A Holos Prime Deeper
Science Review

Nature created colostrum, we harnessed it's power and then amplified it by adding ac-11®

THE POWER OF

HOLOS PRIME

Holos Prime is exceptional not because of it’s new technology, but rather because it is a unique combination of deeply studied and proven components brought together for the first time in a combination that will be offered on a global basis!

As our flagship product, Holos Prime is a simple product that combines three incredible ingredients – two elite bovine colostrums and the unrivaled DNA repair extract ac-11®. All three are present in functional amounts in each recommended daily intake… with nothing else – no fillers, binders, or flavoring agents – just pure functional active ingredients!

Most exciting of all, due to a long-standing relationship with the only supplier in the world of one of the multi-patented ingredients, we have an exclusive global licensing agreement such that no one else in the world will be able to combine these ingredients and imitate this formulation of components!!

PRODUCT FAQ

How do I take it?

SUGGESTED USE: Mix 3 scoops per day in any cool liquid any time of day. Drink once per day or divide scoops in as many servings per day as you choose. If your digestive system is sensitive, begin with 1 scoop per day for a few days and then add a scoop for another few days. You want to build up to 3 scoops daily.

Can I take this product if I'm pregnant or nursing?

Delicate immune system changes occur following conception and during pregnancy. Specifically, there is a shift in certain T-cell dominance to inhibit the mother’s immune system from over-responding to the different DNA of the new life now inside her. Therefore, it is suggested that pregnant women should not start taking colostrum products without guidance from their physician.

Does this product contain casein?

Casein is a protein found in milk and colostrum. It is often the nutrient that many people with dairy intolerances react to. As such, some colostrum products mention having removed casein. The downside is that casein is also a source of the 9 Essential Amino Acids (EEAs) that the body needs but does NOT produce. So we decided to reduce but not eliminate the casein in Holos Prime.

Therefore, here is the better question: why do so many people with dairy intolerances do so well with Holos Prime colostrum? Simple. Colostrum is nature’s perfect whole food exclusively from early milking. Its greatness is not about a single nutrient but about the synergy of the whole… and unlike milk, colostrum contains peptides that temper allergic reactions by regulating the production of certain cytokines, thus preventing the production of antibodies that could cause the reaction.

However, we still recommend that individuals with these conditions may need to proceed carefully. We always recommend that anyone with a specific health circumstance first consult with their primary physician before starting the use of Holos Prime and do so with the guidance of their physician.

Can I take Holos Prime if I'm lactose intolerant?

Colostrum is considered to be nature’s perfect whole food and though it contains lactose, it is present in extremely low levels such that individuals with lactose intolerance typically experience no issues. Many even indicate that over time they no longer experience those types of issues.

However, we still recommend that individuals with these conditions may need to proceed carefully. We always recommend that anyone with a specific health circumstance first consult with their primary physician before starting the use of Holos Prime and do so with the guidance of their physician.

A SIMPLE OVERVIEW OF

ac-11® AND COLOSTRUM

ac-11@, backed by dozens of studies and 11 patents over the last 25 years, has been shown to be the only natural extract proven to enhance the body's ability to repair single and double strand DNA

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Colostrum is the life supporting complete superfood all mammalian mothers produce for their offspring during the first 48-72 hours after giving birth. The colostrums we use in Holos Prime are exclusively from first-day, ethically-collected**, bovine colostrum from grass-fed US-raised dairy cows. Often called Liquid Gold or Nature’s First Food, bovine colostrum is comprised of hundreds of perfectly balanced and integrated bioactive nutrients. Furthermore, bovine colostrum issupported by thousands of  studies from around the world regarding hundreds of health benefits for human adults and children, most importantly starting with enhanced gut and immune health.

** Ethically collected: When a cow gives birth, she produces significantly more colostrum each day than the calf can consume. Therefore, immediately after birth, the full amount of colostrum necessary to support the calf is collected first, and when the calf’s needs are secure, the additional first-day colostrum is collected for other uses. Additional science detail is provided in the various science sections below.

THE SCIENCE OF ac-11®

ac-11® is an all-natural, safe and effective aqueous extract of Uncaria Tomentosa, a medicinal plant indigenous to the Amazon rainforest. ac-11® is manufactured using a proprietary ultra-filtration process that produces a low weight (less than 10,000 Daltons) bioavailable, scientifically ideal alkaloid free (less than 0.05 ppm) extract. The patented filtration process standardizes Carboxy Alkyl Esters (CAEs), the biologically active ingredient in ac-11®, to minimum 8%.

