Best colostrum powders: Reviewed and Tested 2024

Colostrum is packed with essential nutrients and antibodies that support bodily functions. Therefore, finding the best colostrum powder can significantly enhance your overall health, especially when it comes to boosting immunity and improving gut health.  In this article, Zextrasure will help you narrow down the best colostrum powder for your specific needs.

1. What is colostrum powder?

Colostrum supplements are derived from the first milk produced by mammals, particularly cows (bovine colostrum) or goats, shortly after giving birth. After collection, it undergoes processing, pasteurization, and drying into capsules or powders, which can be mixed with liquids.

These supplements are commonly marketed for benefits like immune support and gut health. Bovine colostrum, in particular, is known for its lower lactose content, which may make it a suitable option for people who are lactose intolerant.

Colostrum powder is a supplement made from the first milk

2. Benefits of colostrum powder

Colostrum is rich in bioactive compounds like antimicrobial agents, growth factors, and immunoglobulins that help protect infants from infection and support digestive health. Bovine and goat colostrum share a similar nutrient profile and offer similar benefits for adults.

Though research is still developing, colostrum supplements show promise for enhancing immune function, promoting tissue repair, and supporting gut health.

Immune health

Bovine colostrum, especially IgG, helps fight infections by neutralizing harmful microbes. A 2022 study suggests it can reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) when taken in larger doses.

Gut health

Colostrum may reduce gut inflammation, strengthen the gut lining, and prevent permeability, particularly in athletes. It may also help alleviate symptoms of digestive diseases and infectious diarrhea, although more research is needed.

Athletic performance

Colostrum’s growth factors may support muscle growth and recovery, while its immunoglobulins help boost immunity and reduce the risk of infections common in athletes.

3. Top 5 best colostrum powder

Our picks for the best colostrum supplement:

• Best for gut health: Nutricost Colostrum
• Best for adults: ARMRA Colostrum
• Best bovine: Elm & Rye Colostrum
• Best for hair growth: Bloom Colostrum and Collagen Peptides
• Best goat: Mt. Capra Goat Milk Colostrum

Colostrum best brand for gut health: Nutricost Colostrum

Nutricost Colostrum is one of the best colostrum powders

Nutricost Colostrum Powder is a cost-effective supplement containing at least 30% IgG antibodies, so it is effective for gut health. However, it’s not pure colostrum, as it includes milk protein concentrate, non-fat dry milk, and small amounts of MCTs and sunflower lecithin.

At only $0.79 per serving, it’s the most affordable option but may not be ideal for those seeking an additive-free product, like ARMRA. Avoid mixing with hot liquid ̣(above 140°F), because heat can degrade colostrum’s proteins.

Pros:

• Gluten-free
• Minimum 30% IgG antibodies
• Affordable
• Third-party tested

Cons:

• No flavor options
• Limited information about the product’s origin and the methods used for sterilization.
• Contains additives and fillers

Best quality colostrum for adults: ARMRA Colostrum

Which colostrum is the best? ARMRA Colostrum is one of the best choices for adults

ARMRA Immune Revival Colostrum is sourced from grass-fed cows on U.S. family farms and uses unique technology for nutrient preservation and absorption. It is considered one of the best colostrum powders because it is glyphosate-free, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced.

Priced at $0.92 per serving, costs can increase if you follow the recommendation to gradually use up to three scoops daily. ARMRA is ideal for people searching for a pure, grass-fed colostrum supplement. The serving size is one small scoop, mixed into cool liquid or taken directly.

Pros:

• Certified for keto diets, soy-free
• Third-party tested
• Sourced from grass-fed cattle within 24 hours after delivery
• Three flavor options
• Free from artificial additives, colors, or sweeteners

Cons:

• Uses a proprietary blend, limiting the transparency of specific contents
• Flavored versions are pricier than the plain option

Best bovine colostrum powder: Elm and Rye Colostrum

Elm and Rye Colostrum

Elm & Rye stands out for its commitment to transparency, publishing detailed third-party lab test results for all to review. This unflavored, single-ingredient colostrum supplement is free from fillers, additives, or artificial components, emphasizing purity and simplicity. 

