12 Lactoferrin Benefits for Immune Health and Beyond

Lactoferrin has gained growing attention in the world of health and nutrition for its impressive immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties. Naturally found in milk and bodily fluids, this iron-binding protein offers numerous benefits, from supporting immune health to promoting gut function.

But what exactly is lactoferrin, and how can it benefit you?

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about lactoferrin, including its benefits, food sources, supplements, dosage and potential side effects.

What is lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring glycoprotein primarily found in human and cow’s milk, especially colostrum, the first form of milk produced after childbirth. The body also produces it in various secretions, including saliva, tears, mucus and bile.

It belongs to the transferrin family of proteins, which bind and transport iron in the body.

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One of lactoferrin’s primary roles is to regulate iron absorption and transport, but it also plays a key role in immune defense, thanks to its ability to fight bacteria, viruses, fungi and inflammation.

Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, lactoferrin is often used in dietary supplements and medical applications.

Health benefits

1. Boosts immune function

Lactoferrin is well-known for its immune-modulating properties. Research has shown it can enhance the activity of immune cells like natural killer cells and neutrophils, improving the body’s ability to fight infections.

It supports immune health by stimulating white blood cell production and enhancing the body’s defense against pathogens. Studies have shown it may help fight infections, including bacteria, viruses and fungi.

This supplement also acts as a mediator between the innate and adaptive immune systems. It influences the development of T-helper cell polarization and modulates interactions between innate and adaptive immune components.

This means it helps the body’s initial, rapid immune response communicate effectively with the more targeted, long-term immune response.

Lactoferrin affects various immune cells, including:

• increasing natural killer (NK) cell activity
• enhancing neutrophil phagocytic activity
• activating macrophages

These actions contribute to a more robust and effective immune response against pathogens.

In addition, lactoferrin modulates the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses. It can influence the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, like TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, and also increase the production of IL-12, which is crucial for T-cell responses.

This regulation of cytokine production helps keep the immune system in a state of homeostasis.

It also has been shown to induce the migration of human peripheral blood monocytes. This is important for the immune system’s ability to respond to infection.

2. Holds antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral properties

Lactoferrin has a unique ability to bind iron, which bacteria need to grow. By depriving pathogens of iron, lactoferrin inhibits bacterial growth.

It also has been shown to block the attachment and entry of viruses into host cells, including herpes, hepatitis C and rotavirus. Research has revealed it is effective against various other pathogens as well, including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida species.

Beyond iron sequestration, it exhibits bactericidal activity through direct interactions with bacterial surfaces. It can bind to lipopolysaccharides on gram-negative bacteria, leading to destabilization of the bacterial outer membrane and subsequent cell lysis.

Additionally, lactoferrin-derived peptides, such as lactoferricin, have been identified to possess potent antibacterial activities.

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It also displays antiviral activity against a broad spectrum of viruses, including both DNA and RNA viruses. Its antiviral mechanisms primarily involve interference in the early stages of viral infection.

Lactoferrin can prevent viral entry into host cells by binding to viral particles or blocking cellular receptors essential for viral attachment. For instance, studies have shown that lactoferrin inhibits the infection of viruses, such as rotavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes simplex viruses and HIV, by these mechanisms.

While in vitro studies have consistently demonstrated lactoferrin’s antimicrobial and antiviral efficacy, clinical trials in humans have yielded varying results. Further clinical research is necessary to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential and establish effective dosing regimens.

3. Supports gut health

Because lactoferrin reduces harmful bacteria while encouraging beneficial bacteria, it can help balance gut microbiota. Studies have found that lactoferrin may reduce intestinal inflammation and improve symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, leaky guy syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases.

A 2014 study analyzed the correlation between lactoferrin concentrations in breast milk and infant feces with gut microbiota composition. The findings indicated that higher lactoferrin levels in breast milk were associated with increased fecal lactoferrin concentrations in infants, suggesting that breast milk is a primary source of lactoferrin in the infant gut.