Primary research has demonstrated ac-11®’s natural ability to help the body repair its own DNA. Additional studies have also demonstrated ac-11®’s ability to:

  • reduce proinflammatory cytokines,
  • encourage cell apoptosis (cellular death) of damaged cells,
  • enhance the immune system and
  • recent patents have been issued for its ability to also lengthen telomeres after 18-24 months of use.

Benefits of taking ac-11®

Studies have shown ac-11® to have the following therapeutic benefits including but not limited to:

  • Helping the body’s natural ability to repair its own DNA
  • Scavenger of free radicals while enhancing endogenous antioxidants
  • Enhancing the immune system by increasing the life cycle of white blood cells
  • Normalizing the expression of NF-KB, thereby down-regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines
  • Fine tunes the immune & inflammatory response to better defend against infections
  • Assists in maintaining a healthy telomere profile while also reducing the rate of truncation
  • Increasing production of natural collagen III, a form of collagen associated with soft, supple, youthful looking skin
  • Enhances memory, executive function and focus
  • Promotes cell apoptosis (cell death) in cells with irreparable damage
Difference between ac-11® and other Uncaria Tomentosa extracts

ac-11®differs from all other Uncaria Tomentosa extracts, most of which are sold under the common name “cat’s claw,” due to the patented ultra-filtration aqueous extraction process. This process yields a distinct molecular composition of a low weight, bioavailable (less than 10,000 Daltons), scientifically indole alkaloid free (less than 0.05 ppm) extract. By contrast, mild toxicity with long term use is often observable in other Uncaria tomentosa products, especially the water-insoluble, alkaloid based extracts. The research has shown ac-11® to be safe and effective. It is also the only known extract that helps the body repair its own DNA.

Importance of DNA

As the building block of life, DNA is essential to the optimal functioning of ALL life processes. DNA contains the genetic instructions for ALL processes within the body. Increasing evidence has shown DNA damage is a causative factor in accelerated aging and may be responsible for age onset disease.

Understanding natural DNA repair

Natural DNA repair involves a series of enzymatic processes that remove damage to our DNA caused by oxidative and non-oxidative stress. DNA repair preserves genetic integrity and maintains optimal cell function. These processes are homeostatic, in that they attempt to maintain a natural equilibrium in the body. The more efficient our natural DNA repair processes are, the longer and healthier our lives can be. However, as we age, our natural DNA repair processes become less efficient creating the potential for permanent damage and aging. Signs of aging, such as sagging skin or increased susceptibility to infection, are indicative of inefficient biological processes caused by accumulated DNA damage.

How ac-11® works

When ingested orally, ac-11® helps the body’s natural ability to repair its own DNA. It is believed ac-11® activates DNA repair enzymes located on Chromosome 11, which in turn facilitates the natural DNA repair process.

Is ac-11® safe and can I take it with my other medications?

Yes. The LD-50 of ac-11® is greater than 8,000mg/kilogram. What this indicates is that any amount of ac-11® taken that is less than 8000mg has been proven to be safe. The recommended daily dose of ac-11® for an adult weighing between 120 and 200 pounds (70-90 kilograms) is 350 and 700mg. A CYP 450 analysis, which determines the interaction between pharmaceutical agents and in this case ac-11®, has shown that ac-11® does not negatively interact with common pharmaceuticals and is safe to take with other medications.

Do our genes predetermine our life and health span?

Not necessarily.Our genetic inheritance does not guarantee that we will age exactly the same way as our family members, nor does it ensure that we must succumb to the same genetic-related diseases. We can avoid certain environmental and dietary pitfalls that are known to accelerate aging and that may promote or trigger the onset of certain genetically or environmentally-based diseases. For example, we can avoid too much sun, cigarettes, excessive alcohol consumption, and unnecessary exposure to environmental pollutants, as well as try to regulate daily stress in our lives. We can also choose a diet rich in antioxidants and supplement our nutritional intake in smart ways to minimize cellular damage and improve the built-in repair mechanisms in our cells. While antioxidants can help reduce the cellular damage and DNA damage that takes place daily, they cannot repair the damage that has already occurred. ac-11® is the first known natural product shown to improve DNA repair.

Clinical Studies

When ingested orally, ac-11® helps the body’s natural ability to repair its own DNA. It is believed ac-11® activates DNA repair enzymes located on Chromosome 11, which in turn facilitates the natural DNA repair process.