While the quality is exceptional, it has a high price of $70 for 30 servings. However, for people willing to invest in top-notch, pure colostrum, Elm & Rye is the best colostrum powder and offers a clean supplement option.

Pros:

• Third-party tested with lab results
• Made with pure, grass-fed bovine colostrum
• Free of artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers

Cons:

• The full nutrition label is not available
• Contains a lower IgG concentration than some other brands
• Expensive compared to other options on the market.

Best colostrum powder for hair growth: Bloom Colostrum & Collagen Peptides

Bloom Colostrum & Collagen Peptides

Bloom Colostrum & Collagen offers 1,000 mg of bovine colostrum with 40% IgG. As one of the best colostrum powders on the market, it offers a potent combination of nutrients such as probiotics, vitamin B12, and collagen to support skin, hair, and gut health. Although it combines beneficial ingredients, it doesn’t provide much collagen or probiotics as separate supplements.

At $1.20 per serving, it’s on the pricier side. If you want a supplement that combines colostrum with collagen and probiotics for gut health, Bloom Colostrum & Collagen is a solid option.

Pros:

• Contains a minimum of 40% IgG antibodies, offering higher potency than many competing brands.
• Third-party tested for quality and effectiveness.
• Includes multiple ingredients that work synergistically to support hair, skin, and gut health.
• Free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors.

Cons:

• Colostrum is not sourced from grass-fed cows.
• Contains a relatively low amount of collagen and probiotics.
• Lacks transparency regarding the processing methods.

Read more: How to collect colostrum safely and easily for new moms

Best colostrum powder: Mt. Capra Goat Milk Colostrum

Mt. Capra Goat Milk Colostrum

Mt. Capra Goat Colostrum is a top choice for the best colostrum powder which offers pure goat colostrum from grass-fed goats. Known for its high A2 beta-casein content, it may be easier to digest than cow colostrum.

The price of $1.47 per serving is higher than the best colostrum powder options, Mt. Capra Goat Colostrum is ideal for someone sensitive to bovine colostrum. This supplement stands out for its quality and digestibility. If you’re looking for a top-rated goat colostrum powder, Mt. Capra is an excellent option.

Pros:

• Suitable for keto and paleo diets.
• Contains A2 milk, which may be gentler on digestion.
• Made with a single-ingredient formula.
• Processed using low-heat drying to preserve nutrients.
• Free from hormones, antibiotics, and artificial additives.
• Provides 2,900 mg of grass-fed goat milk colostrum per serving.

Cons:

• No third-party testing is available for quality assurance.
• IgG concentration is not specified.
• More expensive compared to other colostrum supplements.

4. Who should avoid the best colostrum powders?

While the best colostrum powders offer many potential benefits, they aren’t suitable for everyone. People with the following conditions or dietary restrictions should avoid them or consult with healthcare professionals before using:

People with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or vegan diets should avoid colostrum powders

• Dairy allergy: Since colostrum comes from milk, individuals with dairy allergies should avoid it.
• Lactose intolerance: Although cow colostrum has less lactose than regular milk, those with lactose intolerance may still need to choose supplements specifically designed for lactose-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan diet: Colostrum is animal-derived, so it is not suitable for vegans.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Due to the lack of research in these populations, it’s recommended to avoid colostrum supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

5. Side effects of colostrum powders

Colostrum powders are generally safe, but mild side effects can occur. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Skin rashes
• Itching

Higher doses may increase the likelihood of these side effects, so starting with a smaller dose is advisable. There is insufficient long-term research on colostrum supplements to determine any potential long-term side effects.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best colostrum powder depends on your specific health needs and preferences. With options ranging from bovine to goat colostrum, it's essential to choose a product that aligns with your goals for immune and gut health. Prioritizing quality and transparency in sourcing can help you make an informed decision.