Bovine Colostrum - FAQ's
What are the health benefits of Milk Colostrum?
Colostrum is a highly nutritious liquid with extraordinary health-giving qualities. It is higher in protein and immune cells than breast milk and lower in fat. It is the best way the mother can transfer her immunity to the newborn to protect it from infections and diseases in the first few days of life. Without it, the baby has a high risk of sickness, which will affect its ability to thrive.
Often called the ‘first milk’ Colostrum contains an amazing array of beneficial substances such as: immunoglobulins (natural antibodies) which offer the newborn increased protection from pathogens (infectious bugs); modulators of the immune system (such as Iron –containing proteins similar to haemoglobin), to help the infant’s system adapt; growth factors to complete the development of the gastrointestinal tract; and many other proteins and cells that act in concert to protect the baby and prepare it for life after birth.
Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are a critical part of the body’s immune response. Immune cells or white blood cells in the plasma (blood) produce immunoglobulins. By specifically recognizing and binding to particular antigens (another name for infectious bugs, such as bacteria or viruses), they aid in their destruction. IgG, IgM and IgA are different types of immunoglobulins and have particular functions:
IgG (Immunoglobulin G), the most abundant type of antibody, is found in all body fluids and protects against bacterial and viral infections.
IgM (Immunoglobulin M), is found mainly in the blood and lymph fluid, is the first to be made by the body to fight a new infection.
IgA (Immunoglobulin A), is found in high concentrations in the mucous membranes, it is particularly concentrated in the lining of the respiratory passages and gastrointestinal tract, as well as in saliva and tears.
Growth factors are necessary for repair as well as growth, the major ones are IGF-1, IGF-2, and Transforming Growth Factor alpha and beta (TGF A & B). The many regenerative effects of IGF-1, coupled with those of TGF, promote healing and healthy growth.
Modulators of the immune system include lactoferrin and proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs). Lactoferrin, is a complex protein that stores Iron, it makes up 6 percent of the protein content of Colostrum; it regulates iron absorption in the body. Iron is an essential mineral which allows the body to transport oxygen to the many cells necessary to provide energy and protect the body. Meanwhile, PRPs enhance the body’s cellular response to infections over-and-above the action of immunoglobulins.
Colostrum also contains vitamins including vitamin A in both its forms; beta carotene and retinoic acid, most of the B complex vitamins and vitamin C as well as at least eight different minerals including Calcium and Zinc.
How should I take Milk Colostrum Powder?
Milk Colostrum Powder may be mixed with cooled boiled water (below 50oC) and consumed immediately or mixed into prepared foods such as rice, oatmeal, gravy or soup. When added to prepared foods it should be used promptly are stored appropriately.
How often should I take Milk Colostrum Powder?
Deep Blue Health Milk Colostrum Powder is a concentrated form of a natural food. It can be taken with meals or as a nourishing drink similar to milk.
Directions
Serving Size 1 scoop = 5g (approx)
Not recommended for infants under 6 months.
6 months to 1 year old: 1 scoop per serving
1-8 years old: 2-3 scoops per serving
8-18 years old: 2-4 scoops per serving
Adults: 3-5 scoops per serving
As a drink
Combine the required amount of powder with a small amount of cooled, boiled water (50oC) and then top-up to desired volume (200ml - 250ml) with water or another liquid.
Mixing with food
Deep Blue Health Colostrum Powder may be mixed directly into prepared foods such as rice, oatmeal, gravy or soup.
When added to infant foods; (infants = 6months - 1 year), use 1 scoop per serving.
Are there any adverse reactions/side-effects?
Cow Milk is a natural food. As with any food product, some people may experience allergic reactions. If adverse reactions are experienced, consumption should cease and a healthcare professional should be consulted.
Possible Cow Milk allergy symptoms may range in severity from mild hives or eczema to a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction. The most common symptoms of milk allergy are: hives, wheezing, runny nose, sneezing, swelling, and vomiting. Other symptoms include: asthma, coughing, nasal congestion, itchy rash, watery eyes, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and colic in babies.
Are there any contraindications?
Milk Colostrum Powder is not a complete food and should not be used as a food replacement. Infant use only as directed by a physician (Infant = 6 months – 1 year).
Not recommended for infants under 6 months of age.
Should I take Milk Colostrum while I am pregnant?
As with all dietary supplements, you should seek professional advice if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or are breast-feeding, before consuming Milk Colostrum.
GENERAL:
Packaging/Container – 450g sealed Can (99mmx 145mm) with plastic lid/cover and 5g plastic scoop. Used for storage and measuring Milk Colostrum Powder.
Processing/Manufacture - Milk Colostrum Powder is made from New Zealand dairy cow colostrum and full cream milk powder.
According to Fonterra : “…milk powders are manufactured by spray-drying fresh dairy ingredients and can be used in a wide variety of applications”.
Spray-drying involves the gentle removal of water at the lowest possible temperature under stringent hygiene conditions while retaining all the desirable natural properties of the milk - colour, flavour, solubility, nutritional value.
Shelf Life Stability of Product – Un-opened Milk Colostrum Powder can be stored for 3 years from the date of manufacture. See can for expiry date.
Specific Conditions of Storage - Store in a dry place below 30 degrees Celsius. Opened can should be covered with over cap and stored in a cool, dry place but not refrigerated.
Once opened, use contents within one month.