Research

Colostrum

118 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

16
Meta-analyses
9
Systematic reviews
88
RCTs
5
Other studies
Meta-analyses (14%)
Systematic reviews (8%)
RCTs (75%)
Observational (1%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2025·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Aamer Imdad, John R Nelson, Emily E Tanner-Smith, et al

Interventions for preventing diarrhoea-associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome.

Systematic reviewn = 536

This systematic review updates the 2021 Cochrane review on interventions for preventing haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) in patients with diarrhoea due to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). It includes four studies with 536 participants, assessing antibiotics, bovine colostrum, Shiga toxin binding agent (Synsorb Pk), and monoclonal antibodies (Urtoxazumab). The review found very low-certainty evidence regarding the effectiveness of these interventions in reducing HUS incidence, with no new studies included in the 2025 update.

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2025·mSystems·Lin Yang, Yan Hui, Per Torp Sangild, et al

Gut microbiota development in very preterm infants following fortification of human milk.

RCTn = 225Gut Health Nutrition -

RCT of 225 very preterm infants comparing the effects of bovine colostrum and conventional fortifiers on gut microbiota development. The study found that fortifier type modestly affected microbial community structure, with no significant differences in specific taxa between groups. Birth mode had a temporary influence on gut microbiota.

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2025·La Pediatria medica e chirurgica : Medical and surgical pediatrics·Chiara Oreglio, Sara Ugolini, Antonino Morabito

Does colostrum play a role in intestinal adaptation? A systematic review of literature.

Systematic reviewGut Health -

Systematic review investigating the role of colostrum in enhancing intestinal adaptation in patients with Short Bowel Syndrome. The review included 10 studies, with no clear benefits of colostrum reported in both animal and human populations. Further research is needed to determine its clinical use in nutritional programs.

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2025·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Deshna Oswal, Mubashir Angolkar, N S Mahantashetti, et al

Effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on gut health of children: A systematic review.

Systematic reviewGut Health

Systematic review assessing the impact of bovine colostrum on gut health in children. Some studies reported a positive impact on diarrheal infection, but overall clinical benefits remain inconclusive due to methodological heterogeneity.

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2024·Systematic reviews·Parisa Hajihashemi, Fahimeh Haghighatdoost, Nazila Kassaian, et al

Therapeutics effects of bovine colostrum applications on gastrointestinal diseases: a systematic review.

Systematic reviewn = 1,427Gut Health

This systematic review summarized findings from 22 clinical trials on the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on gastrointestinal diseases. Diarrhea frequency decreased in 15 out of 20 interventional arms, but most studies reported no change in its duration. Bovine colostrum consistently reduced stool frequency, while abdominal pain relief was noted in some studies but not others.

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2024·Infection·Ole Bæk, Tik Muk, Lise Aunsholt, et al

Systemic immune markers and infection risk in preterm infants fed human milk fortified with bovine colostrum or conventional fortifier, a secondary analysis of the FortiColos trial.

RCTn = 229Immunity

Secondary analysis of a multicenter RCT comparing bovine colostrum (BC) to conventional fortifier in very preterm infants. BC-fortified infants showed more infection episodes and higher cumulative infection risk, particularly in small for gestational age infants. BC was associated with a delayed shift from T2- to T1-biased systemic immunity.

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2024·Pediatric research·Kristine Holgersen, Martin Bo Rasmussen, Itay Zamir, et al

Glucose-regulatory hormones and growth in very preterm infants fed fortified human milk.

RCTn = 225Nutrition

RCT of 225 very preterm infants comparing fortification with bovine colostrum (BC) versus conventional fortifier. BC fortification increased plasma concentrations of glucose-regulatory hormones like GLP-1, GIP, glucagon, and leptin. IGF-1 levels were positively associated with growth, while leptin was negatively associated.

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2024·Italian journal of pediatrics·Marwa Mohamed Farag, Mohamed Alaa Eldin Hassan Thabet, Islam Sh Ahmed, et al

Do preterm infants' retinas like bovine colostrum? A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 211Inflammation Nutrition

RCT of 211 preterm infants comparing bovine colostrum with liposomal delivery system to standard care. Bovine colostrum group had a significantly lower incidence of retinopathy of prematurity, decreased serum C-reactive protein levels, increased weight gain, and higher hemoglobin levels.

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2024·Digestive diseases and sciences·Parisa Hajihashemi, Fahimeh Haghighatdoost, Nazila Kassaian, et al

Bovine Colostrum in Increased Intestinal Permeability in Healthy Athletes and Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

Meta-analysisGut Health

This meta-analysis of ten randomized clinical trials evaluated the impact of bovine colostrum on intestinal permeability. The results showed a significant reduction in the urinary lactulose/rhamnose and lactulose/mannitol ratios after bovine colostrum consumption, indicating improved gut barrier function.

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2023·Nutrition reviews·Jogender Kumar, Jitendra Meena, Ankit Ranjan, et al

Oropharyngeal application of colostrum or mother's own milk in preterm infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 4,106Immunity Nutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 RCTs involving 4106 preterm infants, examining the effects of oropharyngeal application of colostrum or mother's own milk. The intervention significantly reduced the incidence of sepsis and any stage of necrotizing enterocolitis, and accelerated the time to full enteral feeds. Evidence suggests beneficial effects on immunity and nutrition in preterm neonates.

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2023·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Rajendra Prasad Anne, Jogender Kumar, Praveen Kumar, et al

Effect of oropharyngeal colostrum therapy on neonatal sepsis in preterm neonates: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 2,393Immunity Nutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of oropharyngeal colostrum application (OPCA) in preterm neonates. OPCA significantly reduced the incidence of culture-proven sepsis, mortality, necrotizing enterocolitis, feeding intolerance episodes, and time to full enteral feeding. The certainty of evidence was high for sepsis and mortality outcomes.

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2023·International journal of nursing studies·Zhen Yan Fu, Chi Huang, Lei Lei, et al

The effect of oropharyngeal colostrum administration on the clinical outcomes of premature infants: A meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,736Immunity Nutrition

Meta-analysis of 16 RCTs involving 1736 preterm infants showed that oropharyngeal colostrum administration reduced the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, feeding intolerance, and mortality. It also shortened the time to full enteral feeding and led to faster recovery to birth weight.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2023·Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland)·Xudong Yan, Xiaoyu Pan, Lu Ding, et al

Bovine colostrum to supplement the first feeding of very preterm infants: The PreColos randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 350Nutrition -

This multicenter randomized controlled trial studied the effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on enteral feeding progression in very preterm infants. The study found that bovine colostrum supplementation did not reduce the time to full enteral feeding compared to preterm formula, and there were no significant differences in body growth or morbidities, although more cases of periventricular leukomalacia were detected in the bovine colostrum group.

