Lactoferrin

Buy lactoferrin: the iron-binding protein from milk

Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring protein that is best known from breast milk and cow's milk. It is a so-called iron-binding glycoprotein: a protein that can bind iron. Lactoferrin is popular with people who are looking for a milk protein as a supplement to their diet. On this page you will read what lactoferrin is exactly, where it comes from, in what form you find it and what to pay attention to when buying.

In our assortment you will find lactoferrin as a food supplement in capsule form. It is Lactoferrin 200 mg from the brand Osavi, a milk protein that has been processed into a handy capsule. Below we compare the properties, discuss the dosage according to the label and explain for whom this type of supplement can be interesting.

What is lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin is a protein that belongs to the family of transferrins, the group of proteins that can bind and transport iron. It occurs naturally in various body fluids and is present in a relatively high concentration in colostrum (the first milk) and in regular milk. The name therefore refers to milk (lacto) and iron (ferrin). As a glycoprotein, it consists of a protein chain with attached sugar groups.

Where does lactoferrin come from?

The lactoferrin in supplements is usually obtained from cow's milk (bovine lactoferrin). Through a purification process, the protein is isolated from the milk and concentrated into a powder, which is then processed into capsules. Lactoferrin is also naturally found in other dairy products and in breast milk, but the amounts you get with normal food are lower than the concentrated form in a supplement.

Lactoferrin and iron

The special property of lactoferrin is that it can bind iron. It is important to know that a lactoferrin supplement itself is not a noteworthy source of iron: it is the protein, not an iron preparation. If you specifically want to supplement your iron intake, look at products that are formulated as an iron supplement.

Forms and variants

Lactoferrin is almost always offered as a capsule or tablet, because it is a protein in powder form that is so easy to dose. In our assortment you will find the capsule form with 200 mg of lactoferrin per capsule. Capsules have the advantage that they mask the neutral, slightly milky taste of the powder and that you know exactly how much you are taking in. When comparing, pay attention to the amount of lactoferrin per capsule and to the number of capsules per package.

Daily dosage

The usual dosage varies per product and depends on the content per capsule. With the Osavi capsules, it is 200 mg of lactoferrin per capsule. Follow the daily dosage indicated by the manufacturer and preferably take the capsule with some water. A food supplement is intended as a supplement to the diet and not as a replacement for a varied diet. Always consult the instructions for use on the packaging for the correct dosage and use.

When do you take lactoferrin?

The time of intake is largely a matter of convenience: choose a time that you can easily maintain, so that you do not forget the daily use. Many people take lactoferrin on an empty stomach, for example in the morning before breakfast, but you can also take it with a meal. Take the capsule with a large swallow of water. Always look at the instructions for use on the packaging for the recommended time of intake.

Who is lactoferrin interesting for?

Lactoferrin appeals especially to people who are interested in milk proteins such as lactoferrin. Because it is obtained from cow's milk, it is not suitable for people with a cow's milk protein allergy. Are you pregnant, breastfeeding, using medications or do you have a condition? Then consult your general practitioner or an expert before you start using a supplement.

What to pay attention to when buying lactoferrin?

When purchasing, look at the amount of lactoferrin per capsule, the origin of the protein (bovine lactoferrin from cow's milk) and the purity of the formula. A short list of ingredients without unnecessary additives is often a plus. Also pay attention to the brand and to clear labeling with dosage and shelf life. Store the product dry and out of reach of children.

Also view our related collections Colostrum and Iron.

Want to know more? Read our explanation what lactoferrin is: sources, form and use.