  1. Introduction of Apoptosis and Inhibition of Proliferation in Human Tumor Cells Treated with Extracts of Uncaria tomentosa. (Sheng, Pero, Amiri, and Bryngelsson: Anticancer Research 1998)
  2. Enhanced DNA repair, immune function and reduced toxicity of ac-11® (CMED-100®), a novel aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa. (Sheng, Bryngelsson and Pero: Journal of Ethnopharmacology 1999)
  3. Treatment of chemotherapy-induced leukopenia in a rat model with aqueous extract from Uncaria tomentosa. (Shen, Pero, Wagner: Phytomedicine 2000)
  4. DNA repair enhancement of aqueous extracts of Uncaria tomentosa in a human volunteer study. (Sheng, Homgren, Pero 2001)
  5. Persistent response to pneumococcal vaccine in individuals supplemented with a novel water soluble extract of Uncara tomentosa, C-Med-100®. (Lamm, Sheng and Pero: Phyomedicine 2001)
  6. Serum Thiols as a Surrogate Estimate of DNA Repair Correlates to Mammalian Life Span. (Pero, Hoppe, Sheng: Journal of Anti-aging Medicine, 2000)
  7. Identification and Quantification of Components in Extracts of Uncaria tomentosa by HPLC-ES/MS. (Montoro, Carbone, Quiroz, De Simone and Pizza: Phytochem anal. 2004)
  8. Surrogate Indication of DNA Repair in Serum After Long Term Chiropractic Intervention-Retrospective Study. (Campbell, Kent, Bane, Amiri, Pero: Journal Vertebral Subluxation Res. 2005)
  9. An extract of Uncaria tomentosa inhibiting cell division and NF-kB activity without inducing cell death. (Akesson, Lindgren, Pero, Leanderson, Ivars: International Immunopharmacology 2003)
  10. Quinic acid is a biologically active component of Uncaria tomentosa extract C-Med 100®. (Akesson, Lindgren, Pero, Leanderson, Ivars: International Immunopharmacology 2004)
  11. An active ingredient of Cat’s Claw water extracts Identification and efficacy of quinic acid. (Sheng, Akesson, Holmgren, Bryngelsson, Giampapa, Pero: Ethnopharmacology 2005)
  12. Brunswick Labs, Certificate of Analysis, ORAC Value ac-11®
  13. Formulation and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of combining DNA repair and immune enhancing nutritional supplements. (Pero, Amiri, Sheng, Welther and Rich: Phytomedicine 2005)
  14. Comparison of a Broad Spectrum Anti-Aging Nutritional Supplement with and without the Addition of a DNA Repair Enhancing Cat’s Claw Extract. (Pero, Giampapa and Vojdani: Journal of Anti-Aging Medicine 2002)
  15. Antioxidant Metabolism Induced by Quinic Acid. Increased urinary Excretion of Tryptophan and Nicotinamide, (Pero, Lund, Leanderson: Phytotherapy Research 2008)
  16. In Vivo Treatment of Humans with Quinic Acid Enhances DNA Repair and Reduces the Influence of Lifestyle Factors on Risk to Disease. (Pero, Lund: International Journal of Biotechnology and Biochemistry 2009)
  17. Historical Development of Uncaria Preparations and Their Related bioactive Components. (Pero: Nova Sciences Publishers, Chapter 10, 2010)
  18. Dietary Quinic Acid Supplied as a Nutritional Supplement AIO + ac-11® leads to Induction of Micromolar Levels of nicotinamide and Tryptophan in the Urine. (Pero, Lund: Phytotherapy Res. 2010)
  19. Carboxy alkyl esters of Uncaria tomentosa augment recovery of sensorineural functions following noise injury. (Guthrie, Gearhart, Fulton and Fechter: Brain Research 2011)
  20. Dynamic Compartmentalization of DNA Repair Proteins Within Spiral Ganglion Neurons in Response to Noise Stress Guthrie, International Journal of Neuroscience, 2012)
  21. Reduced Phosphorylation of Histone Variant H2Ax in the Organ of Corti is associated with Otoprotection from Noise Injury. (Guthrie and Xu, Otolaryngology, 2013)
  22. Preservation of Neural Sensitivity After Noise-Induced Suppression of Sensory Function (Guthrie, Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 2016)
  23. Noise Induced Hearing Loss (Guthrie, Xu)
  24. Neuroprotective effects of aqueous extracts of Uncaria tomentosa: Insights from 6-OHDA induced cell damage and transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans model. (Shi, Lu, Zhao, Wang, Wilson, Guan, Duan, Chang and Zhao: Neurochemistry International 2013)
  25. ac-11® claims substantiation document. (Zwiren 2010)
  26. Protectagen® (with ac-11®) Powerful Botanical Support for Inflammation, DNA Repair, Immune Function and Gastrointestinal Healing. (Product Monograph, Prothera Inc, 2010)
  27. Exposure to excessively strong sounds may injure the peripheral auditory organ, resulting in hearing loss. Although any sound—noise, speech, music—of sufficient intensity will damage hearing, such losses are often referred to as “noise-induced hearing loss” (NIHL). (2019)
  28. Studies designed to demonstrate improvement in cognitive functions including attention have deployed a large variety of approaches that can be categorized as pharmaceutical.(2023)