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2023·Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland)·Agnethe May Ahnfeldt, Lise Aunsholt, Bo Moelholm Hansen, et al

Bovine colostrum as a fortifier to human milk in very preterm infants - A randomized controlled trial (FortiColos).

RCTn = 232Nutrition

RCT investigating the use of bovine colostrum as a fortifier to human milk in very preterm infants. The study found similar growth outcomes between bovine colostrum and conventional fortifier groups, but bovine colostrum infants received more protein and showed elevated plasma amino acid levels.

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2023·Journal of dairy science·A Rabaza, M Fraga, A Mendoza, et al

A meta-analysis of the effects of colostrum heat treatment on colostral viscosity, immunoglobulin G concentration, and the transfer of passive immunity in newborn dairy calves.

Meta-analysisImmunity

Meta-analysis of the effects of colostrum heat treatment on colostral viscosity, IgG concentration, and transfer of passive immunity in newborn dairy calves. Heat-treated colostrum had higher viscosity and lower IgG concentration compared to raw colostrum. Calves fed heat-treated colostrum at ≤60°C showed increased serum IgG concentrations, but higher temperatures reduced IgG levels.

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2022·Frontiers in pediatrics·Mengyue Huo, Chunli Liu, Hua Mei, et al

Intervention Effect of Oropharyngeal Administration of Colostrum in Preterm Infants: A Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,173Gut Health Immunity Nutrition

Meta-analysis of 11 RCTs involving 1,173 preterm infants evaluating oropharyngeal administration of colostrum. The study found that colostrum reduced the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and ventilator-associated pneumonia, shortened the time to reach full enteral feeds and hospital stay, and increased the rate of weight gain.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2022·Journal of human lactation : official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association·Tamy Colonetti, Isabela de Carvalho Florêncio, Pâmela Figueiredo, et al

Colostrum Use and the Immune System of Premature Newborns: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 996Immunity

Systematic review and meta-analysis of colostrum therapy in premature infants, focusing on its influence on the immune system. The review included 12 studies with 996 participants and found that colostrum increases lactoferrin levels in the urine of premature newborns after 1 week of intervention.

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2022·Nutrients·Susanne Soendergaard Kappel, Per Torp Sangild, Agnethe May Ahnfeldt, et al

A Randomized, Controlled Study to Investigate How Bovine Colostrum Fortification of Human Milk Affects Bowel Habits in Preterm Infants (FortiColos Study).

RCTn = 242Gut Health

RCT of 242 preterm infants comparing bovine colostrum to a conventional fortifier in human milk. Bovine colostrum improved bowel habits, with softer stools and delayed need for laxatives compared to conventional fortifier.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2022·Nutrients·Rahul Mehra, Renu Garhwal, Karnam Sangwan, et al

Insights into the Research Trends on Bovine Colostrum: Beneficial Health Perspectives with Special Reference to Manufacturing of Functional Foods and Feed Supplements.

Systematic review

This systematic review explores recent research on bovine colostrum, focusing on the effects of processing techniques, isolation and identification of novel components, and its use in functional foods and animal feed supplements. It highlights the role of BC in promoting health and preventing chronic illnesses.

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2022·Nutrients·Hanna Dziewiecka, Harpal S Buttar, Anna Kasperska, et al

A Systematic Review of the Influence of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation on Leaky Gut Syndrome in Athletes: Diagnostic Biomarkers and Future Directions.

Systematic reviewGut Health

Systematic review assessing the influence of bovine colostrum supplementation on gut permeability in athletes. The review found that BC supplementation helps to reverse gut permeability issues caused by vigorous exercise.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2021·Revista de saude publica·Michelle de Santana Xavier Ramos, Camilla da Cruz Martins, Elivan Silva Souza, et al

Oropharyngeal colostrum immunotherapy and nutrition in preterm newborns: meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 764Nutrition

Meta-analysis of oropharyngeal colostrum immunotherapy in very low birth weight preterm newborns (VLBW-PTNB) to reduce time to full enteral nutrition. Analysis included 5 studies with 764 VLBW-PTNB, showing a mean reduction of 4.26 days to achieve full nutrition compared to placebo or routine care.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2021·The Cochrane database of systematic reviews·Aamer Imdad, Samuel P Mackoff, David M Urciuoli, et al

Interventions for preventing diarrhoea-associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome.

Meta-analysisn = 536

This meta-analysis reviewed interventions for preventing haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) in patients with diarrhoea due to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). It included studies on antibiotics, anti-Shiga toxin antibody-containing bovine colostrum, Shiga toxin binding agent (Synsorb Pk), and monoclonal antibody (urtoxazumab). The evidence was very low certainty, and no firm conclusions about the efficacy of these interventions could be drawn.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2021·The American journal of clinical nutrition·Tatiana Bierut, Laura Duckworth, Mark Grabowsky, et al

The effect of bovine colostrum/egg supplementation compared with corn/soy flour in young Malawian children: a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

RCTn = 277Nutrition

RCT comparing bovine colostrum with egg powder supplementation to corn/soy flour in Malawian infants. The BC/egg group showed less linear growth faltering and a lower prevalence of stunting compared to the control group. No significant differences were found in episodes of diarrhea or fecal microbiota diversity.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2021·International breastfeeding journal·Xia OuYang, Chang-Yi Yang, Wen-Long Xiu, et al

Oropharyngeal administration of colostrum for preventing necrotizing enterocolitis and late-onset sepsis in preterm infants with gestational age ≤ 32 weeks: a pilot single-center randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 252Immunity Gut Health

A pilot single-center RCT evaluated the effect of oropharyngeal administration of colostrum (OAC) in preterm infants with gestational age ≤32 weeks. The study found that OAC reduced the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and severe intraventricular hemorrhage, and shortened the time to achieve full enteral feeding compared to a control group receiving saline.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2021·Nutrients·Monica Guberti, Stefano Botti, Maria Teresa Capuzzo, et al

Bovine Colostrum Applications in Sick and Healthy People: A Systematic Review.

