Benefits
Immune defense
In clinical research, bovine lactoferrin supplementation reduced infections, supporting lactoferrin's role in frontline immune defense.
Iron balance
Lactoferrin binds and helps regulate iron, supporting healthy iron status and limiting iron available to harmful microbes.
Gut health
By binding iron and acting on microbes, lactoferrin supports a healthier balance of gut bacteria and a strong intestinal barrier.
Mechanism of action
Iron sequestration
Lactoferrin binds free iron, starving harmful bacteria of the iron they need to grow while supporting the body's own iron handling.
Immunomodulation
Lactoferrin interacts with immune cells and microbial surfaces, providing antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune-supporting activity.
Clinical trials
Randomized clinical trial of bovine lactoferrin supplementation for prevention of infection in vulnerable neonates. (Manzoni et al. 2014, Early Human Development)
High-risk neonates.
Bovine lactoferrin reduced serious infections versus placebo, demonstrating lactoferrin's immune-protective activity.