THE SCIENCE OF COLOSTRUM

Colostrum is nature’s perfect first food. It is the pre-milk substance that is produced by all mammalian mothers in the first few days after giving birth to ensure a newborn’s health, growth, and vitality. Colostrum is a mixture of immune and growth factors as well as other important nutrients, designed by nature to activate a newborn’s immune system, jumpstart gut function, and seed a healthy gut microbiome in the first few days of life. Numerous studies show that bovine colostrum and its components continue to support important biological activities when given to adults and mature animals, so that its benefits can extend well beyond the neonatal period of development.

How Bovine Colostrum Works

While human colostrum plays a vital role for newborns, bovine colostrum – or the first milk from dairy cows – has demonstrated benefits for human and animal health beyond the first few days of life. Cows are unable to pass key immune factors and other beneficial nutrients from mother to fetus during pregnancy. When the calf is born, it is completely dependent on the mother’s colostrum to survive. Thus bovine colostrum contains a higher concentration of immune factors and other protective nutrients than human colostrum. Bovine colostrum is also produced in large quantities by the mother cow, far exceeding the needs of the calf. Once the calf receives all the colostrum she needs, the rest can be collected for other uses.

Colostrum is rich in potent bioactives that enhance health and wellness in both humans and animals. Our ingredient partners are at the forefront of the industry, leveraging the latest research into the cellular and biomolecular processes of bovine colostrum.

COLOSTRUM BENEFITS

Digestive Health

Colostrum consists of a synergistic blend of bioactive compounds, such as immunoglobulins, growth factors, and oligosaccharides, promoting digestive well-being. These bioactives collaborate to uphold intestinal integrity, enhance nutrient absorption, and provide natural prebiotics, fostering a balanced gut environment in both adults and children.

Clinical research on Bovine Colostrum with adults indicates that it:

  • Facilitates the natural repair processes of the gut, restoring optimal functionality.
  • Alleviates occasional digestive disturbances by addressing the root cause and positively influencing the gut lining.
  • Enhances gut lining integrity by positively impacting all layers of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Promotes improved overall gut function.
Immune Support

Colostrum comprises a potent blend of bioactives that contribute to immune health, encompassing immunoglobulins, immune modulators, and oligosaccharides. These bioactives collaborate not only to bolster the immune system but also exhibit positive effects on respiratory health in both adults and children.

Clinical research involving Bovine Colostrum with adults has indicated that colostrum:

  • Reinforces the immune system.
  • Maintains a balanced immune response, promoting overall health.
  • Enhances respiratory well-being.
  • Supports and regulates the body’s inherent immune responses.
  • Safeguards and nurtures the gut, a pivotal site where over 70% of the immune system resides.
Sports Nutrition

Bovine colostrum is enriched with various bioactive components beneficial for sports nutrition, including immunoglobulins and growth factors. These bioactives collaborate to fortify the immune system during athletic training, promote cellular proliferation, aid in tissue repair, and enhance protein synthesis.

Clinical research investigating the advantages for athletes has indicated that bovine colostrum:

  • Reinforces a robust immune system during exercise.
  • Mitigates exercise-induced muscle damage in athletes.
  • Enhances performance in subsequent exercise sessions.
  • Supports the development of increased muscle mass.
  • Accelerates recovery from physical exertion.
  • Improves peak anaerobic power during training.
  • Sustains digestive function.
  • Delivers high-quality, readily absorbed protein along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Skin Health

Colostrum is gaining recognition as a novel method for promoting skin health. Rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and various essential bioactives, preliminary research suggests that colostrum plays a role in fostering skin cell regeneration, moderating immune responses in sensitive skin, and encouraging tissue repair.

Clinical studies involving applications have demonstrated that Bovine Colostrum:

  • Fosters the well-being of the skin.
  • Facilitates skin regeneration.
  • Aids in the healing process of the skin.

 

Colostrum is rich in potent bioactives that enhance health and wellness in both humans and animals. Our ingredient partners are at the forefront of the industry, leveraging the latest research into the cellular and biomolecular processes of bovine colostrum.

QUICK FACTS

Immunoglobulins

Key defenders in our body’s immune arsenal, these antibodies actively engage and neutralize invasive pathogens, fortifying your body’s natural defenses.