Systematic reviewImmunity Gut Health Womens Health

Systematic review of 28 studies on bovine colostrum effects in healthy and sick subjects. Bovine colostrum showed benefits in preventing upper respiratory illness in sportsmen, modulating immune response, and reducing intestinal permeability. Topical application was effective for vaginal dryness symptoms. Results were heterogeneous and further studies are needed.

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2020·European journal of clinical nutrition·Jiaxin Tao, Jing Mao, Jixin Yang, et al

Effects of oropharyngeal administration of colostrum on the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and death in preterm infants: a meta-analysis of RCTs.

Meta-analysisn = 689Immunity

Meta-analysis of nine RCTs with 689 preterm infants assessing oropharyngeal administration of colostrum (OAC) on necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, and mortality. OAC showed no significant reduction in these incidences but reduced time to full enteral feeding and hospital stay, suggesting a trend toward positive effects.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2020·Pediatric research·Aijia Ma, Jing Yang, Yang Li, et al

Oropharyngeal colostrum therapy reduces the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in very low birth weight infants: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 682Immunity Nutrition

A meta-analysis of 8 RCTs involving 682 very low birth weight infants found that oropharyngeal colostrum therapy significantly reduced the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia and necrotizing enterocolitis. The therapy also showed potential benefits in reducing mortality and sepsis.

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2020·Nutrients·Natalia Główka, Krzysztof Durkalec-Michalski, Małgorzata Woźniewicz

Immunological Outcomes of Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Trained and Physically Active People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 239Immunity -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 RCTs with 239 participants examining the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on immunological outcomes in athletes and physically active adults. The results indicate that BC supplementation has no or low impact on serum immunoglobulins, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and saliva immunoglobulin in this population.

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2019·Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.)·Harshad Panchal, Gayatri Athalye-Jape, Sanjay Patole

Oropharyngeal Colostrum for Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,006Immunity -Nutrition -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of oropharyngeal colostrum (OPC) administration in preterm infants, including 6 RCTs and 4 non-RCTs. Meta-analysis showed no significant benefit for necrotizing enterocolitis, sepsis, mortality, hospital stay duration, or time to full feeds. OPC increased secretory IgA and lactoferrin concentrations but had no adverse effects.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2018·Pediatrics·Behnam Sadeghirad, Rebecca L Morgan, Dena Zeraatkar, et al

Human and Bovine Colostrum for Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 385Gut Health -

Meta-analysis of eight studies with 385 infants comparing human and bovine colostrum to placebo for preventing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants. Colostrum showed no effect on severe NEC, mortality, sepsis, or feed intolerance, but reduced the mean days to reach full enteral feed.

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2026·Nutrients·Ervine Chastine Marind, Fiona McCullough

Gut Health Responses to Nutritional Interventions in Paediatric Crohn's Disease, Including the Potential Outcomes of Mucosal Barrier Preservation: A Systematic Review.

Systematic reviewGut Health

Systematic review of dietary interventions in pediatric Crohn's disease, focusing on mucosal barrier preservation. Bovine colostrum milk showed improvement in mucosal integrity, while other dietary approaches had mixed effects on intestinal inflammation and nutritional status.

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2025·Breastfeeding medicine : the official journal of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine·Elif Ceren Oruc, Kiymet Celık, Sema Arayici, et al

Effect of Oral Colostrum Administration Duration on Clinical Outcomes in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 138Gut Health Immunity Nutrition

RCT investigating the effect of oral colostrum administration duration on clinical outcomes in preterm infants. The study found that colostrum administration improved feeding tolerance, reduced late-onset sepsis, and enhanced exclusive breastfeeding rates at discharge, although the effect on necrotizing enterocolitis was not significant.

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2025·The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume·Faezeh Gouhari, Zahra Vahdat Shariatpanahi, Shahin Talebi, et al

Therapeutic Effects of Bovine Colostrum on Bone Healing, Rehabilitation, and Postoperative Complications: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blinded Comparative Trial.

RCTn = 116Joint Bone Health Recovery

Prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial comparing bovine colostrum to whey protein in 116 patients with extracapsular hip fracture. The colostrum group showed significantly greater improvements in bone healing and physical rehabilitation outcomes over 3 months compared to the whey group.

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2025·Neonatology·Hoda Atef Abdelsattar Ibrahim, Khaled Elkhashab, Iman Khaled Ayada, et al

The Effect of Oral Immunotherapy on Preterm Neonates: A Promising Adjuvant Therapy in a Clinical Trial Study.

RCTn = 96Immunity Nutrition

This RCT investigated the effects of oropharyngeal colostrum delivery in preterm neonates <34 weeks of gestation on hospital outcomes. Neonates receiving colostrum showed significantly reduced median hospital stays, time to reach full enteral intake, and sepsis rates compared to the control group. No significant difference in NEC incidence was found among the groups.

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2025·Scientific reports·Neda Behrooj, Parvin Aziznejadroshan, Zahra Akbarian Rad, et al

Investigating the effect of oropharyngeal colostrum in the prevention of late-onset sepsis in preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 70Immunity Nutrition

RCT conducted at Rouhani Hospital with 70 preterm infants to assess the effect of oropharyngeal colostrum on preventing late-onset sepsis. The intervention group received colostrum every three hours for seven days, showing a 55% lower relative risk of sepsis, though not statistically significant. The intervention group achieved full enteral feeding significantly faster.

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2025·Journal of neonatal-perinatal medicine·Marwa Taha, Mai Mohamed Mostafa, Fifi Helmy, et al

Does oral care with mother's colostrum reduce the risk of late-onset sepsis in preterm infants? A randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 65Immunity Nutrition

A randomized clinical trial on 65 very-low-birth-weight preterm neonates assessed the effect of oral care with mother's colostrum on late-onset sepsis and mortality. The colostrum group showed reduced risks of late-onset sepsis, ventilator-associated pneumonia, feeding intolerance, and mortality, with faster time to enteral nutrition and shorter hospital stays.

PubMedRead on PubMed
2024·Nature communications·Kanta Chandwe, Mutsa Bwakura-Dangarembizi, Beatrice Amadi, et al

Malnutrition enteropathy in Zambian and Zimbabwean children with severe acute malnutrition: A multi-arm randomized phase II trial.

