What it does: It supports immune system activity by limiting iron availability to harmful bacteria and viruses, and helps regulate iron balance and inflammation in the body.
How it is used: People use lactoferrin supplements to promote immune health, maintain gut microbial balance, and support wellness during times of increased immune or digestive stress.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Lactoferrin is abundant in human colostrum and present in cow’s milk; supplement forms are typically purified from cow’s milk and sold as powders or capsules.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: It is added for its well-studied ability to support immune defenses and encourage a healthy gut microbiome by limiting unwanted microbial growth.
What to know before use: People with milk protein allergies should talk with a healthcare provider before taking lactoferrin derived from dairy sources.
Interesting Fact
Lactoferrin: A Protective Protein Found in Milk
Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring protein most abundant in human colostrum and milk, where it plays a key role in the body's first defense system. It binds iron, making it less available to certain bacteria, and is recognized for its importance in supporting the health benefits of breast milk. This multifunctional protein is also found in lesser amounts in cow’s milk and other bodily secretions.
