General

• What is Colostrum?
  Colostrum is the first milk produced by all mammals after they have given birth. It is designed by nature to provide life sustaining immune and growth factors that support health, nourishment and protection of the newborn.
• Why is Colostrum necessary?
  The main function of colostrum is to passively transfer immunity from the mother to the newborn. The mother has been exposed to a variety of pathogens in her lifetime and has produced immune factors in response. In higher order mammals like humans and apes this occurs during the last trimester of pregnancy through the placenta. However In lower order mammals like cows, horses, pigs and sheep, placental transfer does not occur. Instead the newborn are passively immunised immediately after birth through colostrum. We when take bovine colostrum supplements as adults the function of colostrum changes. Instead of inferring immunity the unique components of colostrum heal and modify the gastro-intestinal tract so we are healthy from the Inside Out!
• How safe is colostrum?
  Colostrum is a natural food that has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. Research has shown that bovine colostrum collected and manufactured using approved processes is a safe and effective health supplement.100 C%strum is manufactured using such processes, ensuring the colostrum is fit for human consumption.
• How does bovine colostrum benefit humans?
  There are four excellent reasons why bovine Colostrum is a great choice for human supplementation.
  
  The molecular structure of bovine colostrum is very similar to that found from humans, which means it will work effectively in both species.
  
  Bovine colostrum contains greater levels of some factors compared with human Colostrum. For example, the important immunoglobulin, IgG, which is needed to bind pathogens, only makes up 2% of human colostrum, while in bovine colostrum; this IgG is available at a concentration of around 20%.
  
  The quality of New Zealand bovine colostrum is very carefully managed. Functional Nutraceuticals Pure NZ Colostrum is manufactured using modern technology that New Zealand is world famous for. This colostrum is processed and packaged at a low temperature which ensures the integrity and activity is maintained.
  
  Bovine colostrum contains special compounds called glycoproteins and trypsin inhibitors. These compounds prevent the digestive juices in the human stomach from destroying the immune and growth factors in Colostrum, ensuring effectiveness.
• Does bovine colostrum have any side effects?
  Colostrum is a high-protein, low fat and reduced lactose dairy product. If you can drink milk without any problem then you can probably take colostrum. Some individuals may experience a mild gastrointestinal distress or a bloated feeling, which can be avoided by lowering the dose. If this reaction continues however then it is best if the colostrum treatment discontinues. Colostrum naturally contains low levels of lactose and during processing of Pure NZ Colostrum these are reduced further. As a result lactose-intolerant individuals generally experience no problems and some even report that colostrum helps with their condition.
• What is the recommended dosage and when should I take it?
  The recommended dose of Pure NZ Colostrum Capsules and Tablets for adults is 2 capsules, twice daily, on an empty stomach. For children half this dose is sufficient. The recommended dose of Pure NZ Colostrum powder is 1 teaspoon twice daily, followed by water. 1/2 tsp Colostrum is recommended for children. Pure NZ Colostrum has a cumulative effect, which means that it should be taken for a minimum period of two to three weeks. If discontinued, the effect will gradually decrease, so a dosage of 4 capsules a day should be maintained. It is important to note that children’s bodies naturally produce adequate amounts of immune and growth factors into adolescence. As a result, children do not need to use colostrum continuously, but should reserve it for help in treating the occasional illness. Due to the growth factors in colostrum some people have reported it has a stimulant effect, so to stay on the safe side especially if sleep disorders are an issue, it is best to take colostrum first thing in the morning (30 minutes before food) and in the afternoon.
• Are the Immunoglobulins still active after they have passed through the stomach?
  Bovine colostrum contains special compounds called glycoproteins and trypsin inhibitors that prevent the digestive juices in the human stomach from destroying the immune and growth factors in the colostrum.
• Is colostrum safe to take during pregnancy / nursing?
  Colostrum is perfectly safe to take when pregnant or nursing, but like with all other supplements, over the counter medications and prescription drugs, it is advised to consult with your physician first.
• Can I take colostrum with other supplements or medications?
  During to the healing effect colostrum has on the digestive tract, all substances taken simultaneously, including natural and conventional medicines will probably be absorbed better by the body. Colostrum has shown no drug interactions thus far, but you may find that other supplements have a more pronounced effect especially if intended for the GI tract. It is always recommended you consult a physician before starting colostrum or any other supplement.
• Do the Calves suffer if colostrum is collected from their mothers?
  This is a common question that many people ask. In New Zealand the first few milkings are for the calves so they can take in all important immune and growth factors needed for healthy growth and development When a calf is born its digestive tract is not completely developed and it has “holes” in its intestinal wall. Colostrum is made up of large molecules that are only able to pass into the circulation of the calf due to these holes. However over a period of about 24 hours, the growth factors in the colostrum cause these gaps to close tightly and after this time no more colostrum can enter. At this point the value of colostrum for the calf has decreased significantly and colostrum collection begins. Cows produce significantly more colostrum than is required for the calf so there is plenty available for collection.
• What is the process of Agglomeration and what are the benefits?
  Pure NZ Colostrum is available in straight powdered form, which is agglomerated. Agglomeration is an extra step during the gentle spray-drying process. The process causes the particles to clump together and form a loosely packed molecule, which increases the dissolving ability of the powder. This is because water is attracted into the pores of the agglomerated molecule which improves its capability to dissolve.
• What is the difference between Pure NZ Colostrum capsules, tablets and powder
  There is little difference between Pure NZ Colostrum capsules, tablets and powder as they all contain high quality New Zealand colostrum. We make our products in different formats because of individual preferences. Children often find it difficult to swallow capsules and favour the flavoured tablets.
• How does Colostrum work in Nature?
  Colostrum is a natural mixture of growth and immune factors that assist in the development and wellbeing of the newborn. It is also beneficial to take as an adult because gradually, over time, less growth and immune factors are produced by the body to ward off disease and heal damaged tissue. Colostrum can improve a variety of gastrointestinal tract (GI) disorders as it helps to heal, repair and modify the GI environment. Colostrum is a 100% natural source of growth and immune factors and an effective supplement for general health and well being.
• Who can take colostrum?
  Perhaps the question should be “who can’t take Colostrum”. Adults, children and infants can all benefit from Colostrum. The ideal Colostrum for new-borns is that which they would receive from their own mother, followed by breast milk. Although few allergic reactions are reported, it is always recommended to consult with your physician before you start taking colostrum or any drug, herb or nutritional supplements.