RCTn = 125Gut Health -

Multi-arm RCT in Zambia and Zimbabwe evaluating interventions for malnutrition enteropathy in children with severe acute malnutrition. Teduglutide reduced biomarkers of mucosal damage, while bovine colostrum, N-acetyl glucosamine, and budesonide showed no significant effect. All interventions were safe.

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2024·EBioMedicine·Jonathan P Sturgeon, Kuda Mutasa, Mutsa Bwakura-Dangarembizi, et al

Therapeutic interventions targeting enteropathy in severe acute malnutrition modulate systemic and vascular inflammation and epithelial regeneration.

RCTn = 122Inflammation Gut Health

Phase II multi-centre trial in Zambia and Zimbabwe with 122 children with severe acute malnutrition. Colostrum and N-acetylglucosamine interventions reduced systemic inflammation and improved epithelial regeneration, suggesting benefits for malnutrition enteropathy.

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2024·Advances in neonatal care : official journal of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses·Leila Barizeh, Mahnaz Jabraeili, Mohammad Bagher Hoseini, et al

The Effect of Oral Colostrum Application on the Condition of the Mouth and Incidence of Late-Onset Sepsis Among Premature Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 70Immunity -

RCT of 70 premature infants comparing oral colostrum application to sterile water. Colostrum improved oral mucosal health and reduced the need for oral care, but showed no significant effect on the incidence of late-onset sepsis.

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2024·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Marie Bendix Simonsen, Susanne Soendergaard Kappel, Lise Aunsholt, et al

Mineral supplementation for very preterm infants fed fortified human milk.

RCTNutrition

RCT investigating the safety and feasibility of fortifying human milk with bovine colostrum (BC) in very preterm infants. The study found that infants fed BC required higher doses of phosphate and calcium to maintain acceptable blood values compared to those fed conventional fortifier.

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2023·Trials·S S Sidhu, A Dusseja, Shalimar, et al

A multicenter double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of bovine colostrum in the treatment of severe alcoholic hepatitis (SAH).

RCTn = 174Longevity

This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial evaluates the safety and efficacy of bovine colostrum in treating severe alcoholic hepatitis (SAH). The trial will enroll 174 patients to receive either freeze-dried bovine colostrum or placebo for 4 weeks, with primary outcome measure being survival at 3 months.

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2023·Injury·Faezeh Gouhari, Reza Zandi, Amir Mehrvar, et al

Improved physical disability and nutritional status by bovine colostrum supplementation in adults with traumatic peri-trochanteric femoral fracture: A randomized, controlled, clinical trial.

RCTn = 94Nutrition Physical Performance

RCT of 94 patients with femur fracture comparing 45g bovine colostrum to 15g whey protein daily for 21 days. Colostrum group showed significant improvements in weight gain, appetite, serum albumin, hemoglobin, lymphocyte count, and physical disability scores compared to control.

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2023·Nutrients·Maciej Hałasa, Karolina Skonieczna-Żydecka, Bogusław Machaliński, et al

Six Weeks of Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum Effectively Reduces URTIs Symptoms Frequency and Gravity for Up to 20 Weeks in Pre-School Children.

RCTn = 57Immunity

RCT assessing the preventive use of bovine colostrum against upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in 57 pre-school children. Colostrum supplementation significantly reduced the frequency and gravity of URTI symptoms, with effects lasting up to 20 weeks. No significant side effects were reported.

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2023·Nutrients·Magdalena Baśkiewicz-Hałasa, Ewa Stachowska, Elżbieta Grochans, et al

Moderate Dose Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Medical University Students: A Randomized, Triple Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

RCTImmunity

RCT of bovine colostrum supplementation in medical and health science students to prevent upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). The study found significant protection from URTIs, with reduced frequency and severity of symptoms and improved well-being in the colostrum group compared to placebo.

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2023·Critical care science·Hellen Porto Pimenta, Adriana Duarte Rocha, Aline Carnevale Lia Dias Guimarães, et al

Oropharyngeal colostrum administration in neonates with gastroschisis: a randomized clinical trial.

RCT

Randomized clinical trial evaluating the effect of oropharyngeal colostrum administration on the time to start a suckling diet in newborns with simple gastroschisis. The study found no significant differences in the time to start enteral feeding and suction diet between the colostrum and control groups.

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2022·Indian journal of pediatrics·K C Sudeep, Jogender Kumar, Somosri Ray, et al

Oral Application of Colostrum and Mother's Own Milk in Preterm Infants-A Randomized, Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 133Immunity

RCT evaluating the effects of oral application of mother's own milk (OMOM) on clinical outcomes in preterm infants. The OMOM group had a lower incidence of composite adverse health outcomes and late-onset sepsis compared to placebo. No significant differences were found in mortality, NEC, IVH, BPD, ROP, and time to full feeds. OMOM was found to be safe.

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2021·Pediatric research·Rania I H Ismail, Hisham A Awad, Safaa S Imam, et al

Gut priming with bovine colostrum and T regulatory cells in preterm neonates: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 80Immunity

RCT on 80 preterm infants comparing bovine colostrum to control. Bovine colostrum group showed higher levels of FOXP3 T regulatory cells, with positive trends for reduction of sepsis severity and mortality, though no significant effect on NEC incidence.

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2020·Journal of tropical pediatrics·Sana Hosny Barakat, Marwa Ahmed Meheissen, Omneya Magdy Omar, et al

Bovine Colostrum in the Treatment of Acute Diarrhea in Children: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 160Gut Health

Double-blind randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of bovine colostrum on acute diarrhea in 160 children. The BC group showed significantly lower frequency of vomiting, diarrhea, and Vesikari scoring compared to placebo, indicating its effectiveness as an adjuvant therapy for viral and bacterial diarrhea.

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2020·Nutrients·Estefanía Martín-Álvarez, Javier Diaz-Castro, Manuela Peña-Caballero, et al

Oropharyngeal Colostrum Positively Modulates the Inflammatory Response in Preterm Neonates.

RCTn = 100Inflammation Nutrition Immunity

RCT assessing the effects of oropharyngeal mother's milk on inflammatory signaling in extremely premature infants. The mother's milk group showed decreased pro-inflammatory markers and achieved full enteral feeding earlier, suggesting positive effects on immune system development and inflammatory response.

