Benefits and Side Effects of Lactoferrin Supplements

Table of Contents
View All
Table of Contents

Lactoferrin supplements are sometimes taken for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

In the body, lactoferrin is a protein found naturally in the milk of humans, cows, and other mammals. It is also found in other bodily fluids like saliva, tears, mucus, and bile. Lactoferrin has antiviral and antibacterial properties and helps the body transport and absorb iron.

Babies can get lactoferrin from colostrum, the nutrient-dense breast milk mothers release soon after childbirth. Children and adults can get it from certain foods.

Though the lactoferrin used in supplements is typically sourced from genetically modified rice, it can also come from cow's milk.

This article will discuss the purported benefits of lactoferrin supplements, side effects, precautions, interactions, and dosage.

Supplement Facts

● Active Ingredient(s): Lactoferrin

● Alternate Name(s): Apolactoferrin, bovine lactoferrin, lactotransferrin

● Legal Status: Legal and available over the counter in the United States

● Suggested Dose: There is not enough evidence to recommend a standard dose. Clinical studies have used doses ranging from 100 milligrams to 450 milligrams per day.

● Safety Considerations: There are few side effects associated with lactoferrin. Taking too much lactoferrin may result in stomach upset, skin rash, and loss of appetite.

Benefits of Lactoferrin

Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.

Lactoferrin has a wide range of purported uses. As a supplement, it is thought to have antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Researchers are also starting to look at lactoferrin’s possible role in immunity with COVID-19 in mind.

Many believe that lactoferrin can support the immune system. However, most of the present research has been conducted in a lab rather than on humans and more evidence is needed in most cases.

The following is a look at available research on the purported uses of lactoferrin.

Bacterial Infections

It has been suggested that lactoferrin protects the body from bacteria through its binding action to iron. This binding action does not allow bacteria to use iron to transport itself through the body.

Though results are mixed, lactoferrin has been studied for its use in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, a type of bacterial infection known to cause stomach ulcers. In one lab study, lactoferrin from cows was found to inhibit the growth of H. pylori. It also increased the strength of medications commonly used to treat the infection. However, this study was performed in vitro (in a test tube in a lab) and not in humans.

Other lab studies using lactoferrin for bacterial infections have found similar results, but human trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Viral Infections

Research has investigated lactoferrin's protective effects against viral infections, like the common cold, flu, herpes, and gastroenteritis. It's thought to do this by inhibiting viruses from attaching to cells and replicating. However, the research was based on studying animal and human cells in a laboratory, not in human participants.

There's also some evidence that lactoferrin may inhibit hepatitis C infection. Several studies have investigated the relationship.

In one study, researchers discovered that lactoferrin helped increase levels of interleukin-18, a protein found to play a key role in fighting off hepatitis C. The year-long study involved 63 people with the virus, a small sample size. However, it should be noted that results regarding lactoferrin's role in hepatitis C prevention have been mixed.

Of particular interest is the potential ability of lactoferrin to prevent and treat COVID-19. Preliminary research on the subject has led researchers to believe lactoferrin could help manage both asymptomatic and mild-to-moderate COVID-19. However, the sample size in the study was small (92 people). Larger, longer-term studies are needed before recommending lactoferrin's use.

Fungal Infections

Lactoferrin is also thought to have anti-fungal activity.

Various animal studies have looked at whether lactoferrin may help treat fungal infections, including yeast infections, or candida. In one such study, yeast-infected mice treated with lactoferrin had less severe infections than mice not given lactoferrin.

More human trials are needed regarding lactoferrin's potential role in treating bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

Acne

In one study, participants consumed either fermented milk with 200 milligrams (mg) of lactoferrin or fermented milk alone every day for 12 weeks. At the end of the treatment period, those given the lactoferrin-supplemented milk were found to have fewer acne lesions and less sebum (oil) compared to those who took the placebo.

