Looking for the best colostrum supplements to boost your health in 2023?
You've come to the right place!
As a gut health enthusiast myself, I know how hard it can be to find a quality colostrum product that actually works.
That's why I dove in deep researching all the top colostrum brands, analyzing ingredients, verifying certifications, and trying them out first-hand.
Have you ever wondered why newborn mammals are often stronger and healthier than we expect?
The secret MAY lie in a nutrient-rich milk called colostrum.
Produced in the first few days after giving birth, colostrum is packed with essential nutrients and antibodies that help newborns kick-start their journey of life.
But did you know that colostrum isn’t just beneficial for infants?
Colostrum supplements have become increasingly popular among adults for their wide array of health benefits. And they are quickly becoming one of the leading wellness trends to watch this year.
I'm excited to share my picks for the absolute best colostrum supplements on the market right now.
Whether you're an athlete looking to improve performance, a stressed-out mom whose gut health needs some serious TLC, or simply want to upgrade your immune system.
There's a perfect colostrum supplement for you in this list.
I'll also give you the scoop on what colostrum actually is, why it's so beneficial, and what to look for when shopping. So keep reading to find your new favorite colostrum supplement!
Trust me, with these high-quality picks, you'll notice a difference in no time.
This post is all about the Best Colostrum Supplements.
Summary of our Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Armra Bovine Colostrum Superfood
- Best Runner-Up: Wondercow Colostrum
- Best Capsules: Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Colostrum
- Best Value: Douglas Laboratories Colostrum
- Best for Athletes: Immune-Tree Colostrum 6
What is Colostrum?
Colostrum, often referred to as “first milk” or “liquid gold”, is a type of milk produced by mammals in the first few days after giving birth. It is packed with essential nutrients and antibodies that provide a healthy kick start for newborns.
Colostrum is incredibly high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and various antibodies, making it an excellent source of immune support.
Beyond its role in supporting the health of newborns, colostrum has gained a reputation as a powerful supplement for adults.
The key lies in its rich content of immunoglobulins, growth factors, lactoferrin, and amino acids.
These components work together to boost the immune system and promote gut health, providing a well-rounded approach to maintain overall health.
What are the Best Colostrum Supplements?
Nowadays, it's hard to go on social media without someone talking about colostrum and all of the benefits it provides.
With the growing popularity of these supplements, how do you choose the best one?
Good news.
We have done all of the work for you and narrowed it down to our Top Five Favorite Colostrum Supplements.
- Best Overall: Armra Bovine Colostrum Superfood
- Best Runner-Up: Wondercow Colostrum
- Best Capsules: Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Colostrum
- Best Value: Douglas Laboratories Colostrum
- Best for Athletes: Immune-Tree Colostrum 6
Top Colostrum Supplement Picks and Their Benefits
Best Overall: Armra Bovine Colostrum Superfood
I don't think it's too much of a surprise, but our #1 choice for the Best Colostrum supplement is Armra Colostrum.
Designed to boost vitality, Armra Colostrum offers a high-quality nutritional supplement derived from the first milking of grass-fed cows. Their gently-processed powder concentrates the natural immune and growth factors in colostrum, harnessing its benefits for gut health, lean muscle, and metabolism.
There are so many benefits to this amazing "superfood" product. Okay, maybe "super supplement" is the more correct term.
Not only has Armra been truly a life-changing product for me, but it has for SO many others as well.
I started taking it about a year ago and can safely say that it has helped repair my gut and overall health in SO many ways.
- Improved digestion
- Less stomach pain
- Reduced hair loss
Before taking it, my stomach had a constant aching sensation, and I was NOT properly digesting my food.
After several months on this product, my pain started to disappear, and I could feel my digestion getting stronger.
Every. Single. Day.
It's amazing. I highly, highly recommend it!
If you are someone who has struggled with their digestion. Experiences health issues that you can't seem to solve.
Then please. Go out and try Armra!
It might be JUST what your body needs.
Serving Size:
- 1 scoop- 3 scoops (1-3g)
- Bovine Colostrum per Serving: TBD, Armra does not disclose this information.
Pros:
- No Additives– Armra uses whole food ingredients in their colostrum with over 400+ nutrients. So you are getting exactly what you need and none of the added "junk".
- Low-Temperature Extraction– Uses a proprietary “Cold-Chain BioPotent™Technology” to help ensure effective results.
- Responsible Sourcing– Armra sources its colostrum from grass-fed cows and ONLY uses the excess surplus colostrum (which means that the babies get all they need before any of the excess colostrum is gathered.)
