How Much Colostrum Should I Take Daily? What Trials Actually Used

Abstract Summary

Objective

To map adult dosing used in peer-reviewed trials and relate dose ranges to common goals (gut, immunity, performance).

Context

Dosing guidance on labels varies widely because products differ in immunoglobulin and growth-factor content and processing. Trials often match dose to endpoint rather than body weight.

Methods Used

Approach

Identify reference doses by outcome: gut permeability, athlete recovery/performance, and infection-related diarrhea.

Data Collection

Gut-barrier/athlete: 20 g/day for ~2 weeks reduced permeability/injury markers in heat-stress treadmill trials. Performance/strength: 60 g/day during training blocks in older adults or athletes. Infection-related diarrhea: 10–32 g/day in small adult cohorts. Some studies report effects at 0.5–3.2 g/day, but results are mixed.

Researchers' Summary of Findings

Impact on Health

Correctly dosed colostrum may support gut integrity and exercise recovery; incorrect or under-powered dosing (or low-bioactivity product) may yield null effects.

Health Implications

Start at the low end of a goal-matched range and assess tolerance; coordinate with a clinician if you have GI disease, take immunomodulators, or compete under anti-doping rules.

Sustainability

Select suppliers that disclose IgG content, batch testing, and day-0/early milk proportion; variability data support stricter specification and labeling.

DOI

10.3390/nu13061789