Colostrum, called mother's gold , is a thick yellow substance that is produced toward the end of a female's pregnancy, emitted by her mammary glands during the first 24 to 48 hours after giving birth. For humans the first few breast feedings produce the newborn with colostrum, one of the main reasons breastfeeding is encouraged.
This colostrum delivers some very important substances to all newborns.
Immune factors to facilitate the development of a strong immune system.
Growth factors, essential in creation and maintenance of bone, muscle, nerves and cartilage.
Antibodies (immunoglobulins) that protect from invading organisms, minimize the severity of an illness and stimulate the infant's own immune system.
Colostrum is not new as a treatment. It was used for thousands of years by Ayurvedic physicians in India. In our country doctors in the 1950's used it to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
The colostrum on the market is bovine colostrum. The molecular structure of the immune and growth factors of bovine colostrum is actually very similar to those found in humans, so cows are universal donors for colostrum. Plus bovine colustrum is actually superior than human colostrum in having more factors, is better absorbed and being able to control the environment in making colostrum.
Colostrum is used for boosting the immune system, countering the effects of aging,and mproving the mechanisms of digestion. It is used in treating allergies, asthma, arthritis, IBS, colitis, leaky gut syndrome, skin problems (making a paste to apply topically) and infections.
People and pets can benefit from colostrum since it not species specific. I give my cats with FIV, IBS and other immune issues colostrum in their food. There is very little if any real milk in it so it does not cause allergic reactions and does not interfere with other medications.
Buy only colostrum from New Zealand cows as they are raised on pesticide free grain and grass and not given any hormones or antibiotics during their life time. One company I suggest is Symbiotics for New Zealand colostrum. You can find this in any health food store or online.