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2019·Scientific reports·Ji Li, Yi-Wen Xu, Jing-Jing Jiang, et al

Bovine colostrum and product intervention associated with relief of childhood infectious diarrhea.

Meta-analysisGut Health

This meta-analysis investigated the protective effects of bovine colostrum against childhood infectious diarrhea. It included five RCTs and found that bovine colostrum consumption significantly reduced stool frequency, occurrence of diarrhea, and pathogen detection in stool compared to placebo.

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2018·Journal of human nutrition and dietetics : the official journal of the British Dietetic Association·B D Garg, H Balasubramanian, N S Kabra, et al

Effect of oropharyngeal colostrum therapy in the prevention of necrotising enterocolitis among very low birthweight neonates: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Meta-analysisGut Health -

Meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials assessing the efficacy of oropharyngeal colostrum in reducing necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm neonates. The therapy was not associated with a statistically significant reduction in NEC incidence, mortality, or time to full feed, but the duration of hospital stay was significantly less in the control group.

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2014·Nutrition reviews·Mathias Rathe, Klaus Müller, Per Torp Sangild, et al

Clinical applications of bovine colostrum therapy: a systematic review.

Systematic reviewGut Health Immunity

Systematic review of 51 studies on bovine colostrum supplementation, evaluating its potential gastrointestinal and immunological benefits. Studies were heterogeneous and often of poor methodological quality, with results not consistently confirmed. Further research is needed to establish clinical recommendations.

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2011·Journal of animal science·A Huguet, J Le Dividich, I Le Huërou-Luron

Improvement of growth performance and sanitary status of weaned piglets fed a bovine colostrum-supplemented diet.

RCTn = 832Nutrition

The study investigated the effect of defatted bovine colostrum supplementation on growth performance and sanitary status in weaned piglets. Piglets fed the colostrum-supplemented diet showed improved growth performance and reduced diarrheal episodes compared to the control group, with benefits observed beyond the treatment period when supplementation covered the first 6 days postweaning.

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2006·Indian journal of pediatrics·Kamlesh Patel, Rajiv Rana

Pedimune in recurrent respiratory infection and diarrhoea--the Indian experience--the pride study.

RCTn = 605Immunity Gut Health

RCT evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of bovine colostrum (Pedimune) in 605 children with recurrent upper respiratory tract infections or diarrhea. The study found significant reductions in episodes of URTI and diarrhea by 91.19% and 86.60%, respectively, and improvements in overall well-being.

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2025·The Medical journal of Malaysia·A T Indriani, S Wandita, E L Haksari, et al

Effect of oral colostrum application every 2 hours and 4 hours in order to achieve trophic feeding in preterm infants: A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 40Nutrition -

RCT comparing the effects of oral colostrum application every 2 hours versus every 4 hours on achieving trophic feeding in preterm infants. The study found no significant difference in the time to achieve trophic feeding between the two groups.

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2025·European journal of applied physiology·Eliran Mizelman, Keely A Shaw, Mojtaba Kaviani, et al

Bovine colostrum supplementation in rugby.

RCTn = 29Physical Performance Immunity -

This double-blind, randomized study examined the effects of 8 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation versus soy protein in 29 club-level rugby players. Bovine colostrum significantly improved vertical jump height, indicating enhanced lower body power, but showed no significant changes in upper or lower body strength, aerobic power, body composition, or immune/inflammatory markers compared to the soy group.

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2023·Nutrients·Mirosława Cieślicka, Błażej Stankiewicz, Radosław Muszkieta, et al

Long-Term Bovine Colostrum Supplementation in Football Players.

RCTn = 28Immunity Inflammation Physical Performance -

This study investigated the effects of 6 months of bovine colostrum supplementation on immune function, iron management, and anabolic/catabolic balance in young football players. A significant increase in immunoglobulin G concentration and a decrease in inflammatory markers were observed, but no significant effects on performance, iron management, or hormonal response were found.

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2022·Nutrients·Mirosława Cieślicka, Joanna Ostapiuk-Karolczuk, Harpal S Buttar, et al

Effects of Long-Term Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum on Iron Homeostasis, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Female Athletes: A Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 20Inflammation Womens Health

This placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated the effects of six months of bovine colostrum supplementation in 20 trained female athletes. The colostrum group showed significant decreases in TBARS levels and increases in IL-6, SOD activity, transferrin, and lactoferrin levels compared to the placebo group, suggesting benefits in reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and improving iron homeostasis.

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2021·JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition·Ping-Ping Jiang, Tik Muk, Lukasz Krych, et al

Gut colonization in preterm infants supplemented with bovine colostrum in the first week of life: An explorative pilot study.

RCTn = 24Gut Health

Pilot RCT exploring the effects of bovine colostrum versus donor human milk on gut colonization in preterm infants. Bovine colostrum supplementation was associated with lower relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae and Enterococcaceae compared to donor milk, with implications for gut microbiome development and nutrient metabolism.

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2020·Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)·Maciej Hałasa, Dominika Maciejewska-Markiewicz, Magdalena Baśkiewicz-Hałasa, et al

Post-Delivery Milking Delay Influence on the Effect of Oral Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum as Measured with Intestinal Permeability Test.

RCTn = 31Gut Health Immunity

A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial assessed the effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on intestinal permeability in 31 healthy athletes. Colostrum collected after 2 and 24 hours post-delivery significantly reduced intestinal permeability compared to placebo and 72-hour colostrum, indicating a decrease in biological activity over time.

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2020·Nutrients·Anna Skarpańska-Stejnborn, Mirosława Cieślicka, Hanna Dziewiecka, et al

Effects of Long-Term Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum on the Immune System in Young Female Basketball Players. Randomized Trial.

RCTn = 20Immunity -

RCT examining the effects of long-term bovine colostrum supplementation on immune function in 27 elite female basketball players. No significant effects on immune system function indicators were observed, except for a statistically significant change in IL-10 in response to the exercise program.

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2020·Journal of thermal biology·Zachary McKenna, Quint Berkemeier, Felipe Gorini, et al

Effects of exercise in hot and humid conditions and bovine colostrum on salivary immune markers.

