Lactoferrin is a natural component of milk, especially at the beginning of lactation (in the so-called colostrum). Additionally, it is found in many organs and cells of the body that can produce it. It is also available in the form of capsules, powder and in other food products as an additive. Most often it is of bovine origin, with a structure very similar to that of humans. It performs many functions in the body. It is often used to support immunity or iron management.

Properties of lactoferrin

Iron Binding

This protein maintains iron homeostasis in the body. Due to its structure, it has the ability to bind iron, even more than transferrin. This is a reversible process, which does not mean that people with anemia should avoid it, quite the opposite. Lactoferrin improves iron parameters in the blood, including hemoglobin and ferritin levels, and additionally reduces inflammation in the body. Using iron alone, on the contrary, has pro-inflammatory tendencies, so lactoferrin is a good alternative. All the more so because, in comparison with iron sulfate, lactoferrin showed a better improvement in the mentioned parameters. It will support absorption of this element.

Many people focus on iron deficiencies and their replenishment, which is important. However, you should know that too much is harmful. Too much of this element causes the growth of free radicals. They, in turn, harm the cells. Additionally, pathogens need iron to produce energy, just like humans.

Strengthening the body’s defense functions

There is a reason that this compound is found in human milk. Babies have a poorly developed immune system, so they rely largely on what they get from their mother. Lactoferrin takes care of their innate immunity. Studies confirm that it protects against sepsis. Lactoferrin takes away the iron needed for pathogens to grow. This compound has a wide range of antibacterial properties against both Gram- and Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, it does not allow them to create their own protective barrier, which is the biofilm. In addition, it has antiviral properties and has the ability to bind to the virus envelope, which disrupts its penetration and development in the body.

This applies to many viruses, including:

• HPV
• HSV-1 and HSV-2 (herpes simplex)
• HIV
• SARS-CoV-2.

It stimulates the immune system to produce cytokines. It promotes the maturation of immune cells so that they can perform their tasks.1 It is also found in saliva, which is one of the first protective barriers. Lactoferrin has anti-inflammatory effects both locally and throughout the body, which is an additional advantage. It can be used to prevent various types of infections.

Beneficial effect on the intestines

This glycoprotein is also a prebiotic, or food for beneficial bacteria. It has a positive effect on the condition of the mucous membranes, including the intestines. It can prevent diarrhea and, if present, alleviate the symptoms. It protects against bacterial toxins, so-called LPS, and infants against necrotizing enterocolitis.

As previously described, thanks to its characteristic properties it prevents gastrointestinal infections of:

• bacterial
• viral
• fungal
• Parasitic origin.

It also supports the treatment of Helicobacter Pylori, present in the stomach.

Reproduction and pregnancy

One results from the other, so since this glycoprotein beneficially modifies the microbiome, it will also help increase fertility and during pregnancy. Intestinal dysbiosis increases the risk of miscarriage or early birth. Both oral and vaginal use support the growth of beneficial bacteria. It also prevents infections in the reproductive organs, which may affect fertility.

Anti-cancer properties

The anticancer effect of lactoferrin is interesting due to its selectivity towards cancer cells. It inhibits angiogenesis and proliferation, and triggers apoptosis, i.e. death of pathological cells. The antioxidant properties of this protein also provide good prevention against cancer and DNA damage. Support for the adaptive immune system complements the previous functions in anti-carcinogenic action.

Other properties

This valuable milk protein even penetrates the brain and has neuroprotective potential. It may improve the health of people with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. In addition, it participates in the regulation of lipid metabolism and may reduce fatty liver disease. Its potential in strengthening bones has also been noted. Thanks to the versatile properties described above, lactoferrin slows down the aging process of the body.

Safety of using lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is an EFSA and FDA approved substance, which is not surprising since we naturally have this ingredient in our bodies and in breast milk. Only people with an allergy to cow’s milk proteins cannot use this compound for obvious reasons. It can be used internally but also externally – locally, due to its antimicrobial functions. It is typically found in doses of 100-200mg per serving, which seems to be enough to achieve benefits from taking it.

Bibliography:
Kowalczyk P, Kaczyńska K, Kleczkowska P, Bukowska-Ośko I, Kramkowski K, Sulejczak D. The Lactoferrin Phenomenon-A Miracle Molecule. Molecules. 2022 May 4;27(9):2941.
Rosa L, Cutone A, Lepanto MS, Paesano R, Valenti P. Lactoferrin: A Natural Glycoprotein Involved in Iron and Inflammatory Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci. 2017 Sep 15;18(9):1985.
Zhao X, Zhang X, Xu T, Luo J, Luo Y, An P. Comparative Effects between Oral Lactoferrin and Ferrous Sulfate Supplementation on Iron-Deficiency Anemia: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 27;14(3):543.
Kaplan M, Baktıroğlu M, Kalkan AE, Canbolat AA, Lombardo M, Raposo A, de Brito Alves JL, Witkowska AM, Karav S. Lactoferrin: A Promising Therapeutic Molecule against Human Papillomavirus. Nutrients. 2024 Sep 12;16(18):3073.
Cutone A, Rosa L, Ianiro G, Lepanto MS, Bonaccorsi di Patti MC, Valenti P, Musci G. Lactoferrin’s Anti-Cancer Properties: Safety, Selectivity, and Wide Range of Action. Biomolecules. 2020 Mar 15;10(3):456.