- Proven Results- Independent research shows that the Armra colostrum offered 32% stronger immune protection than some competitors. (Like I said earlier, this is my go-to colostrum supplement, and I can also attest to these proven results!)
Cons:
- Contains Lactose– For those with a high dairy sensitivity, this may be an issue. (Side note: I am VERY dairy sensitive and have not had any problems).
- Some people have reported no noticeable difference after consuming this supplement.
Best Runner-Up: Wondercow Colostrum
Wondercow Colostrum is another VERY SOLID colostrum supplement, and one that I also recommend.
Which is why we voted it as our "Best Runner-Up" colostrum supplement.
The Wondercow brand uses pure, high-quality colostrum harvested from pasture-raised cows within the first 12 hours after calving.
But fear not.
This company ONLY works with farmers who ethically gather colostrum.
Meaning they make sure the calves get ALL of the needed colostrum before moving forward with their harvesting.
Wondercow's colostrum is also low-heat processed to preserve nutrients. And the powder is super easy to add to smoothies, yogurt, or protein shakes.
Truthfully speaking, we really LOVED Wondercow.
Almost as much as we did Armra.
It is SUPER powerful.
Heck it contains double the amount of immunoglobulins as its competitors.
Which means you get 2x the "good guys" who help boost your immune system, strengthen your gut, and improve your overall health and wellness.
However, we dinged them a few points because of their SLIGHTLY higher clumping consistency versus some of the other brands.
But folks, colostrum clumps. It's just part of how it goes with this super-supplement.
Not a dealbreaker by ANY means.
We definitely think you should get the Wondercow Colostrum and have it be part of your daily routine.
It'll no doubt be one of your favorites!
Serving Size:
- 2 scoops (2g)
- Bovine Colostrum per Serving: 2,000 mg
Pros:
- High-quality- Contains 40% IgGs (helps with inflammation, gut health, etc.), which is 2x the amount of its leading competitors. This speaks to how POWERFUL Wondercow Colostrum can be!
- No Additives– Does not contain artificial ingredients, dyes, additives, or fillers. You are not putting any unnecessary things into your body.
- Low-Temperature Processing- Their colostrum is processed at low temperatures to ensure that the amount of bioactive preservation is maximized.
Cons:
- Clumpy- As with a lot of colostrum products, this one has the tendency to clump a bit more than the competitors if not stirred well in your beverage. A simple hand mixer takes care of this, no problem!
- Some people have reported no noticeable difference after consuming this supplement.
Best Capsules: Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Colostrum
Our vote for the "Best Colostrum Capsule" is Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Colostrum.
For those of you into health and wellness, then I'm sure you are WELL aware of this Ancestral Supplements brand. In fact they are probably MOST known for their blue collagen peptides product.
Which we ALSO highly recommend.
Ancestral Supplements colostrum comes from grass-fed cows raised on open pastures in New Zealand.
It is unprocessed and low-heat treated to retain bioactivity. The colostrum is then freeze-dried into powder for easier consumption.
Ancestral Supplements really do offer a premium colostrum product in terms of source, processing method, potency, purity, and third-party testing.
It is one brand that we believe in and stand behind whole-heartedly.
We really LOVE the capsules because of their convenience. Especially when you are traveling or are anywhere other than your home.
Because let's face it. Bringing a large container of white powder probably isn't the best use of your often limited travel space.
Which is why these colostrum capsules will be your PERFECT travel companion.
Go out and get a bottle today!
Serving Size:
- 6 capsules
- Bovine Colostrum per Serving: 3,000 mg
Pros:
- Travels well- The capsules make it so easy to throw a bottle into your carry-on and go!
- No additives: Made in small batches without GMOs, fillers of flow agents. 100% hormone-free, and 3rd Party tested for purity.
- Pasture-raised cows: Grass-fed and Grass-finished product from cows that were pasture-raised in New Zealand and Australia.
- Diet-friendly: Keto, Paleo and Carnivore-diet friendly.
- No-clumping: Since this comes in a pill form, you don’t have to worry about clumping.
Cons:
- Expensive: An 180 capsule bottle will last for about one month and can be a little pricey, depending on where you buy it.
- High Capsule Serving: The 180 capsule bottle that we bought had a suggested serving size of 6 capsules! However, since that equates to 3,000 mg of colostrum per serving, you could definitely lower the amount of capsules taken and still get a decent intake of colostrum.
Best Value: Douglas Labs Colostrum
For those seeking an affordable yet potent colostrum supplement, look no further than Douglas Laboratories' bovine colostrum.
