Evidence supporting the use of: Colostrum
For the health condition: Nursing

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Colostrum, the first milk produced by mammals (including humans and cows) immediately following birth, is widely recognized for its role in supporting nursing and neonatal health. Scientifically, colostrum is rich in immunoglobulins (especially IgA), growth factors, antimicrobial peptides, and nutrients essential for newborns. These bioactive compounds help establish passive immunity, protect against gastrointestinal infections, and promote the healthy development of the gut in infants. Numerous clinical studies have shown that breastfeeding, and specifically the administration of colostrum in the first days of life, reduces the risk of neonatal infections, necrotizing enterocolitis, and other complications in both full-term and preterm infants.

In addition to its benefits in human neonates, bovine colostrum has been studied as a supplement for adults and children to support immune function and gut health. While the majority of robust evidence supports the use of maternal colostrum for newborns, some randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that bovine colostrum supplementation can reduce the incidence of diarrhea and infections in children and may help with gut permeability issues in adults, including athletes and patients with gastrointestinal disorders. The World Health Organization and numerous pediatric health authorities strongly recommend early initiation of breastfeeding to ensure newborns receive colostrum, underlining its scientific validation.

In summary, the use of colostrum to support and treat issues related to nursing and neonatal health is strongly backed by scientific evidence, with a well-established role in enhancing immunity and supporting early development.

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