Lactoferrin

About Lactoferrin

A naturally occurring iron-binding protein found in milk and colostrum. Best studied for improving iron absorption with fewer side effects than traditional iron supplements, and for supporting immune and gut health. Standard lactoferrin (apolactoferrin) is largely degraded by stomach acid, so delivery form is critical: enteric-coated capsules (e.g. DRcaps) protect it through the stomach and deliver ~10× higher absorption than standard capsules. Liposomal forms also improve uptake via lipid encapsulation. Bioferrin is a patented bovine lactoferrin partially saturated with iron, offering high peptide integrity and gentle iron utilization without typical GI side effects. Avoid if allergic to cow's milk protein. No established RDA/UL.

What Lactoferrin supports

• 🩸Supports iron absorption with fewer GI side effects than ferrous sulfate (multiple meta-analyses)
• 🛡️Modulates immune function via macrophage, neutrophil, and NK cell activation
• 🍏Prebiotic effects promoting Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus growth

How much Lactoferrin to take

Clinical studies typically use 100–600 mg of Lactoferrin. 100–300 mg/day for general immune/gut support. 250–600 mg/day for iron deficiency support. Enteric-coated or liposomal forms provide ~10× better absorption than standard capsules.

Effective range

100–600 mg

Forms of Lactoferrin compared

• Enteric-coated lactoferrinPremium
  Enteric coating protects lactoferrin from stomach acid degradation.
• Liposomal lactoferrinPremium
  Phospholipid-encapsulated; survives the gut intact for systemic delivery.
• Delayed-release lactoferrinPremium
  DRcaps capsule delays release until the small intestine.
• Recombinant human lactoferrinStandard
  Human-sequence lactoferrin from yeast; identity-matched but no gastric protection.
• Apolactoferrin (freeze-dried)Standard
  Iron-free freeze-dried lactoferrin; bioactive but partially degraded by stomach acid.
• Bovine lactoferrinStandard
  Standard bovine source; no gastric protection — efficacy depends on dose.
• Lactoferrin powder (uncoated)Budget
  Uncoated powder — partially degraded by stomach acid before absorption.
• ColostrumBudget
  Variable lactoferrin content (1–5%); not standardized for active fraction.

Clinical evidence

Moderate clinical evidence. Multiple meta-analyses support iron absorption benefits with fewer side effects than iron supplements