Other research has demonstrated that lactoferrin influences systemic and gastrointestinal immune development by promoting a balanced T-helper-1/T-helper-2 cytokine response. Additionally, supplementation with this protein has been associated with the prevention of infections, late-onset sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis in clinical studies.

4. Promotes iron absorption and prevents anemia

Lactoferrin helps regulate iron homeostasis and improves iron absorption without causing oxidative stress, making it potentially beneficial for treating iron-deficiency anemia.

A randomized, controlled trial examined iron absorption from recombinant human lactoferrin in young women. Participants consumed meals supplemented with either lactoferrin-bound iron or ferrous sulfate. The study found no significant difference in iron absorption between the two groups, indicating that iron from lactoferrin is as bioavailable as that from ferrous sulfate.

Apo-lactoferrin, in particular, was found to provide the greatest effect of iron absorption in a study conducted on Kenyan infants.

A meta-analysis of randomized trials compared daily oral bovine lactoferrin to ferrous sulfate in pregnant women with anemia. The results favored lactoferrin, showing a significant increase in hemoglobin levels after four weeks of treatment.

Additionally, it was associated with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to ferrous sulfate.

Another pilot study investigated its effectiveness in treating anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study reported a significant increase in hemoglobin levels after four weeks of daily oral lactoferrin therapy, with or without iron supplementation.

That’s not all. It’s been shown to improve hemoglobin levels and iron parameters, with fewer side effects compared to traditional iron supplements, in children. Research has also found it can similarly benefit patients undergoing hemodialysis, along with cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

5. Possesses anti-inflammatory effects

Lactoferrin has been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, making it useful in controlling chronic inflammation that underlies many health conditions.

In the context of breast milk, lactoferrin contributes to its anti-inflammatory effects. Breastfeeding has been associated with reduced inflammation, attributed to components like glycoproteins.

Lactoferrin’s anti-inflammatory mechanisms include its iron-binding capacity, inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), stimulation of lymphocyte activity and maturation, and maintenance of an antioxidant environment. These properties collectively help protect infants against inflammatory conditions and infections.

6. Protects skin health

Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, lactoferrin is used in skin care products to help manage acne and promote wound healing. It may help reduce acne and skin inflammation, as it can inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria and reduce oil production.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the effects of lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk on patients aged 18 to 30 with acne vulgaris. Over 12 weeks, participants consuming 200 mg of the milk daily experienced significant improvements, including a 38.6% reduction in inflammatory lesion count, a 23.1% decrease in total lesion count and a 20.3% reduction in acne grade compared to the placebo group.

Additionally, the lactoferrin group showed a 31.1% decrease in sebum content.

A systematic review of clinical studies evaluated its effectiveness in various dermatological conditions. The review found encouraging evidence suggesting that lactoferrin may be beneficial in managing psoriasis and aiding the healing of diabetic ulcerations.

However, the review emphasized the need for further research to establish it as a complementary therapy in clinical settings.

Research also has identified lactoferrin in human sweat, indicating its role in the skin’s defense against infections. Its presence in sweat suggests it contributes to the antimicrobial barrier, protecting the skin from pathogenic microorganisms.

7. Strengthens bones

Emerging research has suggested lactoferrin may stimulate bone growth and mineralization, making it potentially useful in preventing osteoporosis.

A study published in Osteoporosis International investigated the impact of ribonuclease-enriched lactoferrin (R-ELF) supplementation on bone health in postmenopausal women. Over six months, participants receiving R-ELF showed a 14% decrease in urine deoxypyridinoline (Dpd) levels, a marker of bone resorption, compared to a 19% increase in the placebo group.

In addition, serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) levels, indicative of bone formation, increased by 45% in the R-ELF group versus 25% in the placebo group. These findings suggest that R-ELF supplementation may reduce bone resorption and promote bone formation, potentially restoring balance in bone turnover.

This glycoprotein also has been shown to stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. It inhibits the formation and activity of osteoclasts, the cells involved in bone resorption, thereby reducing bone loss.

