Lactoferrin in food, the impact on digestive health

Lactoferrin is a bioactive protein found in the human body. It can be found in the milk of mammals, or in external secretions such as saliva or tears. Thanks to its many properties, lactoferrin is now used in the composition of food products in France and worldwide.

How is lactoferrin used in food?

Today, lactoferrin is used as a supplement in the manufacture of many types of food and nutrition products. In particular, it can be found in:

• Dairy products for children and adults,
• Infant milk,
• Dietary supplements.

What are the intestinal health benefits of lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin is renowned for its ability to bind iron, but it also has other benefits. It contributes, for example, to boosting a person's immune system and preserving digestive health.

Lactoferrin in the diet: a protein to strengthen your gut bacteria

Studies show that lactoferrin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers. It can be administered in the form of dietary supplements. Among other things, it can help heal gastroenteritis and reduce the frequency and duration of symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.). The advantage of lactoferrin is that it can be administered to both adults and children.

Lactoferrin, a supplement similar to breast milk

Lactoferrin also plays a key role in intestinal maturation in infants. As its configuration is very similar to that of maternal milk, it provides newborn babies with the same benefits they need to develop. It modulates their gut bacteria by boosting the concentration of bifidobacteria and reducing the presence of Clostridium[1]. What's more, one of the advantages of lactoferrin is that it is well tolerated by infants and easy to administer.

Interested in adding lactoferrin to your food products? Armor Protéines has designed Vitalarmor® Lactoferrin and Vitalarmor® Lactoferrin organic, a quality lactoferrin that meets strict specifications for use in nutrition.

[1] Tomita, 2009