Lactoferrin Uses

A naturally occurring protein, lactoferrin is present in both human and animal milk. We ingest the protein any time we consume dairy products. It can also be synthesized by rice that has been specially engineered. This synthesized version is available as both a powder and as capsules. According to Dr. Dorit Naot of the Department of Medicine at the University of Auckland, lactoferrin is iron-binding, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and promotes bone growth. Because of these properties, lactoferrin has many uses.

Known Effective Uses

• The primary medicinal use of lactoferrin is as a treatment for hepatitis C, a viral infection that attacks the liver. Medical researchers have found that lactoferrin levels are seven times higher in colostrum -- the first milk a breast-feeding mother produces -- than in milk produced later. The anti-microbial properties of lactoferrin protect breast-fed infants from infections. Because of these anti-microbial properties, lactoferrin is used to kill bacteria in meat processing plants.

Suspected Effective Uses

• There is some evidence that lactoferrin can help fight H pylori infections. H pylori is a bacteria that causes ulcer formation. Some studies have shown that other drugs are more effective at treating H pylori infections when taken in conjunction with lactoferrin. Other similar studies, however, failed to show these same benefits. Researchers are currently conducting studies to evaluate lactoferrin's effectiveness at preventing age-related damage to the body, regulating the metabolism of iron, helping to fight bacterial and viral infections, promoting bone growth, stimulating the immune system and improving acne symptoms.

Dosage

• It is safe to consume lactoferrin in amounts present in food sources. For treating hepatitis C, doctors recommend taking 1.8 to 3.6 g of bovine lactoferrin daily. These are relatively high doses of lactoferrin that should only be taken under medical supervision.

Side Effects and Interactions

• Some people experience diarrhea when taking lactoferrin. High doses of the protein can lead to chills, constipation, fatigue, loss of appetite and skin rashes. Because research has not demonstrated that it is safe for pregnant and breast-feeding women, these women should avoid taking lactoferrin supplements.