Colostrum

Development and production

During pregnancy, the mammary glands in the bodies of female mammals begin to prepare for milk production. However, it is only after birth that the mammary glands begin to produce colostrum. This is because colostrum is rich in antibodies and other immune factors that are vital for the newborn’s survival.
Colostrum differs from normal milk in many ways. It is thicker and has a more yellowish colour. It also contains a higher proportion of protein, fat and carbohydrates, and a lower proportion of lactose. These differences make colostrum easier for newborns to digest and absorb. The product is usually obtained from cows shortly after calving. The cows are milked within a few hours of calving and the colostrum is collected separately from normal milk. It is then pasteurised and processed into various forms, including powder, capsules and liquids.
One of the most important factors determining quality is the timing of collection. Colostrum collected within the first few hours after birth contains the highest concentration of nutrients and antibodies. Over time, the concentration of these important components decreases.
Another important factor is the quality of the cow’s diet and living conditions. Cows that are healthy, fed a nutritious diet and live in clean, comfortable conditions are more likely to produce high-quality colostrum.

Ideal for the human immune system

It is interesting to note that the immune systems of mammals function in a similar way to that of humans. Consequently, colostrum from various mammalian species contains immune and growth factors that can be utilised by humans, regardless of the animal species. This means that colostrum from cows, sheep and goats can also offer excellent benefits for humans.
People have long been aware of the benefits of colostrum, as history shows. More than 10,000 years ago, our ancestors began to domesticate wild animals and bred primitive cattle to produce more milk and colostrum. Today, dairy cows are capable of producing much more colostrum.
A calf needs around 6 litres of colostrum in the first 12 hours after birth. Farmers set aside the remainder from the first two milkings for human consumption or freeze it. On average, cows produce just under 5 litres of colostrum, whilst sheep and goats produce 1 and 0.5 litres respectively.

How to take it

One of the most popular ways to take colostrum is through dietary supplements. These supplements are available in various forms, including powders, capsules and tablets. The capsule form in particular – as available from the VITALOVE online shop – makes it easier to take and, above all, to measure out the correct dose. Care should be taken to ensure that it is taken with a meal and that sufficient water is drunk alongside it.
Another way to consume colostrum is to mix it into food. In powder form, it can easily be mixed into smoothies, porridge or other foods to give them a nutritional boost. This is a good option for anyone who doesn’t want to swallow capsules.
However, it is important to note that cooking can destroy some of its beneficial nutrients. You’ll get the best results by adding the powder to foods that aren’t cooked or baked.
Some people prefer to drink raw colostrum. This is the untreated fluid produced by mammals in the first few days after giving birth. In its pure form, it is particularly rich in antibodies and other beneficial substances. However, it is important to note that raw colostrum can be expensive and difficult to find.
Finally, colostrum can also be used in skincare products. It contains growth factors that can stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has antibacterial properties that can help to treat acne and other skin conditions.
There are many different skincare products containing this active ingredient, including serums, creams and masks. Look for products containing at least 10 per cent colostrum to achieve the best results.