RCTn = 10Immunity -

This study examined the effects of exercise in hot and humid conditions on salivary immune markers and the impact of 14-day bovine colostrum supplementation. Exercise increased salivary lactoferrin and lysozyme, but bovine colostrum had no effect on these markers or mucosal immunity.

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2019·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Daniela M L M Ferreira, Angela M M Oliveira, Débora V de Leves, et al

Randomized Controlled Trial of Oropharyngeal Colostrum Administration in Very-low-birth-weight Preterm Infants.

RCTn = 113Immunity -

RCT evaluating the effects of oropharyngeal colostrum administration in very-low-birth-weight infants on late-onset sepsis and IgA levels. No significant differences were found between colostrum and placebo groups in sepsis incidence or IgA levels.

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2019·JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition·Mathias Rathe, Silvia De Pietri, Peder Skov Wehner, et al

Bovine Colostrum Against Chemotherapy-Induced Gastrointestinal Toxicity in Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 62Gut Health

RCT of bovine colostrum supplementation in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia during chemotherapy. Colostrum significantly reduced the peak severity of oral mucositis compared to placebo, though no differences were found for fever or infectious morbidity.

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2017·Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition·L Kindlein, D B Moretti, P Pauletti, et al

Bovine colostrum enriched with lyophilized bovine colostrum stimulates intestinal epithelium renewal of Holstein calves in the first days of life.

RCTn = 72Gut Health

RCT evaluating the effect of a second colostrum meal on intestinal mucosa development in 72 newborn Holstein calves. Calves were fed with high or low-quality first colostrum followed by different second colostrum treatments. Results showed that enriched colostrum stimulated intestinal epithelium renewal, although high-quality colostrum worsened the absorptive area but may have stimulated cell division in intestinal crypts.

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2016·Medicine·Khaled Saad, Mohamed Gamil M Abo-Elela, Khaled A Abd El-Baseer, et al

Effects of bovine colostrum on recurrent respiratory tract infections and diarrhea in children.

RCTn = 160Immunity Gut Health

RCT of 160 children aged 1-6 years with recurrent URTI or diarrhea receiving bovine colostrum for 4 weeks. BC significantly reduced the total number of infections, episodes of URTI, diarrhea, and hospital admissions over 6 months.

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2016·Journal of tropical pediatrics·Binesh Balachandran, Sourabh Dutta, Ramandeep Singh, et al

Bovine Colostrum in Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Sepsis in Very Low Birth Weight Neonates: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Pilot Trial.

RCTn = 86Gut Health Immunity

RCT of 86 very low birth weight neonates comparing enteral bovine colostrum to placebo for prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis. No statistically significant differences in main outcomes, but trends toward higher stool IL-6 and NEC features in the colostrum group.

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2015·The British journal of nutrition·Sugiharto Sugiharto, Ann-Sofie Riis Poulsen, Nuria Canibe, et al

Effect of bovine colostrum feeding in comparison with milk replacer and natural feeding on the immune responses and colonisation of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in the intestinal tissue of piglets.

RCTImmunity Gut Health

The study compared the effects of feeding bovine colostrum, milk replacer, and natural sow milk on the immune responses and E. coli colonization in piglets. Bovine colostrum reduced E. coli colonization and modulated the intestinal immune system compared to milk replacer, with no significant differences compared to natural sow milk.

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2013·Brain, behavior, and immunity·Arwel W Jones, Simon J S Cameron, Rhys Thatcher, et al

Effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on upper respiratory illness in active males.

RCTn = 53Immunity

RCT of 53 active males comparing 20g daily bovine colostrum supplementation to placebo over 12 weeks. Bovine colostrum reduced the proportion of upper respiratory illness days and episodes compared to placebo, suggesting a positive effect on immunity. No significant effects were found on neutrophil oxidative burst, salivary secretory IgA, or salivary antimicrobial peptides.

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2011·Indian journal of gastroenterology : official journal of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology·F O Kaducu, S A Okia, G Upenytho, et al

Effect of bovine colostrum-based food supplement in the treatment of HIV-associated diarrhea in Northern Uganda: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 87Gut Health Nutrition Energy Immunity

RCT of 87 HIV/AIDS patients with diarrhea comparing colostrum-based supplement (ColoPlus) plus standard treatment to standard treatment alone. The supplement group showed significant reductions in stool frequency and fatigue, increased body weight and BMI, and improved CD4+ counts.

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2010·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Yunes Panahi, Gholamhossein Falahi, Morteza Falahpour, et al

Bovine colostrum in the management of nonorganic failure to thrive: a randomized clinical trial.

RCTn = 120Nutrition

RCT evaluating the efficacy of oral bovine colostrum in managing nonorganic failure to thrive in 120 children. The case group receiving colostrum showed a significantly higher Gomez index compared to the control group, indicating improved weight gain.

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2010·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Christine Crooks, Martin L Cross, Clare Wall, et al

Effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on respiratory tract mucosal defenses in swimmers.

RCTn = 53Immunity

RCT investigating the effect of bovine colostrum on respiratory tract mucosal defenses in 25 elite swimmers and 28 control students. No significant effect on immunoglobulin levels was found, but fewer athletes reported upper respiratory tract symptoms when consuming bovine colostrum.

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2003·European journal of nutrition·Grant D Brinkworth, Jonathan D Buckley

Concentrated bovine colostrum protein supplementation reduces the incidence of self-reported symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection in adult males.

RCTn = 174Immunity

RCT examining the effect of concentrated bovine colostrum protein (CBC) on self-reported symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) in adult males. CBC supplementation reduced the incidence of URTI symptoms compared to whey protein, although symptom duration did not differ.

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2002·Wiener klinische Wochenschrift·Edwin Bölke, Klaus Orth, Peter M Jehle, et al

Enteral application of an immunoglobulin-enriched colostrum milk preparation for reducing endotoxin translocation and acute phase response in patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery--a randomized placebo-controlled pilot trial.

RCTn = 60Inflammation

RCT of 60 patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery, testing enteral application of 42 g/day bovine colostrum milk preparation versus placebo for 2 days preoperatively. The colostrum group showed a tendency to reduced IL-6 levels and significantly lower CRP levels postoperatively, but no reduction in endotoxemia was observed.

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2001·Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)·J Antonio, M S Sanders, D Van Gammeren

The effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on body composition and exercise performance in active men and women.