Cytokines

These small yet mighty peptide molecules play a crucial role in orchestrating and regulating your immune system’s response, ensuring a balanced and effective defense mechanism.

Lactoferrin

This iron-binding glycoprotein is a natural guardian, offering robust antiviral and antimicrobial protection, helping to shield your body from a variety of external threats.

Lysozyme

An essential enzyme that bolsters immune function, lysozyme specializes in targeting and breaking down specific microbes, reinforcing your body’s protective barriers.

Lactoperoxidase

A powerful antibacterial enzyme, lactoperoxidase serves as a frontline defender against microbial infections, safeguarding your health by maintaining a balanced and healthy microbial environment.

AND THERE'S MORE...

Essential Nutrients

Colostrum provides energy and nutrients. It is rich in energy-giving ingredients like carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Carbohydrates are naturally available in colostrum, along with vitamins and minerals like calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium and zinc.

Vitamins

Included are vitamins A, B2, B9, B12, and D. Vitamins are essential organic nutrients that, like minerals, work as catalysts or co-factors in biological functions. They are important for such processes as retinol development, transportation of important matter across cellular walls, and processing other nutrients.

Minerals and Ions

Essential minerals & ions include calcium, chloride, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc. Minerals act as catalysts in body functions such as metabolism and ATP formation. Minerals are also important building blocks of bone and teeth.

Carbohydrates

From simple sugars to complex oligosaccharides, carbohydrates are an important energy source and used in cellular recognition.

Amino Acids

Amino acids consist of a large number of compounds that are the building blocks of proteins through the linking of peptide bonds. Amino acids are important for nutrition and muscle development.

Proteins

Colostral protein provides essential nutritional components for muscle and tissue development. Help to provide energy.

A DEEPER DIVE INTO COLOSTRUM

IMMUNE FACTORS

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Immunoglobulins

Commonly known as antibodies, immunoglobulins are the immune system’s precision tools for identifying, attacking, and neutralizing external threats like bacteria and viruses. In the crucial early stages of life, the absorption of immunoglobulins is vital for the passive immunity of newborn mammals. Colostrum is a rich source of various immunoglobulins including IgG, IgA, IgM, IgD, and IgE, each playing a unique and critical role in immune defense.

  • IgG: Predominant in bovine colostrum, IgG forms a substantial part of the body’s defense mechanism against pathogens. It not only provides immediate immunity but also triggers other immune functions.
  • IgA: Positioned in critical areas such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urogenital tracts, IgA is pivotal in mucosal immunity. It acts as a first line of defense, preventing harmful pathogens from establishing themselves in these sensitive areas.
  • IgM: Known as the body’s initial responder, IgM swiftly reacts to pathogens upon their entry. It plays a crucial role in attacking and neutralizing bacteria, thereby rendering them inactive.
  • IgE: This immunoglobulin is essential in managing allergenic reactions and plays a significant part in responding to parasitic infections, particularly within the digestive system.
  • IgD: Working in tandem with IgM, IgD is instrumental in signaling B cells – a type of white blood cell – to spring into action. Once activated, B cells collaborate with other immunoglobulins to enhance the body’s immune response and develop specificity against various antigens. This cooperative action is a critical aspect of the adaptive immune system, helping the body to recognize and remember specific threats for more efficient responses in future encounters.

 

Each of these immunoglobulins contributes to a robust and multifaceted immune defense, illustrating the complex and powerful protective qualities of colostrum. Through its diverse array of immunoglobulins, colostrum not only provides immediate defense mechanisms but also contributes to the long-term adaptability and effectiveness of the body’s immune response.

Cytokines

Present in abundance in colostrum, cytokines are sophisticated biological response modifiers. These signaling molecules, which can be proteins, peptides, or glycoproteins, play a critical role in cellular communication. They are instrumental in regulating various processes such as the growth and development of epithelial cells, including the crucial functions of managing intestinal inflammation and aiding in the restoration of epithelial integrity after mucosal damage.

Colostrum boasts a wide array of cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-1ra. These small yet potent peptide molecules are key players in the orchestration of immune and inflammatory responses. In newborns, cytokines work synergistically with maternal immunoglobulins and other non-specific antibacterial components in colostrum, providing comprehensive protection and support for developing immune systems.

Their role extends beyond mere defense; cytokines are major regulators in both preventing and repairing intestinal inflammation and damage. This intricate balance of protection and healing underscores their significance in maintaining gut health, a critical aspect of overall well-being. Colostrum’s rich cytokine content exemplifies its profound impact on both immediate and long-term immune function and gut health.