8. Aids fertility

Some evidence has indicated lactoferrin may improve reproductive health by supporting vaginal microbiota and reducing infections.

For example, research has identified lactoferrin as a significant heparin-binding protein in human seminal plasma. Its presence suggests a potential role in modulating sperm functions, such as capacitation and the acrosome reaction, which are critical for fertilization.

Meanwhile, a 2019 study comparing seminal plasma proteins between acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors and healthy controls found elevated levels of lactoferrin in the survivors. This increase was associated with reduced semen quality, indicating that lactoferrin levels might reflect underlying inflammatory or pathological conditions affecting fertility.

9. May help fight cancer

Some studies have suggested lactoferrin may have anticancer effects by inhibiting tumor growth, reducing inflammation and enhancing immune response. Preliminary studies have shown these effects may come from modulating immune responses and inhibiting tumor growth, though more human research is needed.

A clinical trial investigated the effects of bovine lactoferrin (bLF) on the growth of adenomatous polyps in humans. The study demonstrated that ingestion of bLF inhibited the growth of these polyps, suggesting a potential role in reducing the risk of colon carcinogenesis.

In vitro studies also have shown that bovine lactoferricin (a peptide derived from lactoferrin) can induce apoptosis in human leukemia and carcinoma cell lines. This process involves the production of reactive oxygen species and activation of caspases, leading to programmed cell death.

10. Encourages neonatal health

Added to infant formula, lactoferrin supports immune development and gut health in newborns. It exhibits antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and fungi.

Clinical trials have shown that supplementation with bLF, alone or combined with probiotics like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), significantly reduces the incidence of late-onset sepsis in very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates. In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial involving 472 VLBW infants, the incidence of late-onset sepsis was notably lower in groups receiving bLF (5.9%) and bLF plus LGG (4.6%) compared to the control group (17.3%).

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal disease primarily affecting preterm infants. Supplementation with lactoferrin has been associated with a decreased incidence of NEC. A Cochrane review highlighted that, as a natural component of human colostrum and milk, it enhances host defenses and may effectively prevent sepsis and NEC in preterm neonates.

A 2024 study indicated that lactoferrin intake from maternal milk during the neonatal period is associated with positive outcomes in brain development, highlighting its potential as a dietary supplement in neonatal intensive care settings.

Lactoferrin also plays a significant role in modulating the neonatal immune system. It enhances the activity of immune cells and regulates inflammatory responses, contributing to the overall health and resilience of infants against infections.

A comprehensive review emphasized its impact on feeding, the microbiome and clinical outcomes in neonates and infants, underscoring its importance in early-life immune development.

11. May improve athletic performance

Some athletes use lactoferrin to improve iron metabolism and reduce exercise-induced inflammation. While direct research on lactoferrin alone is limited, studies involving bovine colostrum, which contains lactoferrin along with other bioactive components, provide insights into its possible benefits for athletes.

A review of studies investigating bovine colostrum supplementation suggested that it may improve exercise performance, particularly during periods of high-intensity training. The combined presence of growth factors, immunoglobulins, cytokines, lactoferrin and hormones in colostrum is believed to enhance immune function, gastrointestinal integrity and the neuroendocrine system, all of which can be compromised during intensive training.

However, the review also noted that varying doses and supplementation periods across studies make it challenging to draw definitive conclusions.

A 2024 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study evaluated the effects of 12 weeks of bovine colostrum supplementation on swimming-specific performance in endurance-trained male athletes. While the study found no significant effect on overall swimming performance, there was a non-significant trend toward improved times after colostrum supplementation compared to placebo.

This suggests that colostrum, and potentially its lactoferrin component, might offer subtle performance benefits that warrant further investigation.

12. Benefits dental health

Lactoferrin may help prevent gum disease and oral infections by reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth. It exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.

