Lactoferrin (LF), also known as lactotransferrin (LTF), is an immune boosting protein naturally found in mothers’ milk, tears and saliva. This protein has antibacterial and iron-binding properties that can provide a wide range of health benefits.
A globular glycoprotein with a molecular mass of about 80kDa, Lactoferrin aids the delivery of iron to cells, as well as the absorption of iron in the intestine tract. It has also been shown to protect the body against bacterial and viral infections by depriving bacteria and viruses of essential nutrients and/or by destroying the cell walls to prevent the replication.
Some Lactoferrin Benefits
When taken as a supplement, Lactoferrin is an effective antibacterial and antiviral agent that has been shown to:
- Stimulate the immune system
- Prevent tissue damage related to aging
- Regulate bacteria in the intestine
- Treat stomach and intestinal ulcers
- Cure diarrhoea
- Regulate iron metabolism
- Treat skin disease such as ringworm
- Fight bacteria, viruses, fungi such Hepatitis C, Candida and genital infections. Have cancer fighting antioxidant properties
Lactoferrin is one of the components of the immune system of the body, and thus, it interacts with the body highly effectively with very few side effects.
Manufacture of the Supplement
Lactoferrin manufactured for supplements can be derived from specially produced rice, or from cows’ milk. There had been concerns that lactoferrin from cows milk could cause mad cow disease when taken in high doses over long periods of time, however throughout 50 years of research, there has been very little evidence to support this claim and experts now consider it safe to be taken regularly for up to 1 year.
Whilst there are many antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, catalytic, anti-cancer, and anti-allergic supplements on the market, Lactoferrin covers a broad spectrum, and is highly effective. It has also been shown to be extremely safe.
Lactoferrin Dosage
The suggested dosage is approx. 300 mg capsules per day. Bottles are typically sold containing 60 capsules, which should last around 2 months.
Lactoferrin Side Effects
Although lactoferrin produces very little in the way of side effects, when taken in high doses it can cause: skin rashes, loss of appetite, chills, fatigue and constipation.
Since lactoferrin is naturally found in mothers’ milk, it is considered safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding, BUT only in small amounts equivalent to that found in food and should not be consumed in large doses until more is known about the supplement.