Supporting everything from immunity and gut health to lean muscle development and injury recovery, this cost-effective formula truly packs a punch.
When it comes to value for money, few colostrum supplements can compare with the comprehensive nutrition and competitive pricing of Douglas Labs Colostrum.
While the initial price tag doesn't seem "budget-friendly", you soon realize that you can get MULTIPLE servings of colostrum in just one bottle!
This makes it a no-brainer.
It's a wallet-friendly way to harness the natural power of first milk.
Go out and get your bottle today!
Serving Size:
- 2 capsules
- Bovine Colostrum per Serving: 1,000 mg
Pros:
- 100% New Zealand Colostrum: Gotten from herds that are pasture-raised without the use of hormones, steroids, or antibiotics.
- Great Value: Depending on where you buy it, this will cost ~$55 for a 2-month supply.
- No-clumping: Since this comes in a pill form, you don’t have to worry about clumping.
Cons:
- Contains Dairy– For those with a high dairy sensitivity, this may be an issue.
- Contains Some Fillers: Contains binding ingredients: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and vegetable stearate
- Smaller per Serving Sizes: While some competitors provide up to 3,000 mg per serving, this Douglas Labs Colostrum only provide 1,000 mg.
Best for Athletes: Immune Tree Colostrum 6
Looking to supercharge your health? Support your body's natural defenses with Immune Tree Colostrum 6.
Optimized for fitness enthusiasts and athletes, Immune Tree Colostrum 6 offers a powerhouse blend of essential compounds to support performance and recovery.
Backed by rigorous quality testing, Immune Tree Colostrum 6 delivers robust nutrition to help active individuals stay strong, healthy, and on top of their game.
If you are a serious athlete looking to up your game, or even a fitness-enthusiast, you should DEFINITELY consider Immune-Tree Colostrum 6 as part of your arsenal.
I feel like it will be what sets apart those looking to "win" from those who want to just "play the game."
After all, when you have a product that supports you SO well and helps with your exercise recovery, how could you NOT perform better?
Go out and try it today. And please, reach out to us and let us know how much your performance has improved!
Serving Size:
- 1/2 tsp (1.5g)
- Bovine Colostrum per Serving: 1,500 mg
Pros:
- No additives: Gluten-free, GMO-free and Organic
- High-Absorption– Contains digestive enzymes (i.e-rennin) that will bypass your stomach acid and increase your body’s ability to absorb it.
- Maximum Strength– Loaded with 95 immune factors and 87 growth factors, this colostrum is up to 1000x more potent than our mother’s colostrum. Warning: Some people have reported this being too strong for them, so our advice would be to start off slow and consult a healthcare provide if there are any concerns.)
- Award-winning formula – Has won the Reader’s Choice Award 3x, with over 98% of the votes.
Cons:
- Clumpy- As with a lot of colostrum products, this one has the tendency to clump if not stirred well in your beverage.
- Some people have reported no noticeable difference after consuming this supplement.
Benefits of Colostrum
So now you have heard about our favorite products. Let's talk more about what the actual benefits of colostrum actually are.
The benefits of colostrum supplements can be grouped into four main categories:
- Immune system support
- Gut health improvement
- Athletic performance enhancement
- Anti-aging.
Let’s explore each of these in turn.
Immune System Boost
Colostrum supplements can provide a powerful boost to your immune system, helping to protect you from infections and illnesses.
This is largely due to the presence of immunoglobulins and other immune-enhancing components in colostrum, such as IgA and IgG antibodies that are known to help fight viruses and bacteria.
In fact, research suggests that colostrum can significantly increase your body’s chances of successfully fighting upper respiratory tract infections.
Personally, I have noticed that my resistance to colds and flus has been MUCH higher since taking colostrum.
While I can't say that it is 100% a result of me taking these supplements. I DO know that gut health is so strongly related to immunity that once the colostrum supplements started repairing my digestive tract then my improved immunity soon followed.
Makes sense, right?
Healthy Gut
Gut health plays a significant role in our overall well-being. That’s why the benefits of colostrum supplements for your gut cannot be ignored.
Colostrum supplements can promote a healthy gut environment by strengthening the gut wall and reducing gut permeability, allowing for better digestion and a decrease in inflammation.
This can lead to fewer digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation. This is also beneficial for individuals with “leaky gut” syndrome, a condition characterized by increased intestinal permeability.
I am guessing this is why most people start taking colostrum. Or maybe that's just because its why I started!
Regardless.
I don't think there is any argument about the benefits of colostrum in regards to your gut health.
It helps improve your gut. It just does.
If you don't believe us, then please do some research and learn why thousands of others are also claiming the same.
