What Is Lactoferrin? All You Need to Know About Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is a protein with multiple functions, and it’s primarily found in the breast milk of many mammals. Although it has several properties,, the most well-known is its role in iron metabolism (which is reflected in its name: lacto-ferrin, from Latin “lact”- meaning milk and “-ferrin”, related to iron). This makes lactoferrin particularly useful in the treatment of anaemia. 
It’s also known for its antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, lactoferrin has proven useful in the treatment of degenerative nerve diseases, mood disorders, fertility issues, pregnancy, and even cancer, as we will discuss later.

Where is Lactoferrin Found?

As mentioned earlier, lactoferrin is present in the milk of most mammals, but it’s also found in areas where the body needs a rapid and effective immune response in cells (such as on mucosal surfaces and in saliva). 
The colostrum contains more than 5 grams of lactoferrin per litre (7 times more than in breast milk), which provides a significant protection for newborns against potential infections.

Properties of Lactoferrin

Now, let’s explore the properties of lactoferrin in more detail. To understand the benefits of this protein, we first need to explain what oxidative stress is and why it’s so important. 

Antioxidant Effect

Throughout our lives, we are exposed to toxins and pathogens, and we may experience various diseases or illnesses. 
The results of these processes is an imbalance between production and accumulation of free radicals. 
Free radicals are molecules that cause oxidation in cells and tissues, causing damage. 
These free radicals serve as biomarkers of toxicity. They are associated to the development and progression of over 100 diseases, and the ageing process can increase their production.

It’s important to note that the use of antioxidants in high amounts is no longer recommended to neutralize accumulated free radicals. For example, high dosages of vitamin E can increase the risk of several types of cancer. 
For this reason, lactoferrin is a more interesting and effective compound for countering the damage caused by oxidative stress.

Lactoferrin and the Immune System

The benefits of lactoferrin on our immune system have been tested in different studies. 
It reduces the duration and frequency of diarrhoea and gastrointestinal infection in children and premature babies.

Babies who are breastfed during the first six months of their lives are healthier thanks to multiple substances that can be found in breast milk. 
For example, it contains immune cells. 
Lactoferrin has been proven to enhance the protective effect of breast milk, and strengthen the immune system. 
Another example is in cases of an immature digestive system and microbiota, where the use of lactoferrin improves nutrient absorption.

In addition, lactoferrin stimulates the receptors for the absorption of vitamin D, which is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system and for bone metabolism.

Lactoferrin and Fertility

Lactoferrin contributes to the normal growth and development of the fetus. 
It protects from the dangerous consequences of vaginal dysbiosis (vaginal microbiota), making it a preventive measure in cases of premature birth and abortion.

It’s also used as a prebiotic for fertility treatments for both men and women. 
It keeps infections in the genital tract away, and it balances the ecosystem of the reproductive apparatus. It also regulates the amount of iron in sperm, improving its quality.

Protection Against Toxins and Pathogens

Lactoferrin’s antioxidant effects have strong anti-infective properties, helping to keep viruses, bacteria, fungi, and even parasites at bay. 
This makes it useful in cases of colitis, Helicobacter pylori infections, biofilm formation (resistance forms of certain pathogens), or after bowel resection surgery. 
These properties, in addition to its anti-infective ability, have also been useful in cases of gastritis, enteritis and allergies.

It’s important to highlight that lactoferrin can enhance the effectiveness of antiviral medications, making it a valuable complementary tool in treatment protocols. Lactoferrin has also been shown to inhibit the binding to COVID-19 receptors, helping protect against respiratory infections.

Protection Against Cancer

Lactoferrin’s antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects give it a strong ability to preserve DNA integrity and prevent damage. 
For this reason, it’s useful in cancer prevention, as DNA damage increases the predisposition to tumour development. 
These effects can also help protect against cancer progression, as lactoferrin has the ability to selectively target cancerous cells. 
Examples include leukaemia, colon cancer and brain tumours, among others.

Anti-Ageing

One of the factors associated with ageing is the accumulation of free radicals, as mentioned before. 
This contributes significantly to the ageing process, with scientific evidence even ranking it as the most important factor. 
Additionally, the accumulation of oxidative stress increases susceptibility to developing systemic diseases. We’ve mentioned cancer, but there are also other conditions such as certain metabolic, autoimmune, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and respiratory diseases.

In contrast, lactoferrin’s antioxidant potential supports cellular and organ health, increasing life expectancy. 
This occurs through various mechanisms, including the regulation of gene expression, tissue regeneration, modification of fat metabolism, and improvement of insulin response. 
This is useful in diseases that are highly prevalent in older age groups, such as diabetes and osteoporosis. 
In addition, due to its neuroprotective factors, it has shown positive effects on Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Lactoferrin Contraindications: What You Need to Know

Lactoferrin is an essential protein in our diet, and it has significant nutritional value. Its use is safe and has been authorized by the European Parliament, the EFSA and the FDA.

However, it should not be used in cases where there is a suspicion or diagnosis of an allergy to cow’s milk protein. Its composition should also be carefully reviewed to avoid formulations that include sugars naturally derived from milk, particularly for individuals with lactose intolerance. It’s also important that the laboratory ensures the integrity of the protein formulation, since it may be damaged during the extraction process.