Through these diverse functions, cytokines in colostrum represent a vital component of the body’s natural defense and repair mechanisms, contributing significantly to the maintenance of health and resilience from the earliest stages of life.

COLOSTRUM BENEFITS

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Lactoferrin

A key antimicrobial warrior within the immune system, lactoferrin plays a crucial role in combatting bacteria and fungi. Its unique ability to bind metal ions, which are essential for bacterial metabolism, effectively starves and inhibits bacterial growth. This mechanism is particularly effective against harmful microbes such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, as well as other pathogens like Shigella dysenteria and Streptococcus mutans.

Lactoferrin’s protective scope extends to antiviral activities, where it has shown efficacy against viruses including herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), and human cytomegalovirus. Beyond its antimicrobial and antiviral roles, lactoferrin is instrumental in iron absorption in the intestines and in activating phagocytes, key components of the immune response.

As an immune mediator, lactoferrin modulates the responses of target cells, particularly in relation to oxidative stress and systemic inflammatory responses. It exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory effect, with clinical studies highlighting its ability to inactivate lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines in the skin. This suggests that lactoferrin not only defends against pathogens but also plays a significant role in managing inflammation, making it a multifaceted ally in maintaining health and wellness.

Lysozyme

This potent antibacterial enzyme is a vital component of the immune system, known for its ability to breach the cell walls of harmful bacteria, thereby supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Lysozyme operates not in isolation but synergistically with other key components in colostrum, such as lactoperoxidase, lactoferrin, and IgA, amplifying its antimicrobial efficacy.

The effectiveness of lysozyme extends to specific bacteria and fungi, targeting them for destruction. Its interaction with other colostrum components like lactoperoxidase, lactoferrin, and IgA creates a powerful blend of antimicrobial agents. This synergy enhances the overall protective capabilities of colostrum, making it a formidable defense against microbial invaders.

At the core of lysozyme’s function is its natural affinity for the peptidoglycan layer found in bacterial cell walls. By degrading this layer, lysozyme triggers the lysis, or breakdown, of the bacterial cell wall, effectively neutralizing the threat posed by these harmful bacteria. This targeted action of lysozyme not only bolsters immune function but also contributes to a comprehensive antimicrobial defense system within the body.

Lactoperoxidase

This crucial antibacterial enzyme, abundant in colostrum, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the lactating mammary gland from infections. Notably, lactoperoxidase doesn’t act alone; it works in concert with lactoferrin to amplify its antibacterial prowess, creating a formidable defense against microbial threats.

Lactoperoxidase’s protective scope extends beyond bacteria to include viruses. Certain viruses, like polioviruses, are particularly susceptible to its toxic effects, showcasing its potent antiviral capabilities. This enzyme’s primary function revolves around defending against microbial infections, but its benefits reach even further.

It is known for its ability to degrade various carcinogens, offering a layer of protection against certain cancer-causing agents. Additionally, lactoperoxidase contributes to the protection of animal cells from peroxidative damage, underscoring its role in maintaining cellular health.

On a molecular level, lactoperoxidase executes its antibacterial action by oxidizing essential sulfhydryl groups in proteins, effectively inhibiting bacterial metabolism. This mechanism of action has been shown to be effective in inactivating not just poliovirus, but also other significant pathogens such as vaccinia virus and HIV-1.

GROWTH AND REPAIR FACTORS

Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGFs)

These are the most abundant growth factors found in bovine colostrum, playing a critical role in growth and development. Comprising single-chain polypeptides with amino acids, IGFs are pivotal during childhood growth and continue to exert anabolic effects in adults, aiding in tissue building and repair.

Notably stable under heat and acidic conditions, IGFs are essential mediators of cellular growth, development, and differentiation. The amino acid sequence of purified bovine IGF-I interestingly mirrors that of human IGF-I, underscoring its relevance and compatibility with human physiology.

In the realm of nutrition, dietary IGF-I can actively stimulate cell proliferation within the gastrointestinal tract, contributing to gut health and integrity. These dietary IGFs may not only directly impact the epithelial cells lining the gastrointestinal tract but also have the potential to be absorbed into circulation, extending their influence beyond local action.

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)

This vital component plays a pivotal role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. EGF is a member of a family of growth factors known for their ability to influence the development of various tissues including the epidermis, mammary glands, and the gastrointestinal tract.

One of its key functions is to stimulate the body’s repair mechanisms, particularly at sites of inflammation. This makes EGF instrumental in accelerating the healing process and restoring tissue integrity. Furthermore, EGF plays a crucial role in bolstering gut immunity and preventing the translocation of bacteria, thereby enhancing the body’s natural defense systems.

