Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin – Functions, Benefits and Importance for Health

Lactoferrin is a multifunctional protein from the transferrin family and possesses a strong affinity for binding iron. It is found primarily in secretory fluids such as breast milk, saliva, tear fluid and also in immune cells such as neutrophils. Therefore, lactoferrin is also an integral component of mammalian milk, which includes cow and human breast milk.

Lactoferrin plays a central role in iron metabolism and in immunological processes. As an iron-binding protein, it can inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms that require iron for their reproduction (Drago-Serrano et al., 2012).

Furthermore, lactoferrin promotes the absorption of iron in the intestine and acts as an immunomodulator by regulating inflammatory reactions and influencing the activity of immune cells (Zhao et al., 2022).

These are the benefits of lactoferrin

Lactoferrin has diverse biological significance:

1. Supports the immune system: Lactoferrin modulates immune function by promoting the activity of immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells. It helps the body ward off infections and regulate the balance of the immune system (Berthon et al., 2022).

2. Optimised iron absorption: Lactoferrin binds iron and supports absorption in the intestine. This ability makes it an ideal supplement for people who suffer from iron deficiency (Md et al., 2024; Zhao et al., 2022).

3. Antimicrobial effect: Lactoferrin shows strong activity against bacteria and viruses. It deprives harmful microorganisms of the iron necessary for their growth and can also bind directly to their surfaces, thus preventing cell invasion (Drago-Serrano et al., 2012)​.

4. Antioxidative properties: Lactoferrin reduces oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals (Abad et al., 2023; Belizi et al., 1999).

Lactoferrin and its effect on the gut flora

Lactoferrin plays a central role in maintaining a healthy gut flora. This iron-binding protein can support the growth of beneficial bacteria and simultaneously inhibit unwanted germs, thereby promoting the microbial balance in the intestine. Studies show that lactoferrin has an anti-inflammatory effect, strengthens the barrier function of the intestinal mucosa and positively influences the balance of the gut microbiome (Conesa et al., 2023; Sherman et al., 2016).

A balanced gut flora contributes significantly to digestion, immune defence and general health – and lactoferrin is a decisive supporter in this process.

What distinguishes our lactoferrin?

Our product uses the branded raw material Proferrin® by INGREDIA, which impresses with its purity and natural extraction method. Here are the key features at a glance:

• 300 mg highly pure lactoferrin with >95 % Lf content per capsule for optimal results

• Manufactured in France under strict quality controls to preserve the biological activity of lactoferrin

• Maximum bioavailability through gentle extraction at low temperatures, which preserves the native structure

• Only rice starch as a filler – guaranteed without unnecessary additives

• Purity and efficacy: No preservatives, colourings or artificial flavours, but >95 % Lf content

• Vegetarian, as the raw material is gently extracted from cow's milk

• Highly concentrated – 300 mg lactoferrin in one capsule corresponds to approximately one litre of cow's milk