What is colostrum?

Colostrum foremilk is the first food of the calf and contains more than 400 bioactive substances in the first 72 hours that support the development of the immune system.

The Building Block of Life: Colostrum Foremilk

Our greatest interest lies primarily in the numerous immune factors found in colostrum. These include bioactive messengers that can directly influence immunological processes.
Among them are special antibodies (immunoglobulins), as well as growth factors, hormones, and cytokines, which all play a vital role.
Naturally, colostrum also contains numerous vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and all essential amino acids.

For LACsell® products, we only use the highly concentrated foremilk from the 1st and 2nd milking, with half of the quantity reserved for the newborn calf.

Overview of the Bioactive Components

Immunoglobulins are proteins that provide a specific immune response to the invasion of pathogens. These antibodies can independently neutralize or mark bacteria, viruses, allergens, etc., so that immune-competent helper cells can take over the task.

  • * IgG – Makes up approx. 80% of all antibodies. Responsible for the defense against invading bacteria and viruses. Antibodies neutralize unknown microorganisms.
  • * IgA – Protects mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and intestines against bacterial and viral attacks.
  • * IgD – Stimulates B-cells to produce specific antibodies.
  • * IgE – Regulates allergic reactions.

Growth factors are special messengers that modulate cellular metabolism by transmitting information from one cell to another.
They directly influence cell division and the differentiation of stem cells, while also regulating a variety of intracellular processes.

Hormones (from ancient Greek, meaning “to drive or activate”) are secretions from glands that activate organs and metabolic processes in the best sense.

PRPs act via the thymus gland to regulate the immune system. They can stimulate a weakened immune system or calm an allergic overreaction.
Polypeptides also support brain function and contribute to emotional stability.

Lactoferrin (LF) is a strongly iron-binding protein found in various body fluids and also in white blood cells. Lactoferrin possesses both antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Cytokines are special proteins with regulatory functions. They are involved in controlling the body’s immune response to pathogens. Interleukins are also responsible for communication between immune cells, ensuring that targeted immune reactions can be coordinated.

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