You need a healthy body that functions properly in order to defend yourself against all the threats that can cause you to become sick. Many people may say that the key to fixing the problem is to treat the sickness, but there are many naturally-occurring substances that can help prevent illness before it strikes. One such substance is called “Lactoferrin.”
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Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein that is found in body fluids and milk. Lactoferrin is an important component of the immune system.
This protein, which has antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, is produced by certain types of white blood cells present at sites of inflammation. Several studies have linked Lactoferrin to several roles in the body.
The high antimicrobial activity of Lactoferrin makes it a crucial component of the human immune system. Lactoferrin is needed to boost the immune system of infants who still rely on breast milk.
The protein also plays a significant role in maintaining the immune system further past infancy.
Lactoferrin is linked to DNA and other molecules that are contained in milk including IgA, albumin, and casein among others. It also helps the development of the digestive system in infants.
The protein also boosts the performance of the immune system on the newborn by fighting against the invasion of microbes. Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the protein against H. Pylori and hepatitis C.
The antimicrobial activity makes Lactoferrin a better option for the management of diarrhea and stomach ulcers.
While some studies have also suggested that the protein contains anticancer properties, more studies need to be performed to confirm the anticancer activity of Lactoferrin.
What is Lactoferrin?
Lactoferrin is a protein, and you can naturally find it in human milk and cow milk, though many companies try to replicate the components using a rice-based recipe. When mothers first have their milk come in after giving birth, the first liquid that they feed their infant is colostrum, which has seven times the amount of Lactoferrin that regular breastmilk has. This protein is found in multiple other places in the body usually, like the eyes, nose, and intestines.
From a medicinal standpoint, Lactoferrin is commonly used to treat stomach problems and to help boost the immune system. With enough research into the protein, it is possible that scientists can formulate a supplement or medicine that can help solve global health problems that features the enzymes in Lactoferrin.
How Does Lactoferrin Work?
Lactoferrin is typically needed in the body to help regulate how iron is absorbed into the intestine, but it also helps to deliver iron to the rest of the cells in your body. Through multiple studies, it is theorized to help prevent infections that are caused by bacteria. According to this research, it is possible that it starves the bacteria of nutrients it needs to survive, as it breaks down cell walls.
Lactoferrin naturally occurs in mother’s milk, which is why it is so essential for mothers to breastfeed their children for as long as possible during infancy. This established protein in their body has the power to protect them from life-threatening infections that they can’t defend themselves against.
Lactoferrin is not limited to protecting consumers from bacterial infections. It also helps to prevent infections that are caused by viruses and fungi, though it is not clear if it breaks down the cell walls in the same way.
Lactoferrin also is involved in the functions of your bone marrow, helping your body defend itself against a multitude of threats to your immune system.
Lactoferrin Health Benefits
Due to the origins of Lactoferrin, it should come as no surprise that it has multiple roles in the medical community. Here’s a little more about all the ways that regularly consuming Lactoferrin can impact you.
Lactoferrin Prevents The Development Of Inflammation
Studies have revealed that Lactoferrin is effective in the prevention of inflammation in humans. The protein is also found in the amniotic fluid where inflammation that is associated with pregnancy is reduced.
The protein works by lowering the levels of interleukin 6. It also reduces the chances of developing an infection from the inflammation.
Studies have revealed that Lactoferrin has anti-inflammatory effects when it interacts with the body's defense system against the Epstein-Bar Virus.
The overall effect is reduced inflammation by preventing the activation of TLR9 and TLR2 that are found in the virus DNA.
A study that was performed in rats also discovered that the combination of glycine and Lactoferrin is effective for the management of skin inflammation.
Modulation Of The Immune System
Several immune cells have Lactoferrin receptors. Lactoferrin impacts the performance of the immune cells by binding to these receptors. The protein can cause changes to the white blood cells by increasing the activity of neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer cells.
As a result, the production of cytokine and nitric oxide is increased.
Studies have also revealed that Lactoferrin has an effect on the performance of the adaptive immune cells which play a crucial role in the development of the natural immune system in the fight against infections.
According to a study, the administration of Lactoferrin to mice that had been treated with chemotherapy led to a fast reconstitution of the immune system. The administration of Lactoferrin lowered the chances of developing an infection.
In another study, Lactoferrin was administered to mice suffering from colorectal dysplasia. The treatment with Lactoferrin minimized the overall deficiency and also improved the symptoms and inflammation that presented with dysplasia.
Helps Manage Bacterial Infections
Studies have indicated that Lactoferrin can contribute to stopping the development of diseases. The growth of most bacteria requires the availability of iron; Lactoferrin has been shown to prevent bacteria growth by blocking the absorption of iron.
It also acts by blocking the process of carbohydrate metabolism by the microbial organisms. The protein also interacts with lysozymes that are present in milk to stop the bacterial growth.
Lactoferrin has been shown to have activity against Streptococcus pneumonia by preventing the organism from spreading to other sterile cells.
According to multiple websites, Lactoferrin aims to eliminate excess iron in the body, which means that it eliminates the growth of unhealthy bacteria in your body. As it is digested in your stomach, there are several strains of bacteria that Lactoferrin can prevent the attachment of in your stomach. In fact, it is this role that allows you to reduce the chances of enduring a digestive disorder or illness.
