Colostrum for hair growth and repair?
As we age, the effects of time become increasingly evident, not only on our skin and joints but also on our hair.
Could this substance, often referred to as liquid gold, be the secret to healthier, stronger locks?
Read on to learn more about how colostrum may help rejuvenate and promote healthier hair!
Colostrum Explained
Colostrum, the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth, is a nutrient powerhouse!
It contains growth factors, antibodies, and immune-boosting compounds that can benefit overall health, including hair health.
Recently, colostrum supplements have become popular due to its potential health benefits.
Benefits of Colostrum
Colostrum has demonstrated a number of general health benefits, including:
- Immunity: Contains antibodies and other immune-boosting compounds that may help protect against infection and disease.
- Gut health: May improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and strengthening the gut lining.
- Reduced Inflammation: Includes anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce inflammation, a contributor to chronic disease.
- Muscle growth and repair: Contains growth factors that can help to promote muscle growth and repair.
- Athletic performance: May improve athletic performance by increasing endurance and reducing recovery time.
- Skin health: Promotes skin elasticity, protects the skin from damage, and promotes wound healing.
You can learn more about colostrum’s benefits for skin in this Age-Defying Dietitian blog post “Unveiling the Sensational Skin Benefits of Colostrum“.
Colostrum Benefits for Hair
Colostrum supplements may offer a number of potential benefits for hair, including:
- Promoting hair growth: Colostrum contains growth factors that can stimulate hair follicle growth.
- Reducing hair loss: Colostrum may help to reduce hair loss by reducing inflammation and protecting the scalp from damage.
- Improving hair quality: Colostrum can help to improve hair quality by making it stronger, shinier, and more manageable.
Evidence for Colostrum
There is some scientific evidence to support the use of colostrum supplements for hair health.
For example, a 2022 study found that colostrum supplements were effective in promoting hair growth in people with alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss.
However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of colostrum supplements for hair health.
Colostrum Supplements
Bovine colostrum is collected from cows and pasteurized for safety and quality. It is then dried into pills or powders to create supplements.
Manufacturers say there is extra colostrum in the mother’s first milk, leaving plenty for the baby calf.
Colostrum supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, powders, and liquids.
Bovine colostrum is nutrient-dense just like human colostrum. It is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammation agents, and growth-promoting factors.
Choosing the Best Colostrum Supplement
When choosing a colostrum supplement, look for the following:
- Colostrum from the first milking: The highest quality colostrum comes from the first milking after the baby calf.
- Grass-fed and pasture-raised cows: Colostrum from grass-fed and pasture-raised cows is more nutrient-rich.
- Third-party testing seals: Look for supplements that have been tested by an independent third party, such as NSF or USP, to ensure quality and safety.
- cGMP facilities: Make sure your supplement is manufactured in a cGMP facility to meet quality standards.
Talk to your healthcare provider before adding colostrum, or any other dietary supplement, to your wellness routine.
Side Effects
Colostrum supplements are generally safe for most people. However, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.
If you experience any side effects, stop taking the supplement and contact your healthcare provider.
How to Take Colostrum Supplements for Hair
The recommended dosage for colostrum supplements for hair health varies depending on the product. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
Add powdered supplements to any cold liquid. You can take powdered and pill supplements with or without food.
Colostrum Products
Below are colostrum supplements that meet industry standards:
My Personal Experience
I recently started taking ARMRA Colostrum™ Immune Revival in the stick packs to support my transition from brunette to gray. This is going to be a long process, close to a year or more.
My goal is to help my hair grow faster, and perhaps make it healthier from decades of coloring.
I mix the Armra powder with cold water and take this one time per day.
Armra recommends 3-4 servings per day, however, I plan to try one time per day due to the cost. Armra will run you about $1 per serving.
My Expert Opinion on Colostrum for Hair
Colostrum supplements may offer a number of potential benefits for hair health, including promoting hair growth, reducing hair loss, and improving hair quality.
However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of colostrum supplements for hair health.
If you are considering taking colostrum supplements for hair health, talk to your doctor first.
They can help you determine if it is right for you and can advise you on the appropriate dosage.
Here’s to healthier, happier hair!
Hungry for More?
Interested in more information on how your diet can improve your appearance?
Check out the Skin & Beauty Nutrition section of the blog for more!
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Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management. She has 20+ years of nutrition experience working in a variety of healthcare settings. Her passion is to provide evidence-based nutrition information that supports vitality and longevity!