Introduction to Colostrum

Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands immediately after birth, before it transitions into mature milk. This early secretion is crucial for the survival of newborn mammals, especially those like ungulates (hoofed animals). Colostrum serves several vital functions: it provides essential nutrients, boosts protection against pathogens, supports the development of the immune system, and aids in the growth, maturation, and repair of various tissues. Extensive research on colostrum from cows, goats, and humans has revealed the presence of over ninety different biologically active substances, each playing a unique role in newborn health.

The bioactive components of colostrum include:

 

    1. Anti-microbial factors

    1. Immune-stimulating peptides

    1. Growth factors

These components work together to protect and promote the health of newborns. For example, the anti-microbial factors in colostrum offer passive immunity, helping to protect newborns from infections, particularly in the early stages of life. These factors can directly attack pathogens or indirectly support the growth of a healthy gut microbiota, rich in beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.

Colostrum also plays a critical role in immune development by signaling the immune system to tolerate food and noninvasive antigens, helping to prevent abnormal immune responses. At the same time, it helps to promote the maturation of the immune system, preparing it to fight off infections when necessary.

Some bioactive components, like colostrinin, cytokines, lactoferrin, β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, and glycomacropeptides, directly contribute to immune system development. Others, such as oligosaccharides, gangliosides, and nucleosides, indirectly support immune health by encouraging the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

In addition to immune support, colostrum contains growth factors that are crucial for the development, maturation, and repair of various tissues. These growth factors have been widely studied for their potential in promoting tissue healing and recovery.

In recent years, colostrum has gained attention for its use in the prevention and treatment of a range of diseases in both humans and animals, particularly for conditions involving the gastrointestinal system.

Colostrum also contains other bioactive components, such as immunoglobulins, growth factors, vitamins, and hormones.

A true bio active – Immune For Life

Bovine colostrum contains leukocytes, which are cells that may be important for passive immunity. The types of leukocytes in colostrum include:

Macrophages: The most common cell type, making up 50–90% of colostrum leukocytes.
T-lymphocytes: The second most common cell type, making up about 16% of colostrum leukocytes.
B-lymphocytes: A small number of B-lymphocytes are present, usually less than 5%.
Polymorphonuclear cells: Mostly neutrophils, these cells make up 3–6% of colostrum leukocytes.
Epithelial cells: These cells make up 2–15% of colostrum leukocytes. 



The number of leukocytes in colostrum can vary depending on the cow’s age, breed, health, and immune status.

Colostrum also contains other bioactive components, such as immunoglobulins, growth factors, vitamins, and hormones.