RCTPhysique Physical Performance -

RCT examining the effects of 8 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation (20 g/d) on body composition and exercise performance in active men and women. The colostrum group experienced a significant increase in bone-free lean body mass, while the whey protein group experienced an increase in body weight. No changes were observed in exercise performance parameters.

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2025·International Journal of Molecular Sciences·S. Boichuk, A. Galembikova, David Vollmer

Enhancement of NK Cell Cytotoxic Activity and Immunoregulatory Effects of a Natural Product Supplement Across a Wide Age Span: A 30-Day In Vivo Human Study

StudyImmunity

The study examined the effects of AgePro, a supplement containing colostrum, egg yolk extract, NMN, quercetin, alpha-ketoglutarate, white button mushroom, and celery seed extracts, on NK cell activity. Over 30 days, AgePro significantly enhanced NK cell cytotoxic activity and increased cytokine production in the presence of target tumor cells, without spontaneous activation of PBMCs.

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2023·Jornal de pediatria·Camilla da C Martins, Michelle de S X Ramos, Amanda O Lyrio, et al

Oropharyngeal colostrum immunotherapy and risk reduction of mortality in very low birth weight premature newborns: a clinical trial.

Studyn = 138Immunity

Non-randomized clinical trial evaluating oropharyngeal colostrum immunotherapy (OCI) on mortality in very low birth weight preterm newborns. The treatment group showed a reduced risk of death compared to the control group, with a number needed to treat of approximately 5 to prevent one death.

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2022·Annals of hematology·Monica Guberti, Stefano Botti, Cristiana Caffarri, et al

Efficacy and safety of a colostrum- and Aloe vera-based oral care protocol to prevent and treat severe oral mucositis in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a single-arm phase II study.

Studyn = 59Inflammation

A single-arm phase II study assessed the safety and efficacy of a combined bovine colostrum and Aloe vera oral care protocol to prevent and treat severe oral mucositis in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The study found a significant decrease in severe oral mucositis and its duration, as well as a reduction in febrile neutropenia episodes and duration compared to a historical control group.

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2018·Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition·Sandra Meinich Juhl, Xuqiang Ye, Ping Zhou, et al

Bovine Colostrum for Preterm Infants in the First Days of Life: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

RCTn = 40Nutrition

This randomized controlled pilot trial investigated the feasibility of using bovine colostrum (BC) as a supplement to mother's own milk (MM) for preterm infants during the first weeks of life. The study found that infants supplemented with BC received more enteral protein and tended to reach full enteral feeding earlier. No differences in feeding intolerance or clinical adverse events were observed between diet groups.

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2017·European journal of nutrition·A W Jones, D S March, R Thatcher, et al

The effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on in vivo immunity following prolonged exercise: a randomised controlled trial.

RCTn = 31Immunity

RCT investigating the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on in vivo immunity following prolonged exercise in 31 men. Bovine colostrum increased sensitivity of in vivo immune responsiveness compared to placebo, suggesting it may counteract exercise-induced immune dysfunction.

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2017·European journal of applied physiology·Daniel S March, Tania Marchbank, Raymond J Playford, et al

Intestinal fatty acid-binding protein and gut permeability responses to exercise.

RCTn = 18Gut Health

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study assessed the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on intestinal permeability and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) levels in response to exercise in 18 males. Results showed that post-exercise intestinal permeability and I-FABP levels were significantly lower in the colostrum group compared to placebo, suggesting a protective effect of colostrum on gut health.

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2017·European journal of nutrition·Yiannis Kotsis, Anastasia Mikellidi, Cleopatra Aresti, et al

A low-dose, 6-week bovine colostrum supplementation maintains performance and attenuates inflammatory indices following a Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test in soccer players.

RCTn = 18Physical Performance Inflammation

This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study investigated the effects of a 6-week, low-dose bovine colostrum supplementation on exercise-induced muscle damage and performance in soccer players. The bovine colostrum group showed faster recovery of squat jump, creatine kinase, and C-reactive protein levels, and lower IL-6 levels compared to the whey protein group, suggesting reduced muscle damage and better performance maintenance.

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2017·Danish medical journal·Sandra Meinich Juhl

Necrotizing enterocolitis - classification and two initial steps towards prevention.

RCTn = 12Gut Health

The paper discusses the role of nutrition in preventing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants, focusing on a pilot study using bovine colostrum as a supplement to maternal milk. The study found that infants tolerated bovine colostrum without clinical adverse effects, although transient hypertyrosinemia was observed in some infants. The randomized controlled trial comparing bovine colostrum to standard nutrition has completed recruitment.

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2015·Scandinavian journal of medicine & science in sports·A W Jones, R Thatcher, D S March, et al

Influence of 4 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation on neutrophil and mucosal immune responses to prolonged cycling.

RCTn = 20Immunity

This randomized double-blind study investigated the effects of 4 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation on immune responses in participants undergoing prolonged cycling. The COL group showed a significantly greater oxidative burst response compared to the placebo group, indicating beneficial effects on neutrophil function in exercise-induced immune dysfunction.

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2014·Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition·H Abdou, H Marichatou, J-F Beckers, et al

Effect of bovine colostrum intake on growth, reproductive parameters and survival in red kids.

RCTn = 40Nutrition Longevity Womens Health

RCT evaluating the effect of frozen Azawak colostrum supplementation on growth, reproductive parameters, and survival in red kids. Supplemented animals showed higher growth rates, lower mortality rates, and a trend towards earlier age at first kidding compared to controls.

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2014·Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme·Shawnda A Morrison, Stephen S Cheung, James D Cotter

Bovine colostrum, training status, and gastrointestinal permeability during exercise in the heat: a placebo-controlled double-blind study.

RCTn = 15

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study tested the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on physiological strain and exercise capacity in the heat. The study involved 7 trained and 8 untrained men exercising in 30°C conditions. Bovine colostrum supplementation did not affect physiological or performance outcomes, nor did it modulate cytokine concentrations, despite the thermal and cardiovascular strain.

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2013·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Whitney R D Duff, Philip D Chilibeck, Julianne J Rooke, et al

The effect of bovine colostrum supplementation in older adults during resistance training.

RCTn = 40Physical Performance Joint Bone Health

RCT comparing 8 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation to whey protein during resistance training in older adults. Colostrum increased leg press strength and reduced bone resorption more than whey protein. Both groups improved upper body strength, muscle thickness, lean tissue mass, and cognitive function.