Notably, EGF acts as an anabolic growth factor and may have differentiation-inducing effects on the intestinal epithelium of newborns. This suggests potential therapeutic applications of recombinant EGF and EGF analogs in the repair and recovery of damaged gastrointestinal tissues. The supplementation of EGF could be particularly beneficial in aiding the recovery of gastric and intestinal tissues that have undergone trauma or injury.

Transforming Growth Factor Alpha (TGF-α)

This growth factor is essential in maintaining the delicate balance between cell proliferation and differentiation in the intestinal epithelium. It works in tandem with TGF-β, playing a complementary role in this vital process. TGF-α is particularly known for its ability to stimulate gastrointestinal growth and facilitate repair mechanisms.

When administered systematically, TGF-α has multiple beneficial effects on gastrointestinal health. It stimulates growth and repair in the gastrointestinal tract, effectively inhibits acid secretion, and aids in mucosal restitution following injury. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in increasing gastric mucin concentrations, which is vital for protecting the stomach lining.

A significant aspect of TGF-α’s function is its upregulation in response to injury within the gastrointestinal mucosa. This response underscores its role in promoting mucosal growth and repair. In the broader physiological context, TGF-α acts as a mucosal-integrity peptide, crucial in maintaining the normal function of epithelia in the non-damaged mucosa.

Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β)

A pivotal player in the body’s healing and development processes, TGF-β is instrumental in tissue regeneration, cell differentiation, and the formation of bone and cartilage. It also plays a key role in regulating the immune system, showcasing its multifaceted influence on overall health and wellness.

TGF-β exhibits a unique dual action depending on the cell type and context. It stimulates the proliferation of certain cells, particularly in connective tissue, making it vital for tissue repair and regeneration. Conversely, it can act as a growth inhibitor for other cell types, demonstrating its regulatory capabilities in cellular development.

In scenarios of injury or disease, TGF-β works synergistically with EGF to promote cell proliferation. This collaboration is essential for kick-starting the repair process, especially during the early phase of restitution. Restitution involves surviving cells migrating over a wound to re-establish epithelial continuity, a process in which TGF-β is a key contributor.

Moreover, TGF-β plays a crucial protective role by regulating the synthesis of proteases, preventing the destruction of newly synthesized cells during the healing process. This regulatory function is particularly important in preserving the integrity of new tissues as they form and mature.

Both TGF-α and TGF-β are significant in maintaining and restoring the epithelium of the gastrointestinal tract. Their combined actions ensure the integrity and proper functioning of this vital system, highlighting their importance in digestive health and recovery from gastrointestinal injuries.

Oligosaccharides and Glycoconjugates

Oligosaccharides are defined as carbohydrates which contain between three and ten monosaccharide residues, covalently linked through glycosidic bonds and are divided into two broad classes, neutral and acidic.

Oligosaccharides act as a prebiotic as they are neither digested nor absorbed in the upper intestinal tract of humans but are delivered intact into the colon where they can act as nutrients for colonic microflora.

Specific oligosaccharides support the growth of beneficial bacteria and modulate the microbiome.

Oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates in milk and colostrum are soluble receptor analogues of epithelial cell-surface carbohydrates and can therefore compete with virulent bacteria and viruses for attachment sites.

Sialylated oligosaccharides have been shown to inhibit binding of pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli in neonates and many other pathogens.

Adhesion to epithelial cells by ulcer-causing human pathogen Heliobacter pylori is inhibited by sialylated oligosaccharides.

ADDITIONAL SCIENCE AND RESEARCH

Clinical Studies

With over 5000+ studies over the years regarding the health implications of colostrum in both human and animal models, your ongoing research can be quite an undertaking. Below is simply a small sampling of the myriad benefits that Nature’s First Food and its components have been shown to provide. This is just to give you a glimpse of the many diverse ways colostrum can assist in your pursuit of Physical Wholeness.

