Check with your paediatrician before starting any new supplement.
Wondering whether to try it?
Bovine colostrum isn’t a miracle cure, but it may be a smart addition to your wellness toolbox. Bovine colostrum isn’t a miracle cure, but it may be a smart addition to your wellness toolbox. For children who catch every cold or seem to be on a cycle of antibiotics, colostrum could provide an added layer of support. It may reduce the frequency and severity of respiratory and digestive illnesses in youngsters, acting as additional immune support during high-risk seasons and exposure.
Before you introduce any supplement, talk with your healthcare provider, especially if your child has food sensitivities, is on medication, or has underlying health issues.
Curious to Try It?
Choose high-quality bovine colostrum powders that are third-party tested and free from additives. Remember, supplements can’t replace good sleep and healthy food, but for some kids, colostrum could offer a little extra support.