Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
By Justin Long, Writer at Switch4Good
Bovine colostrum has been making waves on social media, with “health” influencers making bold claims in reels and wellness videos. Jennifer Aniston has shared that she includes it in her daily morning routine, and Kourtney Kardashian’s website, Poosh, has touched on it too. So, it must be legit… right? Marketed as a super-supplement for exercise recovery, immunity, and gut health, you might have seen ads hyping it. But what exactly is it? Does it deserve all this buzz? And what are the potential health implications of consuming it?
What Is Colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is the first milk produced by cows in the days immediately following childbirth. It’s not the same as regular dairy milk—it’s thicker, richer in proteins, antibodies, and growth factors, and specifically designed to support a newborn calf’s immune system and development.
For human supplementation, colostrum is typically dried and processed into powder or capsules. Most products highlight compounds like immunoglobulins (such as IgG), lactoferrin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)—a hormone that plays a role in tissue growth and regeneration.
Humans also produce colostrum during the first few days of breastfeeding. Just like in cows, it’s a short-term, highly concentrated fluid designed to help newborns build immune defenses. But here’s the key point: colostrum is species-specific. Human infants receive human colostrum tailored to their immune system, microbiome, and developmental needs. There’s no biological rationale for adult humans to consume bovine colostrum, particularly one rich in growth hormones not intended for human physiology.
The Promises vs. the Proof
Some companies claim bovine colostrum can:
- Strengthen the immune system
- Improve gut health
- Enhance athletic recovery
While some studies have explored colostrum’s effects, more research is needed to determine its actual advantages or potential harms. It’s not regulated by the FDA, and given the well-documented risks associated with dairy consumption, there’s cause for serious concern. So, let’s look more closely at what the science says.
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- Gut Health:
Some research suggests colostrum may reduce gut permeability in people with intestinal damage—such as one study funded by PanTheryx, a supplement company that sells colostrum. Despite the results, the obvious conflict of interest undermines the study’s credibility. - Immunity:
While colostrum contains substances that may affect the immune system, it’s unclear how much of these survive digestion or get absorbed in meaningful amounts. The immune benefits observed in calves don’t automatically apply to adult humans consuming cow-derived supplements. - IGF-1 and Hormonal Activity:
Bovine colostrum contains IGF-1, a potent growth factor. Though some users seek it for anti-aging or muscle-repair purposes, elevated IGF-1 levels in humans are linked to higher risks of hormone-sensitive cancers, including prostate, breast, and colorectal. That doesn’t mean colostrum causes cancer, but it does raise levels of a growth hormone in the body that’s been connected to increased cancer susceptibility, especially with regular use.
- Gut Health:
Bottom Line
Bovine colostrum is being sold as the next big thing in wellness, but most of the evidence behind it is preliminary, industry-funded, or limited to very specific populations.
Your body doesn’t need cow colostrum. Quite the contrary. Before adding another supplement to your routine, especially one derived from a growth-stimulating early milk, ask yourself: Is this trend rooted in solid science, or just clever branding?
Looking for a Better Option?
A whole food, plant-based diet can provide the nutrients your body needs to truly thrive. Unlike bovine colostrum, it promotes long-term health without added consequences.
Immunity
Colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, citrus, and leafy greens, are packed with antioxidants that help defend the body from oxidative stress.
Gut Health
Unlike dairy and colostrum, which contain no fiber at all, whole plant foods provide the fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria, supports a balanced microbiome, and promotes healthy digestion.
Athletic Recovery
Plant polyphenols can aid muscle recovery and reduce inflammation.
Ready to level up your health? Download our Plant-Based Playbook for easy, crave-worthy swaps that boost immunity, support gut health, and fuel your fitness.