  • Bagwe, Siddhi., Tharappel, Leo J. P., Kaur, Ginpreet, Buttar, Harpal S. “Bovine Colostrum: An Emerging Nutraceutical”. September 2015; doi: 10.1515/jcim-2014-0039; PMID: 25781716
  • Dziewiecka, H., et al. “A Systematic Review of the Influence of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation on Leaky Gut Syndrome in Athletes: Diagnostic Biomarkers and Future Directions”. June 2022. doi: 10.3390/nu14122512; PMID: 3574542; PMCID: PMC9227274
  • Struff, W.G., Sprotte, G. “Bovine Colostrum as a Biologic in Clinical Medicine: A Review – Part II: Clinical Studies”; May 2008; doi: 10.5414/cpp46211; PMID: 18538107
  • Antonietta Lucia Conte, et al. “Effect of bovine lactoferrin on recurrent urinary tract infections: in vitro and in vivo evidences”. Biometals. 2023 Jun 36(3):491-507; doi: 10.1007/s10534-022-00409-1; PMID: 35768747
  • Belcaro, G., Cesarone, M.R., Cornelli, U., Pellegini, L., Ledda, A., Grossi, M.G., Dugall, M., Ruffini, I., Fano, F., Ricci, A., Stuard, S., Luzzi, R., Grossi, M.G., Hosoi, M. “Prevention of Flu Episodes with Colostrum and Bifir Compared with Vaccination: An Epidemiological, Registry Study”. December 2010; PMID: 21183886
  • Cesarone, M.R., et al. “Prevention of Influenza Episodes with Colostrum Compared with Vaccination in Healthy and High-Risk Cardiovascular Subjects: The Epidemiologic Study in San Valentino”. April 2007; doi: 10.1177/1076029606295957; PMID: 17456621
  • Puricelli C, Rolla R, Gigliotti L, Boggio E, Beltrami E, Dianzani U, Keller R. “The Gut-Brain-Immune Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A State-of-Art Report.” Front Psychiatry. 2022 Feb 3 12:755171; doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.755171; PMID: 35185631; PMCID: PMC8850385
  • Hałasa M, Skonieczna-Żydecka K, Machaliński B, Bühner L, Baśkiewicz-Hałasa M. “Six Weeks of Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum Effectively Reduces URTIs Symptoms Frequency and Gravity for Up to 20 Weeks in Pre-School Children.” Nutrients. 2023 Aug 18;15(16):3626. doi: 10.3390/nu15163626; PMID: 37630816; PMCID: PMC10459079
  • Antonio, J., et al. “The Effects of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation on Body Composition and Exercise Performance in Active Men and Women”. Nutrition. 2001 Mar;17(3):243-7; doi: 10.1016/s0899-9007(00)00552-9; PMID: 11312068.
  • Davison G. The Use of Bovine Colostrum in Sport and Exercise. Nutrients. 2021 May 24 13(6):1789; doi: 10.3390/nu13061789. PMID: 34073917; PMCID: PMC8225123.
  • Han, G., et al. “The Potential of Bovine Colostrum-Derived Exosomes to Repair Aged and Damaged Skin Cells”. January 2022; doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020307; PMID: 35214040; PMCID: PMC8877896
  • Trueb, Ralph M. “Further Clinical Evidence for the Effect of IGF-1 on Hair Growth and Alopecia”. August 2017; doi: 10.1159/000479333; PMID: 29765966; PMCID: PMC5939720
  • Kim, H., et al. “Potential of Colostrum-Derived Exosomes for Promoting Hair Regeneration Through the Transition from Telogen to Anagen Phase”. March 2022; doi: 10.3389/fcell.2022.815205; PMID: 353359449; PMCID: PMC896025
  • Artym, J., Zimecki, M. “Colostrum Proteins in Protection Against Therapy-Induced Injuries inn Cancer Chemo – and Radiotherapy: A Comprehensive Review”. January 2023; doi: 10.3390/biomedicines11010114; PMID: 36672622; PMCID: PMC9856106
  • Alsayed, Ahmad R., Hasoun, Luai Z., Khader, Heba A., Basheti, Iman A., Permana, Andi Dian, “Bovine Colostrum Treatment of Specific Cancer Types: Current Evidence and Future Opportunities”. December 2022; doi 10.3390/molecules2724864; PMID: 36557775; PMCID: PMC9785718
  • Ashok Y. Kshirsagar. “A Comparative Study of Colostrum Dressing Versus Conventional Dressing in Deep Wounds”; J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 Apr; 9(4): PC01–PC04. Published online 2015 Apr 1; doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2015/12004.5739; PMID: 26023589; PMCID: PMC4437104;
  • Hatice Duman and Sercan Karav; “Bovine colostrum and its potential contributions for treatment and prevention of COVID-19”; Front Pharmacol. 2023; 14: 1214514. Published online 2023 Oct 16; doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1214514; PMID: 37908368; PMCID: PMC10613682
  • Siddhi Bagwe-Parab, et al. “Therapeutic Applications of Human and Bovine Colostrum in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases and Distinctive Cancer Types: The Current Evidence”. Front Pharmacol. 2020 Sep 11:11:01100; doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01100; PMCID: PMC7533576