Immunity from milk? Lactoferrin is his – Dietetics – Articles |

What is this?

Lactoferrin is a protein, to be precise glycoprotein from the trenspherin group. The organism of humans and other mammals can produce it on its own. It belongs to the immune proteins. Due to its strong affinity for iron, it catches it and thus prevents bacteria from accessing it. Among other things, this mechanism is the basis of its non-specific defense against pathogens. 

Where is?

It is found in body fluids such as milk, tears, sweat, saliva, semen, vaginal discharge. It is also present in neutrofilach (neutrophilic granulocytes). Its high concentration is in colostrum, which aims to strengthen the newborn’s first line of defense against infections, but also promotes the development of the intestines (stimulates the multiplication of enterocytes).

Research has shown that administering lactoferrin to newborns in hospitals reduced the episodes of sepsis. 

Thanks to its properties, it is used primarily in milk formulas for babies. It can also be found in supplements for children i adults and sports nutrition. It is part of many cold and flu medications. It is obtained from cow’s milk, which is also a rich source of it. What’s more, its structure is very similar to lactoferrin in the human body, thanks to which its use has a beneficial effect on the body. It is worth noting that heating reduces its activity, but UHT sterilization practically deactivates it.

How it works?

It works comprehensively on the body. Exhibits properties immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing the pH in the intestines (this prevents the development of pathogenic microflora). It became the object of observation of many studies, which also showed its effectiveness in the fight against cancer (inhibition of angiogenesis) and improvement of immunity in people suffering from AIDS. 

It protects the body against the development of the disease, and when it occurs, it mobilizes the immune system to produce antibodies and react faster to the developing situation. So it is both a shield and a motivator for the immune system.

Its effect on immunity is not limited to blocking iron. It activates such “soldiers” of the body as macrophages and NK cells (Natural Killers) by mobilizing them to produce nitric oxide, which destroys microbes. Affects production T helper lymphocytes (Th lymphocytes) and improves work B lymphocytes. Besides, lactoferrin has the ability connecting with the cell membrane healthy cells as well as pathogens. Thus, it excludes from activity the places where the ‘intruder’ could connect with the cell. It can also inactivate pathogens by blocking their receptors, which prevents them from penetrating the cell. 

When to use

Its concentration in the human body is not constant, as is the demand for it. It is logical that more of it is needed in the period of increased morbidity, and therefore over time autumn and winter. During this period, it is worth introducing supplements with its participation in order to protect yourself against the disease. However, it is also helpful during the infection, where it will support the fight, and after it, when it will improve resistance to falling ill again. 

Its antioxidant activity is used, inter alia, in by athletes whose production of free radicals is very high. Hence, it can be found in sports nutrition and drinks. In turn, its share in the transport of iron is used in supplements used in anemia.

Lactoferrin is safe for health if it is used in the right doses. Taking it in large amounts may cause diarrhea.

Although its highest concentration is found in human milk, which might suggest that it is an ingredient important only for children, it brings health benefits at any age.

Main photo is from: Photo credit: {Wheat} / IWoman / CC BY-SA