Lactoferrin – a functional health ingredient
What is LActoferrin (LF)?
LF is a tiny but significant fraction of whey protein that occurs naturally in the milk of many mammals, including humans and bovine. It is in present in small amounts in bovine milk, but through modern technological advances we are able to capture and concentrate lactoferrin for commercial use.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LACTOFERRIN?
LF in breastmilk and infant formula provides immune support for the growing infant, both in terms of protecting the infant from harmful pathogens and facilitating the infant’s own immune development. However, the benefits of LF extend beyond the initial year of life, as clinical trials have shown supplementation can support the immune systems of both children and adults. Lactoferrin’s bioactive properties include anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, iron absorption, prebiotic modulation of gut microflora, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Is there clinical evidence supporting LF’s benefits?
LF has a long history of clinical research that continues to grow. One factor driving the growth in research is increased interest in natural immune-supporting ingredients. Lactoferrin has been shown to protect against several pathogens including E. coli, E. sakazakii, Hepatitis C, and rotavirus. In one study, supplementation of 100mg of lactoferrin per day in children resulted in significantly lower frequency and duration of both diarrhea and vomiting. More recently, lactoferrin has been shown in a number of in-vitro and in-vivo studies to beneficially impact SARS-CoV2 virus by reducing virus replication, shortening the time to a negative PCR test and influencing the duration of symptoms in patients.
