Calostro y energía: lo que dice la investigación (serie 2/10)

Have you ever heard of colostrum? As explained in Part 1 of this colostrum series, it is the first milk of female mammals. This special first milk is important not only for the development of newborns but is also considered in connection with adults. When surplus colostrum from a cow, i.e. colostrum not needed for the calf, is carefully collected through upcycling, benefits arise for both the mother animal and the calf.

Nothing stands in the way of using this "food of a special kind". Colostrum contains proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and other ingredients that are considered in connection with the topic of energy. In this article, Part 2 of the colostrum series, we examine more closely how colostrum relates to the topic of energy and what research has to say about it.

Before we look more closely at the topic of energy in connection with colostrum, we would first like to explain what it is, how it is composed and which nutrients it contains.

La leche de vaca que consumimos a diario presenta, en comparación con el calostro, algo más espeso y de color dorado, un menor contenido de nutrientes, una consistencia diferente y un color blanco. Esta se denomina leche en los mamíferos o leche materna en las mujeres. El calostro, en cambio, es la primera leche que el recién nacido toma de la madre en los primeros días tras el nacimiento, mientras su Sistema inmunológico aún no está desarrollado. En el caso del ternero, este nace sin un Sistema inmunológico desarrollado y el calostro desempeña para él un papel especialmente importante.

The transition phase from colostrum to mother's milk is subtle. The composition of the milk changes over time to meet the developing needs of the infant.

The composition of colostrum is extremely complex, as it contains a broad range of nutrients and bioactive substances.

Regarding colostrum that humans can consume as a food or dietary supplement, we therefore take a closer look at the ingredients of cow colostrum.

Cow colostrum contains a mixture of proteins, immune factors, growth factors, vitamins, minerals and other bioactive substances. This composition is the reason it is considered in connection with the topic of energy.

An important aspect is the high protein content. Colostrum contains proteins in concentrated form. They play a role in the energy balance of our body.

Proteins are the building blocks of life and are needed for a variety of biological processes in our body, including energy metabolism. Proteins are composed of amino acids, which can also be used for energy production when needed. Colostrum contains essential amino acids, including leucine, isoleucine and valine.

These amino acids belong to the group of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are considered in connection with energy metabolism. BCAAs are also discussed in connection with fat metabolism, muscle mass and recovery after physical exertion. Protein contributes to an increase and maintenance of muscle mass.

Colostrum also contains growth factors, which are considered in connection with tissue renewal. They are also related to cellular metabolism, which plays a role in the body's energy supply.

Otro aspecto es el Sistema inmunológico. El Sistema inmunológico necesita energía para llevar a cabo sus funciones, por lo que la interacción entre la defensa inmunitaria y el metabolismo energético es un tema que se estudia en la investigación. El calostro contiene inmunoglobulinas, anticuerpos y otros factores inmunitarios que se consideran en relación con el Sistema inmunológico.

In addition to the nutrients already mentioned, colostrum also contains a range of vitamins and minerals, including B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D as well as iron, zinc and calcium. These nutrients are involved in numerous metabolic processes. B vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin B6, vitamin C and iron contribute to normal energy metabolism, and vitamin C, iron and B vitamins contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Inflammatory processes are also discussed in connection with the topic of energy. In research, chronic inflammation is associated with exhaustion. Colostrum contains substances such as proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs), which are considered in connection with inflammatory processes.

A 2016 study in the "Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition" examined the effects of colostrum on the performance of endurance athletes. Aerobic performance was considered. If you are not sure what aerobic capacity means, we are happy to explain: Aerobic capacity, also referred to as aerobic endurance or aerobic fitness, refers to the body's ability to use oxygen efficiently to produce energy for prolonged physical activity. Aerobic activities are those that can be carried out over a longer period at moderate intensity without quickly leading to a feeling of exhaustion.

A study in "Frontiers in Physiology" examined colostrum in connection with recovery after intensive training. Whether and to what extent effects can be derived from these results continues to be examined in research.

The exact composition of colostrum can vary depending on the cow. The ingredients are important not only for newborns but are also considered in connection with the adult human.

Colostrum contains proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals that are considered in connection with the topic of energy. However, it is important that, in addition to taking colostrum, you generally maintain healthy lifestyle habits and consider colostrum as part of a comprehensive approach to nutrition and well-being.

At this point we would also like to mention that you should in principle only rely on high-quality colostrum from trustworthy sources. Dairy farmers must prioritize the welfare of the calves before surplus colostrum can be skimmed off for human consumption. Moreover, the quality and purity of colostrum can vary from provider to provider.

Please note that, it is important to consult a specialist before taking colostrum or other dietary supplements, as well as when changing dietary habits.

The information in this blog is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.