Health

Key Takeaway

High-dose Colostrum Bovinum supplementation may enhance local immune defense in endurance athletes by increasing salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels after exercise.

Summary

- Bovine colostrum (COL) is recognized as a strong natural immune stimulant, potentially beneficial for athletes under heavy training.

- The study involved 28 endurance-trained male athletes, average age 31.1 years, who participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial.

- Athletes supplemented with 25 g of COL per day for 12 weeks and were assessed on immunological, hematological, and biochemical markers.

- Results indicated:

- A significant increase in post-exercise salivary SIgA levels compared to resting levels, suggesting enhanced local immune response.

- No meaningful changes in blood immunoglobulin levels (IgA, IgE, IgD, IgG, IgM) due to COL supplementation.

- A noted decrease in hematocrit during recovery after supplementation.

- The findings suggest that 12-week COL supplementation can positively influence immune response post-exercise, although further research is necessary to understand its mechanisms and effects on blood parameters.

- Keywords related to the study include ergogenic support, immunity, and sports nutrition.