Is Bovine Colostrum Safe for Adults? Evidence, Risks, and What to Know

Abstract Summary

Objective

To evaluate the safety profile of bovine colostrum in adults, including adverse events, contraindications, and special-population considerations.

Context

Colostrum contains immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and growth factors that act locally in the gut. Adult use spans immune support and exercise or GI applications; evidence quality is heterogeneous and product composition is variable.

Methods Used

Approach

Compare adverse-event rates and dropouts versus placebo across adult trials; identify explicit cautions and any lab or regulatory advisories relevant to athletes and special populations.

Data Collection

Reviews spanning 28 human studies report mostly mild GI complaints; clinical monographs describe nausea or reflux in a minority of participants. No consistent signal of serious harm emerged in adult trials when standard food-grade colostrum was used.

Researchers' Summary of Findings

Impact on Health

A favorable safety profile supports exploration for gut barrier and immune endpoints; however, heterogeneity of products and dosing complicates generalization.

Health Implications

Avoid if you have confirmed cow’s-milk allergy; use caution with lactose intolerance; discuss use during pregnancy/breastfeeding with a clinician due to limited data. Athletes should consult anti-doping guidance.

Sustainability

Prefer suppliers with transparent sourcing and third-party testing; documented variability in bioactivity argues for standardized processing and potency verification.

DOI

10.3390/nu13072194