DEFINITION

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein found in numerous bodily fluids, such as breast milk, tears, mucus, blood and saliva. High concentrations of Lactoferrin are found in human breast milk and it is produced commercially from cow's milk.

DESCRIPTION

Lactoferrin is present in both breast and cow's milk, with much higher levels found in human milk. Lactoferrin concentrations are highest in the colostrum that is passed to the newborn infant. Lactoferrin serves as a protective protein that helps to strengthen the immune system of the infant. Lactoferrin has a very high affinity for iron and binds quickly with it in the body. Most of the biological activities of Lactoferrin are related to this activity.

MEDICAL USE

Research shows that Lactoferrin helps to protect the human body from infections by interacting with the immune system. The antibacterial activity of Lactoferrin is due to its ability to bind directly to harmful bacteria and also to deprive bacteria of the iron it requires for growth. Lactoferrin also has antiviral and antifungal activities. It prevents viruses from entering the cells of the body in two ways; firstly by blocking the cellular receptors and secondly by directly binding to the virus particles. Lactoferrin assists in the development of healthy intestinal flora by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria in the digestive tract The results from a recent clinical trial indicate that the faeces of infants receiving Lactoferrin through breast milk contain lower levels of harmful E. coli bacteria and higher levels of beneficial L. bifidus bacteria compared with the faeces of formula-fed infants. Lactoferrin exerts an antioxidant activity by preventing 'free iron' from forming harmful free-radicals in the body. Free radicals are known to trigger certain chain reactions (oxidation processes) that can damage cell membranes and make the body more susceptible to cancer, ageing processes, and heart disease. Free radicals have been implicated in many diseases and cancers.

DOSAGE

The recommended dosage for Lactoferrin can vary from between 10 to 300 mg per day according to a person's age, weight and state of health. It is advisable to seek the advice of a health care professional before taking Lactoferrin.

NOTES