As far as protection from viruses, Lactoferrin usually is able to provide the barrier necessary while the baby is still in the womb. Lactoferrin can protect the fetus from herpes, hepatitis C, rotaviruses, and other viral infections.
Antifungal Protection
When taken on a regular basis, Lactoferrin is able to provide the protection a woman needs to prevent bacterial issues orally and in the genital area.
Lactoferrin Is Anti-parasitic
Lactoferrin has been shown to be effective in cows that are infested with parasites. Supplementation of these cows with the protein boosts the activity of the immune system against the parasites and promotes the expulsion of the parasites from the body.
Cancer Prevention
There have been multiple studies to determine the effect that this substance has on cancer in pigs and rates. The evidence has shown that using Lactoferrin has had positive effects on decreasing the possibility or the effects of lung, bladder, tongue, colon, liver, or oral cancer.
Studies have revealed that bovine lactotransferrin can prevent the growth in breast cancer cells. The molecule is capable of stopping the growth of cancer cells during the cell cycle. It also acts by disrupting the membrane of cancer cells.
A study revealed the ability of Lactoferrin to restore the amount of red and white blood cells after a session of chemotherapy. Individuals diagnosed with breast cancer showed an increased immune response after being administered with Lactoferrin.
Cystic Fibrosis Immunity
Cystic Fibrosis patients often have a deficiency of this protein. However, by introducing Lactoferrin to your diet, you may be able to adjust your ability to use different antibiotics for treatment. Right now, the FDA and EMEA are both working on a compound that can help with these effects on a more conclusive level.
It Promotes Iron Absorption
Lactoferrin has been shown to enhance the absorption of iron in the intestines. The protein molecule is also responsible for transport of iron to body cells. Most body cells require iron for their healthy growth and activity.
The administration of iron vitamins to pregnant mothers is discouraged; Lactoferrin is used as a safe source of iron to pregnant women.
Potential Side Effects of Lactoferrin
Since this substance is often found in breast milk, the actual side effects are fairly mild and rare. You can easily consume Lactoferrin in food without having any issues. In fact, you can even take Lactoferrin that is made with a special kind of processed rice for up to two weeks without really suffering from any real side effects.
If you do endure any side effects, you probably will be dealing with:
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Constipation
You should reconsider using Lactoferrin on a medicinal basis, unless instructed by your doctor. Studies are still constantly being done to determine exactly how this protein can benefit patients.
Additionally, while the risk is very small, some consumers are still concerned about contracted mad cow disease from medicinal Lactoferrin.
According to WebMD, the amount of Lactoferrin consumed in food is safe. The intake of high amounts of Lactoferrin from cow's milk may be safe for one year. Human Lactoferrin that is derived from a specially processed rice is safe for 14 days.
The intake of high amounts of Lactoferrin can cause side effects such as diarrhea and higher doses of Lactoferrin can also present with skin rashes, anorexia or loss of appetite, constipation, chills, and fatigue.
The consumption of Lactoferrin in food amounts is safe for pregnant and nursing women. However, larger doses of medicinal Lactoferrin should be avoided.
Pricing for Lactoferrin
There are many health supplement companies that offer their own capsules or soft gels of Lactoferrin. The price at each company varies, but here are a few of the top options from Amazon, along with their prices:
- Jarrow Formulas, 250mg ($25.92)
- Life Extensions, 300mg ($33.50)
- Symbiotics, 500mg ($39.95)
- NutriCology ($25.77)
- Ecological Formulas, 100mg ($15.69)
Top Products Containing Lactoferrin
SYMBIOTICS: Lactoferrin Caps
This product is said to boost the performance of the body’s immune system. It also promotes healthy digestive system by scavenging iron and balancing the availability of the healthy flora in the gut.
The product has an overall rating of 3.9 stars out of a possible five stars on Amazon. The selling price on Amazon is $44.99.
Jarrow Formulas Lactoferrin
Jarrow Formulas Lactoferrin is a great booster of the immune system. It also promotes the absorption of iron in the intestines.
The product is available in the form of froze-dried capsules. It has an overall rating of 4.1 stars out of a possible five stars on Amazon. The selling price is $25.24.
Life Extension Lactoferrin
The product is an excellent source of Lactoferrin in the body. It has an overall rating of 3.8 stars out of a possible five stars on Amazon. It is sold at $29.78.
Lactoferrin Conclusion
Lactoferrin has several roles in the body. Its availability helps increase the absorption of iron in the intestine. It also has therapeutic properties such as antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, and antiparasitic.
The consumption of Lactoferrin contained in food is safe to some extent. However, the intake of Lactoferrin that is formulated in the form of medicine may result in side effects such as diarrhea, skin rashes, and constipation.
Both natural and artificial Lactoferrin involve a wealth of possibilities, when it comes to protecting the human race from succumbing to many different illnesses. This protein is essential to most bodily systems, and has made it possible to eliminate bacteria that can be detrimental to your health. With enough research, it is possible that Lactoferrin could be the key to solving many issues in the health of humans and the world.
