Packed with antibodies and nutrients, the first drops of milk from a mother’s breast—a yellowish liquid known as colostrum– are critical in developing immunity to protect newborns from infection and disease. But this pre-milk, released by the mother before actual milk production, is not only important in providing the foundation for a healthy organism in babies; numerous studies have shown an array of benefits of colostrum supplementation in adults.
Along with supporting the immune system, colostrum’s growth factor is known to have anti-aging properties as it maintains skin elasticity—the cause of wrinkles and sagging skin. Also, growth hormone found in colostrum repairs and maintains lean muscle mass in addition to increasing bone density, which prevents osteoporosis. Researchers have even linked improved performance in elite athletes to colostrum supplementation.
And the list of benefits goes on. Conditions that are currently treated with prescription medications can certainly be alleviated with the proper dosage of colostrum.
Take for example, Leaky Gut Syndrome—a very common condition affecting millions of Americans. It is no secret that serious illness starts in the gut. A leaky gut causes undigested food particles to be secreted into the bloodstream causing chronic inflammation and opening the door to diseases such as Crohn’s, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, arthritis, heartburn, and even allergies.
As traditional medicine continues to turn to prescription medication for solutions; patients continue to get sicker while still feeling uncomfortable or suffering unpleasant side effects.
The solution could be as simple as supplementing a healthy lifestyle with a dose of colostrum. Growth factors in colostrum strengthen the lining of the stomach to prevent toxins and bacteria from going into the bloodstream. Our bodies need to be repaired from within and through its own natural processes, not medications that only offer a temporary patch. And this is the foundation of the functional medicine practice—finding the root of the problem and treating it using the patient’s own body. Once the gut issues are resolved; you are less likely to suffer from illness.
Now that you know the benefits of including colostrum in your diet, you might be wondering if it’s right for you. You walk into your local pharmacy and contemplate buying this miracle supplement only to be confused by so many brands, bottles, and marketing labels. Which should you get?
Before you venture into this realm, be sure to work with a qualified practitioner who can guide you because not all colostrum is created equal.
Colostrum supplements are extracted from cows; and yes it has been proven that bovine colostrum is as effective as human-produced colostrum—so don’t be alarmed. However, how colostrum is collected and processed will determine its effectiveness. Colostrum extracted from cows within 24 hours of giving birth, will be much more effective than samples collected after, for example. Other factors, such as animal diet and exposure to pesticides are also important.
Bottom line is, colostrum is nature’s first food and it is still a super food today. It is probably right for you, but you must seek professional advice to know which and how much you should be taking. At Bellissimo, we can certainly help you make the right choice.
Call us today and schedule your free consultation at 954.384.8989. Dr. Jean-Claude Nerette is Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Functional Medicine and Stephanie Muniz Nerette is a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner and a Diplomate to the Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. Bellissimo Medical is located at 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, in Weston. www.BellissimoMedical.com