Its presence in saliva serves as a defense mechanism against bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, which is implicated in dental caries, and periodontopathic bacteria associated with periodontal diseases. By inhibiting bacterial growth and biofilm formation, it helps maintain oral health.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that supplementation with lactoferrin can improve gingival inflammation, as well. In a randomized, controlled trial, participants consuming tablets containing lactoferrin (60 mg/day) and lactoperoxidase (7.8 mg/day) for 12 weeks showed significant reductions in gingival index scores compared to a placebo group.

It has been found to inhibit the initial attachment of cariogenic bacteria to tooth surfaces. Studies have relayed that both bovine and human lactoferrin can prevent Streptococcus mutans from adhering to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite, thereby reducing the risk of dental caries.

Finally, its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a potential therapeutic agent for various oral conditions, including xerostomia (dry mouth), halitosis (bad breath), gingivitis and periodontitis. Its ability to disrupt biofilms and reduce microbial replication offers a promising approach to managing these conditions without adverse effects.

Food sources

Lactoferrin is naturally found in:

• Human breast milk (especially colostrum)
• Cow’s milk (higher concentrations in colostrum)
• Buttermilk
• Kefir
• Dairy products, like cheese (including Swiss cheese, semi-hard cheeses like gouda, ricotta cheese and cottage cheese) and yogurt (in smaller amounts)
• Whey protein and colostrum supplements

However, levels in food sources are relatively low, and lactoferrin supplements are often used for therapeutic purposes to achieve higher dosages.

Supplements and dosage

Lactoferrin supplements are typically derived from cow’s milk (bovine lactoferrin) and come in capsule or powder form. They’re also available in liquid forms.

There is no standard dosage recommendation. Studies have tested 100 milligrams daily up to 4,500 milligrams per day with no signs of known toxicity.

Thus, dosages vary depending on the intended use, product, age, gender, health condition and other factors, but common recommendations include:

• For immune support: 100-600 mg per day
• For iron absorption or anemia: 100-300 mg per day
• For skin health (acne): 100 mg twice daily or up to 500 mg per day

Take lactoferrin on an empty stomach for better absorption.

It’s best to follow manufacturer guidelines or consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations, especially if using for a specific condition or if pregnant/nursing.

Similar supplements

If you’re interested in lactoferrin for its health benefits, here are some comparable supplements that share similar properties:

• Colostrum: Rich in antibodies, lactoferrin and other immune-boosting compounds
• Probiotics: Help balance gut bacteria and support immunity
• Whey protein: Contains small amounts of lactoferrin and supports muscle and immune health
• Iron supplements: Support for anemia and beneficial for those seeking to improve iron levels without lactoferrin
• Immunoglobulin supplements: Provide antibody support for immunity
• Boron: Supports bone health, reduces inflammation and boosts immune response
• Garlic: Natural antimicrobial and antiviral, it supports immune and cardiovascular health
• Vitamin A: Essential for immune function, gut lining integrity and skin health
• Vitamin D: Modulates immune response, reduces inflammation and supports bone health
• Oregano oil: Powerful natural antimicrobial and antiviral, it supports gut and immune health

Risks and side effects

Lactoferrin is generally safe when consumed in moderate doses. It is naturally present in many foods and bodily fluids.

However, high doses or long-term supplementation may cause side effects, such as:

• Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, constipation, diarrhea, bloating)
• Possible allergic reactions in people sensitive to dairy proteins
• Skin rashes (rare)
• Iron overload is unlikely but should be monitored if combining with iron supplements

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use, although lactoferrin naturally occurs in breast milk.

Individuals with milk allergies should avoid lactoferrin derived from dairy sources.

Conclusion

• Lactoferrin is a powerful, naturally occurring protein with immune-boosting, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and iron-regulating benefits.
• It supports gut health, skin health, iron absorption, and may even have roles in bone health and cancer prevention.
• While found in human and cow’s milk, supplements are often used for therapeutic purposes.
• Lactoferrin is generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or managing a medical condition.
• If you’re seeking natural ways to enhance immunity, balance gut health or support iron levels, lactoferrin may be a valuable addition to your routine.