What Are Colostrum Supplements?

Given its role in breastfeeding, it may be surprising to see colostrum supplements on the market. Sometimes known as liquid gold, nutrient-dense colostrum is the first milk individuals who breastfeed produce before their mature milk supply comes in.

Known for its rich gold color, thick consistency and immune-boosting properties, colostrum is highly regarded for infant nutrition. However, it’s important to note the colostrum supplements currently gaining popularity are not intended for infants.

These supplements, sourced from cows, have been promoted for a variety of reasons and are the subject of ongoing research.

Bovine Colostrum

Whether from humans or cows, colostrum is higher in protein and vitamins than mature milk. It also provides antibodies, insulin-like-growth hormones and lactoferrin, a glycoprotein that binds with iron and plays a role in immunity. Lactoferrin from bovine sources is often added to infant formulas due to the beneficial role it plays.

While there has been growing interest in the use of bovine colostrum for a variety of conditions, research is currently limited.

Gastrointestinal Health

Several clinical trials have suggested that hyperimmune bovine colostrum (colostrum from cows that have been immunized against specific pathogens) may be helpful in treating the volume and frequency of diarrhea in children. It also has shown potential benefit in reducing the volume of diarrhea in children infected with rotavirus.

However, systematic reviews from 2024 and 2025 have found the overall effect of bovine colostrum supplementation to be inconclusive in the treatment of diarrhea. One review was specific to the pediatric population, whereas the other looked at both adults and children. Both systematic reviews noted a possible improvement in the frequency but not the duration of diarrhea with bovine colostrum supplementation. Improvement of other symptoms — such as inflammation, vomiting, H. pylori infection and constipation — was limited and inconclusive.

Immune Health in Physically Active Individuals

Possible benefits of bovine colostrum have been suggested in the treatment of exercise-induced respiratory infections; however, these studies have been small and mixed in their results. Additionally, a meta-analysis and systematic review analyzing immune function in athletes and people who participate in physical activity recreationally determined supplementation did not significantly improve the concentration of serum immunoglobins, lymphocytes or neutrophils.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis

A meta-analysis from 2018 found no benefit of bovine colostrum in low birth weight and preterm infants in treating necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Specifically, no benefit was noted in severity of NEC, sepsis, all-cause mortality or enteral nutrition tolerance. Additionally, one clinical trial determined an association between supplementation in preterm infants and periventricular damage.

Other Claims

Currently, there are few systematic reviews and meta-analyses studying bovine colostrum supplements in humans. Clinical trials and narrative reviews have looked at bovine colostrum use in a variety of conditions, including diabetes, muscle strength and wound healing. Many of these studies have been small with limited evidence supporting their use.

Additional Concerns

Given the nature of bovine colostrum, these supplements should not be used by anyone with an allergy to cow’s milk. Good manufacturing practices also are necessary due to the risk of microbial contamination. Individuals who choose to take these supplements should seek out products that have been pasteurized.

Available research suggests colostrum may be produced in volumes larger than a calf needs, with supplements made from surplus. However, animal welfare also may be of concern to those considering bovine colostrum supplements.

References

• Nutrition Care Manual. Composition of Human Milk. Accessed April 1, 2025.
• McGrath BA, Fox PF, McSweeney PLH, Kelly AL. Composition and properties of bovine colostrum: a review. Dairy Science and Technology. 2016; 96: 133-158.
• NatMed Pro. Bovine Colostrum. Accessed April 24, 2025.
• Oswal D, Angolkar M, Mahantashetti NS, et al. Effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on gut health of children: A systematic review. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 2025. Early view.
• Hajihashemi P, Haghighatdoost H, Kassaian N, et al. Therapeutics effects of bovine colostrum applications on gastrointestinal diseases: a systematic review. Systematic Reviews. 2024; 76(13).
• Glowka N, Durkalec-Michalski K, Wozniewicz M. Immunological Outcomes of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Trained and Physically Active People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2020; 12(4):1023.
• Sadeghirad B, Morgan RL, Zeraatkar D, et al. Human and Bovine Colostrum for Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Meta-analysis. Pediatrics. (2018) 142 (2): e20180767.
• Wallace, T.C. 2023. Health Professional's Guide to Dietary Supplements. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.