Lactoferrin vs colostrum—you’ve probably seen both pop up in conversations around gut health, immune support, or healing the body from the inside out. They come from the same source, but work in slightly different ways.

Both have some serious potential when it comes to restoring balance, especially if you’re dealing with leaky gut, fatigue, or frequent colds. Curious which one might be better for you? Let’s break it down and help you decide what your body actually needs.

The Gut-Immune Connection: What You Should Know

Over 70% of your immune system lives in your gut. That’s a big deal when you think about how often gut health gets overlooked. This isn’t just about digestion—it’s about how your body fights, heals, and stays resilient. There’s also the gut-brain connection to consider, which explains why mood, immunity, and digestion are so tightly woven together.

Your Gut Barrier and Microbiome Work as Frontline Defenders

A healthy gut lining acts like a filter—letting nutrients through, keeping invaders out. Your microbiome (the trillions of bacteria that live in your gut) plays an equally important role by training your immune system to respond calmly and appropriately.

  • When the gut lining becomes “leaky,” toxins and bacteria can slip into circulation, triggering inflammation.
  • A diverse, balanced microbiome supports immune tolerance and reduces the risk of overreactive immune responses.
  • Chronic stress, processed foods, antibiotics, and poor sleep can all disrupt this system.

True immune strength starts with protecting this inner ecosystem. When the gut is inflamed or imbalanced, the immune system often struggles to regulate itself—leading to fatigue, food sensitivities, recurring infections, or even autoimmune flares.

Building long-term immunity starts with the gut. It always has.

Lactoferrin and Colostrum: Are They Worth the Hype?

If you’ve been hearing about lactoferrin vs colostrum and wondering what all the buzz is about, you’re in the right place. These two natural compounds pack serious support for gut health, immune function, and feeling more like yourself again.

Let’s Get to Know Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is a multitasking protein naturally found in milk, and also produced by your body’s immune cells. It has a strong affinity for iron, which helps limit the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

It also:

  • Helps defend your gut lining
  • Supports immune balance and inflammation regulation
  • Plays a role in iron metabolism and energy

Some studies suggest it may help ease symptoms of IBS, strengthen the gut barrier, and support your body during times of immune stress.

What Makes Colostrum So Special

Colostrum is the very first milk produced after birth. It’s thick, golden, and loaded with compounds that nourish, protect, and help rebuild. Though it’s made for babies, it turns out colostrum may be helpful for adults too—especially when the gut needs healing.

It contains:

  • Immunoglobulins (especially IgG), which help neutralize pathogens
  • Growth factors (like IGF-1) that support tissue repair
  • Lactoferrin, plus peptides that help regulate the immune system

Many people use it to support a leaky gut, recover from GI issues, or help boost immunity during times of stress or illness.

So, Which One’s Better?

Truthfully, it depends on what your body needs. Lactoferrin is a focused tool for gut repair and immune modulation. Colostrum is more of an all-around nourishing blend. Some people do well with both—especially during times of gut dysfunction, burnout, or post-antibiotic recovery. 

Let’s keep it simple and look at the basics side by side:

Lactoferrin

  • A single protein that naturally occurs in milk and immune cells
  • Helps your body absorb and regulate iron (which also slows bad bacterial growth)
  • Known for strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
  • Supports gut lining integrity and balances the immune system
  • Often recommended for those with autoimmunity, inflammation, or chronic infections
  • Tends to be well-tolerated, even by people with dairy sensitivity

Colostrum

  • The first milk produced after childbirth—nutrient-rich and packed with immune support
  • Contains lactoferrin, immunoglobulins (especially IgG), and growth factors
  • Helps repair the gut lining and restore microbiome balance
  • May benefit those with IBS, leaky gut, frequent infections, or post-antibiotic recovery
  • Can be more reactive for those with true dairy allergies

Both of these have unique strengths, and sometimes, they’re used together depending on your needs. If you’re feeling unsure, this is where a practitioner can help—especially when gut and immune health get complicated. 

It’s always best to check with your practitioner to find what’s right for you.

The hol+ Way: Building Resilient Immunity from Within

When your immune system feels off—whether you’re constantly catching colds, dealing with gut issues, or navigating autoimmune symptoms—it’s often a sign that something deeper needs attention. At hol+, we take the time to understand your full story. We don’t jump to quick fixes. Instead, we look at how everything in your body is connected, especially the powerful link between your gut and immune system.

Our care team is made up of board-certified practitioners, nutritionists, and integrative therapists who create personalized plans based on real data and your unique needs. Here’s how we help bring your immune system back into balance:

We start by uncovering what’s happening beneath the surface.

  • Functional gut testing to check for inflammation, leaky gut, harmful microbes, or imbalances in your microbiome.
  • Immune marker assessments to understand how your system is responding—and where it might be over- or underactive.

We create a food and supplement plan tailored to your biology.

  • Nutritional counseling to build a healing diet that supports both digestion and immunity.
  • Targeted supplement guidance, including smart use of immune helpers like lactoferrin or colostrum (always based on your labs and tolerance).
  • Herbal and enzyme support to calm inflammation and strengthen the gut lining.

We support your nervous system, too.

  • Mind-body therapies like acupuncture, breathwork, and gentle movement to help regulate stress—a known trigger for immune dysregulation.
  • Lifestyle shifts to restore daily rhythms, sleep quality, and emotional resilience.

At hol+, we see immune health as whole-body health. Whether your goal is to feel stronger, get to the root of your gut symptoms, or protect yourself through seasonal changes, we’re here to guide you step by step, with care that feels both scientific and deeply human.

Your Immune Health Plan Starts Here

When comparing lactoferrin vs colostrum, the real takeaway is that both can offer powerful immune and gut support—but they work a little differently. Colostrum brings a whole spectrum of nutrients, while lactoferrin delivers targeted action, especially in inflammation and infection. What matters most is choosing based on your unique needs, sensitivities, and underlying imbalances.

At hol+, we help you cut through the confusion and build a plan that actually works—for your immune system, digestion, and energy. Our team blends clinical testing, compassionate care, and evidence-based therapies. If you’re ready to feel better from the inside out, schedule a consultation with us today. Let’s find your root cause and start healing together.

FAQs

What’s the main difference between lactoferrin vs colostrum?

Lactoferrin is a single protein with strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Colostrum is the first milk made after birth, rich in immune factors like IgG, growth factors, and peptides.

Is one better than the other for gut health?

It depends. Lactoferrin is great for calming inflammation and supporting the gut lining. Colostrum can help restore balance in the microbiome and repair leaky gut. Sometimes, they’re used together.

Can I take both lactoferrin and colostrum?

Yes, many people use both under practitioner guidance. They have different but complementary benefits, especially if you’re addressing both gut and immune concerns.

Who should avoid colostrum?

Anyone with a true dairy allergy may want to avoid it. For those who are dairy-sensitive, purified lactoferrin is often better tolerated.

Does hol+ help people with both digestive and immune symptoms?

Yes—we often see how closely the two are connected. We create a plan that looks at your whole system, not just one part.

Can I work with hol+ virtually or do I have to come in person?

We offer both! Many of our clients work with us through virtual consults, and we make sure your care is still personal and hands-on.