Lactoferrin Supplement - Active Lactoferrin for the Immune System Health

Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein, is one of the most active components of colostrum (the first form of breast milk) and of whey. It is a powerful antioxidant which also has remarkable and unrivalled immuno-stimulant, antiviral and anti-microbial properties.

What is Lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin belongs to the cytokine family, which is responsible for coordinating the cells' immune response to infections and tumors. In healthy individuals, lactoferrin is concentrated at the orifices (mouth, nose, eyes), protecting them from infections.

It also works by binding to the iron around an infection, thus depriving it of a vital means of multiplying and growing - its affinity for iron is 3,000 times higher than that of serum transferrin: in the presence of lactoferrin, pathogenic bacteria are strongly inhibited, even eliminated. Iron bound to lactoferrin will then be re-circulated around the body for a prolonged period, helping to regulate iron metabolism in the case of either deficiency or excess.

What are the benefits associated with Lactoferrin?

While many of lactoferrin's benefits originate from its affinity for iron, it has other, unrelated functions:

• Directly stimulates the immune system.
• Has direct anti-bacterial properties (on Escherichia coli, salmonella, staphyloccus aureus), anti-fungal properties (on Candida albicans) and even anti-viral properties, as it naturally stimulates the growth of bifidobacteria, natural killer cells and neutrophil activity. This triple action makes this remarkable compound an essential part of any immune support program.
• Stimulates the growth of 'good' intestinal flora.
• Has direct antioxidant activity.
• Helps control age-associated cell damage.

Lactoferrin is also used by sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome and by those susceptible to iron deficiency (certain women, elderly people, vegetarians). Other powerful antioxidants that support lactoferrin are also available in the SuperSmart catalogue. Reishi extract, for example, is a fungus known for its antioxidant activity and multiple protective benefits. In addition, the anti-aging formulation Resveratrol Synergy contains a selection of potent antioxidants which in particular include trans resveratrol, quercetin and vitamin C.