Lactoferrin is a protein with antiviral and antibacterial properties that helps the body transport and absorb iron.
It is sometimes taken as a supplement for its antioxidant andanti-inflammatorybenefits.
Lactoferrin is found naturally in the milk of humans, cows, and other mammals.
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That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Lactoferrin has a wide range of purported uses.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
As a supplement, it is thought to have antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
Researchers are also starting to look at lactoferrins possible role in immunity withCOVID-19in mind.
Many believe that lactoferrin can support theimmune system.
Clinical studies have used doses ranging from 100 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day.
Safety Considerations:There are few side effects associated with lactoferrin.
Taking too much lactoferrin may result in stomach upset, skin rash, and loss of appetite.
This binding action does not allow bacteria to use iron to transport itself through the body.
In one lab study, lactoferrin from cows was found to inhibit the growth of H. pylori.
It’s thought to do this by inhibiting viruses from attaching to cells and replicating.
There’s also some evidence that lactoferrin may inhibithepatitis Cinfection.
Several studies have investigated the relationship.
Of particular interest is the potential ability of lactoferrin to prevent and treat COVID-19.
Larger, longer-term studies are needed before recommending lactoferrin’s use.
Fungal Infections
Lactoferrin is also thought to have anti-fungal activity.
Various animal studies have looked at whether lactoferrin may help treat fungal infections, including yeast infections, orcandida.
In one such study, yeast-infected mice treated with lactoferrin had less severe infections than mice not given lactoferrin.
More human trials are needed regarding lactoferrin’s potential role in treating bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Another small study found similar results.
Adolescent participants withacne vulgaristook chewable lactoferrin supplements for eight weeks.
By the end of the study, they had reduced acne lesions and inflammation.
The supplements were also well-tolerated.
It has also been found to alleviate osteoporosis symptoms, possibly through cell signaling.
In another study, lactoferrin helped strengthen and preserve bones in mice whose ovaries had been removed.
Removing the ovaries is said to control hormonal changes.
However, studies involving humans are lacking.
As with most purported uses of lactoferrin, more human trials are required regarding osteoporosis.
Iron Regulation
Several studies have looked at the effects of lactoferrin on iron metabolism.
Cancer
It is thought that the antioxidant properties of lactoferrin may explain its potential anti-cancer benefits.
Lactoferrin supplementation has shown protective effects against cancers of the colon, stomach, liver, and pancreas.
However, research is very preliminary, and more well-designed studies are needed.
Although lactoferrin holds much promise for slowing the effects of aging, more research is needed.
Talk with your healthcare provider if you are interested in using lactoferrin for these and other uses.
Regardless, side effects are possible when using lactoferrin supplements.
Common Side Effects
Many studies on lactoferrin have reported no apparent side effects from taking it.
However, it may be possible to be allergic to lactoferrin.
A study performed on mice found that administering lactoferrin into the blood or mucosal tissues could produceallergens.
In the study, an allergic reaction causing airways to become inflamed was observed in the mice.
However, the same results have not been seen in humans.
Stop using lactoferrin and seek immediate medical attention if you have an allergic reaction.
Precautions
There are few documented precautions when it comes to lactoferrin.
Lactoferrin is generally recognized as safe, especially when consumed in recommended amounts.
It feels like a safe supplement for many sensitive groups, like children and people who arepregnant.
Still, it’s important to follow directions when using lactoferrin and not take more than directed.
Taking more lactoferrin than recommended could result in side effects.
People following a vegan diet should check the supplement packaging to ensure the product will fit their diet.
Capsule coatings are not always vegan.
Dosage: How Much Lactoferrin Should I Take?
Widely available for purchase online, lactoferrin supplements are primarily sold in capsule form.
There is no standard dose for lactoferrin.
This means dosage may depend on age, health conditions, and gender.
These doses did not result in any known toxicities.
Talk with your healthcare provider about finding the proper lactoferrin dose for your specific needs.
Breastfeeding infants and toddlers can obtain lactoferrin from colostrum at birth and breast milk.
Summary
Lactoferrin is a protein found in the milk of mammals like humans and cows.
It has been studied for its potential antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties.
Some research shows that lactoferrin may also be used for acne, osteoporosis, and other health concerns.
Lactoferrin is generally safe, but it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider before using it.
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