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2013·The Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness·C M Shing, J M Peake, K Suzuki, et al

A pilot study: bovine colostrum supplementation and hormonal and autonomic responses to competitive cycling.

RCTn = 10Hormone Health Physical Performance Recovery

Pilot RCT examining bovine colostrum protein concentrate supplementation in 10 male cyclists over a five-day race. Bovine CPC increased morning cortisol and maintained testosterone levels, while modulating autonomic activity compared to control. No significant differences in salivary IgA were observed.

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2012·Preventive medicine·Gitte S Jensen, Dilip Patel, Kathleen F Benson

A novel extract from bovine colostrum whey supports innate immune functions. II. Rapid changes in cellular immune function in humans.

RCTn = 12Immunity

A placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized cross-over trial with 12 healthy subjects evaluated the acute effects of bovine colostrum low-molecular weight fraction (CLMWF) on innate immune function. A single dose of CLMWF increased phagocytic activity of monocytes and polymorphonuclear cells, and caused transient changes in NK cell numbers, suggesting systemic immune effects.

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2012·JPEN. Journal of parenteral and enteral nutrition·Lise Aunsholt, Palle Bekker Jeppesen, Pernille Lund, et al

Bovine colostrum to children with short bowel syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, crossover pilot study.

RCTn = 9Nutrition -

A randomized, double-blind, crossover pilot study evaluated the efficacy of bovine colostrum in improving intestinal function in children with short bowel syndrome. The study found that bovine colostrum did not improve energy or wet weight absorption compared to a mixed milk diet, and growth measurements did not differ between diets.

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2012·European journal of clinical nutrition·P Lund, P T Sangild, L Aunsholt, et al

Randomised controlled trial of colostrum to improve intestinal function in patients with short bowel syndrome.

RCTn = 8Gut Health -

RCT of 12 SBS patients comparing 4 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation to an iso-energetic control. Both supplements increased protein and energy absorption but also increased faecal wet weight excretions. Colostrum did not significantly improve intestinal absorption, body composition, or functional tests compared to the control.

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2011·The clinical respiratory journal·Türkan Patıroğlu, Meda Kondolot

The effect of bovine colostrum on viral upper respiratory tract infections in children with immunoglobulin A deficiency.

RCTn = 31Immunity

Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 31 IgA-deficient children with viral URT infections, evaluating the effect of oral bovine colostrum. The colostrum group had a lower infection severity score than the placebo group after 1 week, but no difference in salivary IgA levels was observed.

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2011·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Arnoud Carol, Renger F Witkamp, Harry J Wichers, et al

Bovine colostrum supplementation's lack of effect on immune variables during short-term intense exercise in well-trained athletes.

RCTn = 9Immunity -

RCT investigating the effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on immune variables in 9 male athletes during short-term intense exercise. No differences were found between colostrum and skim-milk powder in any immune variables, suggesting no role for colostrum in preventing postexercise immune suppression.

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2010·American journal of physiology. Gastrointestinal and liver physiology·Tania Marchbank, Glen Davison, Jemma R Oakes, et al

The nutriceutical bovine colostrum truncates the increase in gut permeability caused by heavy exercise in athletes.

RCTn = 12Gut Health Physical Performance

This study examined the effects of bovine colostrum on gut permeability and physical performance in athletes undergoing heavy exercise. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover protocol showed that colostrum significantly reduced the increase in intestinal permeability caused by exercise and may enhance athletic performance and prevent heat stroke.

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2009·Nutrients·Jonathan D Buckley, Ross N Butler, Emma Southcott, et al

Bovine colostrum supplementation during running training increases intestinal permeability.

RCTn = 30Gut Health

RCT of 30 healthy adult males undergoing eight weeks of running training while consuming bovine colostrum, whey protein, or control. Bovine colostrum supplementation increased intestinal permeability significantly more than whey protein or control.

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2008·The Journal of nutritional biochemistry·Jun Ho Kim, Wan Sik Jung, Nag-Jin Choi, et al

Health-promoting effects of bovine colostrum in Type 2 diabetic patients can reduce blood glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride and ketones.

RCTn = 16Nutrition Heart Health

RCT of 16 Type 2 diabetic patients ingesting 5 g of bovine colostrum twice daily for 4 weeks. Blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels decreased significantly, suggesting potential benefits for managing diabetes-related complications.

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2006·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Christine V Crooks, Clare R Wall, Martin L Cross, et al

The effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on salivary IgA in distance runners.

RCTn = 35Immunity

RCT involving 35 distance runners comparing bovine colostrum supplementation to placebo over 12 weeks. The colostrum group showed a 79% increase in salivary IgA levels, indicating improved mucosal immunity, though results should be interpreted cautiously due to small sample size and variability.

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2006·Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)·Cecilia M Shing, Jonathan Peake, Katsuhiko Suzuki, et al

Effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on immune variables in highly trained cyclists.

RCTn = 29Immunity Physical Performance

RCT investigating the effects of low-dose bovine colostrum protein concentrate supplementation on immune variables in 29 highly trained male cyclists. Bovine CPC supplementation increased preexercise serum soluble TNF receptor 1 and suppressed the postexercise decrease in cytotoxic/suppressor T cells. It also prevented a postexercise decrease in serum IgG(2) concentration and showed a trend toward reduced upper respiratory illness symptoms.

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2006·British journal of sports medicine·C M Shing, D G Jenkins, L Stevenson, et al

The influence of bovine colostrum supplementation on exercise performance in highly trained cyclists.

RCTn = 29Physical Performance

RCT investigating the influence of low dose bovine colostrum supplementation on exercise performance in 29 highly trained male cyclists over a 10-week period. Bovine colostrum supplementation improved TT40 performance and maintained ventilatory threshold following a high intensity training period.

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2006·Research in veterinary science·C Boudry, A Buldgen, D Portetelle, et al

Effects of oral supplementation with bovine colostrum on the immune system of weaned piglets.

RCTn = 24Immunity

RCT evaluating the effects of bovine colostrum supplementation on the immune system of weaned piglets. Colostrum increased total serum IgA levels and affected lymphocyte populations, suggesting local anti-colostrum immunization and stimulation of immune cells.

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