Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein with immune-modulating, antimicrobial, and gut health benefits.
Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring glycoprotein with iron-binding properties found in milk and other bodily fluids. It is commonly derived from bovine milk for use in supplements. Lactoferrin demonstrates a variety of biological activities including immune modulation, antimicrobial effects, iron regulation, and potential benefits for gut and skin health. It is generally considered safe, but mild gastrointestinal side effects are possible in some individuals.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
100-300mg daily
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Typically isolated from bovine milk through various separation and purification techniques, including ion exchange chromatography and ultrafiltration. Recombinant production in microorganisms is also possible but less common.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Immune support enhances the body's defense against pathogens by strengthening immune cells, promoting antibody production, and maintaining immune homeostasis. It aims to optimize immune function for a balanced and resilient response to threats.
This benefit aims to improve overall skin health and appearance through increased hydration, reduced inflammation, improved elasticity, and protection from environmental damage. Healthy skin exhibits a smooth texture, even tone, and strong barrier function.
Gut health supports the digestive system by optimizing digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and waste elimination through a balanced gut microbiome. Maintaining gut health can reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and enhance overall well-being.
Immune modulation balances the immune system by either boosting it during deficiencies or suppressing it during overactivity, aiming to restore immune homeostasis. This can be achieved through influencing cytokine production, regulating immune cell activity and promoting self-tolerance.
Berberine combats infections by disrupting microbial cell membranes and interfering with their metabolism. It demonstrates antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Ceruloplasmin, a copper-containing enzyme, oxidizes ferrous iron to ferric iron, which is essential for iron transport via transferrin and cellular iron uptake. This process ensures adequate iron availability for oxygen transport and other vital bodily functions.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset involves a variety of digestive symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may indicate an underlying condition if persistent.
Allergic reactions are adverse immune responses to normally harmless substances, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Symptoms can include skin issues, swelling, breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis requires immediate epinephrine injection.
Gastrointestinal discomfort includes nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, typically mild and transient. Symptoms are often dose-dependent and vary in severity.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have investigated lactoferrin's effects, including those published in journals such as the British Journal of Nutrition, Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, and Applied and Environmental Microbiology. Specific studies focus on its antimicrobial properties against various pathogens, its role in iron metabolism, and its immunomodulatory effects in both in vitro and in vivo models. Clinical trials have explored its efficacy in treating conditions like iron deficiency anemia, acne, and inflammatory bowel disease.
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