Improved Athletic Performance
Athletic performance is another area where colostrum supplements can have a significant impact.
They can help athletes achieve improved performance and faster recovery, as well as increased lean muscle mass. This is due to the presence of growth factors and other nutrients in the colostrum that promote muscle growth and repair.
Top-performing soccer players who consumed colostrum experienced a significant increase in squat jump and countermovement jump height after a six-week trial period.
Pretty crazy, right?
And...
Cyclists who were supplemented with colostrum performed significantly better than controls in a two-hour workload time trial. And in two other studies involving men who regularly exercise, colostrum supplementation resulted in better peak anaerobic cycling power and improved recovery after a first run.
With all this compelling data, it’s hard to ignore the potential benefits of adding colostrum into your routine.
Colostrum and Athletic performance for the win!
Slowing Down Aging
Finally, the anti-aging benefits of colostrum supplements are worth mentioning. By reducing inflammation, promoting skin health, and bolstering immunity, colostrum can help you look and feel your best as you age.
It's so hard to say if this is true or not, but I'd really like to believe that it is!
Colostrum is packed with immunoglobulins, which are powerful proteins that can help strengthen your immune system. Plus, its antioxidants can help diminish the appearance of wrinkles.
Moreover, there are anecdotal reports of colostrum helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, making you look and feel younger.
4 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Supplement
When choosing a colostrum supplement, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product.
- First, look at the source of the colostrum. Quality supplements like Armra Colostrum are derived from Grade A dairy cows that are not supplemented with rBST or BSE and are antibiotic-free, ensuring a high-quality product.
- The processing method of the colostrum is another important factor to consider.
- Check for products that are free of additives, fillers, and hormones for the best possible results.
- Consider the purity of the colostrum supplement to ensure you’re getting a product that’s free from contaminants and provides the maximum benefits.
Special Considerations: Lactose Intolerance, Pregnancy, and Vegetarianism
When considering colostrum supplements, it’s important to keep in mind certain special considerations.
Lactose Intolerance and Colostrum Supplements
For individuals with lactose intolerance, it’s important to note that colostrum supplements contain minimal lactose and are generally safe.
I personally am very sensitive to lactose and have not had any issues consuming colostrum supplements.
However, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a known allergy or sensitivity.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
For pregnant and breastfeeding women, it’s generally recommended to avoid colostrum supplements due to potential unknown effects.
While there is no specific evidence to indicate that colostrum may be harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and considering taking colostrum supplements, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Vegetarian and Vegan Concerns
Vegetarians and vegans should also consider their dietary preferences when choosing colostrum supplements.
While vegetarians can consume colostrum supplements, vegans may choose to avoid them due to their animal-derived ingredients.
It’s important for vegetarians and vegans to double-check the ingredients of colostrum supplements before taking them to ensure they are suitable for their dietary needs.
Summary
In conclusion, colostrum is a FANTASTIC addition to any health regimen and has the potential to provide us with many incredible benefits.
It contains a wide variety of proteins, immunoglobulins, growth factors, antimicrobial compounds, vitamins, and minerals that can help support immunity and overall health. .
The world of colostrum supplements is vast and full of potential health benefits. From boosting the immune system to improving gut health, enhancing athletic performance, and slowing down aging, colostrum offers a wide array of health benefits.
With the right supplement and usage, colostrum could be JUST what your body needed to boost your health regimen needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What form of colostrum is best?
Colostrum from grass-fed cows is generally considered the best, as it has higher levels of beneficial compounds.
Generally speaking, powdered supplements (vs. capsules) have quicker absorption as they don't have any type of barrier that might slow down the absorption.
How much colostrum supplement should I take?
While there is no standard dosage recommendations, it is generally recommended to take 500-2000mg of colostrum daily, divided into two doses. As always, it is best to consult your doctor or medical professional for guidance on the correct dosage for you.
How does taking colostrum supplements affect the baby calves?
As consumers, it's important to be mindful of where our products come from and how they are sourced, particularly when it comes to supplements. The question of whether companies are taking all of the colostrum from young calves to sell to humans is a valid one, and one that we should all be concerned about.
From what we could tell with our research, the companies listed on this list all conform to the ethical standards and sustainable practices. This means that only the excess/surplus colostrum is used for production and the baby calves are able to get all they need before the colostrum is collected.
What should I consider when choosing a colostrum supplement?
When choosing a colostrum supplement, ensure that it comes from a reliable source, has undergone minimal processing, and is free of additives and hormones. Look for a product with a high level of purity to get the most benefit.
