In the USA, demand for colostrum — the first milk produced after childbirth — is rapidly growing. It is sold as expensive supplements and advertised as a support for immunity, digestion, and physical fitness. The New York Post
investigated
how much these claims are backed by research.
Павялічыць
Photo: Emran Uddin / Vecteezy.com
In recent years, an unexpected commercial interest has emerged around breast milk. In 2025, a TikTok blogger claimed to have earned over 13 thousand dollars by selling her milk to bodybuilders, convinced that it would help them gain muscle mass faster. In Australia, journalists documented cases where oncology patients searched for breast milk via Facebook, believing it would aid in their treatment.
There is particular demand for colostrum, the first milk produced in the last weeks of pregnancy and in the first days after childbirth. It is often called “liquid gold” — for its high concentration of antibodies and nutrients that support the baby’s immune system and gut development. All female mammals produce colostrum.
Now, however, it has also become popular among adults — in the form of dietary supplements.
Colostrum Boom
As experts note, most colostrum supplements are made from raw materials obtained from cows. Such products are sold in powder or capsule form. The price of one package can exceed 100 dollars.
According to nutrition specialists, bovine colostrum contains the same key components as human colostrum: immunoglobulins (antibodies), growth factors, and protective proteins. These are associated with potential benefits for the gut, immune system, and recovery after exertion.
Sales are growing rapidly. In the last year, Americans spent about 19 million dollars on colostrum supplements. According to market analysts, the number of products with this ingredient has increased by more than 150% — making it the fastest-growing segment in its category.
Experts believe that the rise in popularity is due to several factors: new research on the benefits of colostrum and endorsements from celebrities.
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Bovine colostrum and powder derived from it. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
What the research says
Scientific conclusions are still cautious. More research is emerging, but there is no definitive consensus.
A review published in 2022 showed that colostrum can strengthen the intestinal lining and reduce its permeability, which contributes to improved digestion and strengthened immune defense. A systematic review from 2024 found that in most of the analyzed studies, colostrum intake reduced the frequency of diarrhea.
There is also data on reducing the risk of upper respiratory tract infections in students and athletes. In a randomized study involving medical students — who have an increased risk due to stress and contact with patients — colostrum supplements provided significant immune protection.
A significant part of scientific work is dedicated to sports. Colostrum can help maintain performance during intense training and during recovery. However, there is currently little evidence that it significantly affects muscle mass growth or changes in body composition.
The possible effect of local application is also mentioned separately — for example, to reduce symptoms of vaginal dryness in women. But overall, expert opinion is that the main potential benefits relate to the gut and immune system, and these are likely the same for men and women.
At the same time, some of the bold claims — about less bloating, increased strength and muscle mass, and thicker hair — are based on studies initiated by the manufacturers themselves.
How to choose and who should avoid it
When choosing bovine colostrum supplements, experts advise paying attention to the origin of the raw material and the processing method. It is important under what conditions the cows are kept and whether hormones or genetically modified feeds are used, as well as how the colostrum is obtained and dried. At high temperatures, some bioactive compounds can be destroyed, so manufacturers usually emphasize the use of gentle processing methods. For the same reason, the powder is not recommended to be mixed with hot drinks.
Bovine colostrum supplements are not suitable for people with an allergy to cow’s milk protein. They also contain lactose, so bloating and discomfort may occur in case of intolerance.
Most experts interviewed by The New York Post note: colostrum is not a magic remedy, but a biologically active product that, in certain situations — during stress, intense training, or increased risk of infections — can provide additional support to the gut and immune system.