Another small study found similar results. Adolescent participants with acne vulgaris took chewable lactoferrin supplements for eight weeks. By the end of the study, they had reduced acne lesions and inflammation. The supplements were also well-tolerated. However, the study did not include a control (comparison) group; therefore, the results are not as reliable as studies with a control group study.

Osteoporosis

Although research on the bone-building benefits of lactoferrin is limited, preliminary research suggests that lactoferrin may aid in preventing osteoporosis.

In lab and mouse studies, lactoferrin has been found to stimulate osteoblasts, or the cells needed to build bones. It has also been found to alleviate osteoporosis symptoms, possibly through cell signaling. However, researchers aren't exactly sure how lactoferrin works to improve osteoporosis and if these benefits would translate to humans.

In another study, lactoferrin helped strengthen and preserve bones in mice whose ovaries had been removed. Removing the ovaries is said to control hormonal changes. These results led researchers to believe that lactoferrin could be useful in preventing and treating bone loss that occurs due to estrogen loss, a common occurrence in menopausal women. However, studies involving humans are lacking.

As with most purported uses of lactoferrin, more human trials are required regarding osteoporosis. While we can learn from animal and lab studies, results should be duplicated in humans to confirm the proposed benefits.

Iron Regulation

Several studies have looked at the effects of lactoferrin on iron metabolism.

A systematic review and meta-analysis compared treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) with lactoferrin supplementation versus the traditional treatment with ferrous sulfate supplementation. The study authors concluded lactoferrin supplementation provided better improvement in blood iron parameters (serum iron and ferritin) compared to ferrous sulfate. 

A review of 11 studies related to IDA in children found that compared to iron-only or placebo supplementation, markers of IDA (serum ferritin and hemoglobin) improved in the groups treated with lactoferrin or a combination of lactoferrin and elemental iron. The study authors also noted there was a significant decrease in constipation (a common side effect of iron supplementation) in the two lactoferrin-treated groups.

Cancer

It is thought that the antioxidant properties of lactoferrin may explain its potential anti-cancer benefits. Lactoferrin supplementation has shown protective effects against cancers of the colon, stomach, liver, and pancreas. However, research is very preliminary, and more well-designed studies are needed.

Age-Related Disease

It is thought that lactoferrin may slow aging because of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. In theory, these properties should protect against or slow cellular changes and dysfunction associated with age-related diseases, such as osteoporosis, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, and cancers.

Although lactoferrin holds much promise for slowing the effects of aging, more research is needed.

Other Uses

Other purported, but less-researched uses for lactoferrin include:

More research is needed to support these claims. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are interested in using lactoferrin for these and other uses.

Milk and lactoferrin capsules

Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak

Side Effects of Lactoferrin Supplemets

Lactoferrin is considered safe in amounts typically found in food. In fact, lactoferrin is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Regardless, side effects are possible when using lactoferrin supplements.

Common Side Effects

Many studies on lactoferrin have reported no apparent side effects from taking it. However, mild, common side effects can occur and are more likely when lactoferrin is taken in excessive doses.

Some study participants taking lactoferrin reported:

Severe Side Effects

Severe side effects have not been reported when taking lactoferrin. However, it may be possible to be allergic to lactoferrin.

A study performed on mice found that administering lactoferrin into the blood or mucosal tissues could produce allergens. In the study, an allergic reaction causing airways to become inflamed was observed in the mice.

However, the same results have not been seen in humans. Stop using lactoferrin and seek immediate medical attention if you have an allergic reaction.

Precautions

There are few documented precautions when it comes to lactoferrin. Lactoferrin is generally recognized as safe, especially when consumed in recommended amounts.

It appears to be a safe supplement for many sensitive groups, like children and people who are pregnant.

Still, it's important to follow directions when using lactoferrin and not take more than directed. Taking more lactoferrin than recommended could result in side effects.

People following a vegan diet should check the supplement packaging to ensure the product will fit their diet. Capsule coatings are not always vegan.

Dosage: How Much Lactoferrin Should I Take?

Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage is appropriate for your individual needs.

Widely available for purchase online, lactoferrin supplements are primarily sold in capsule form. You can also buy lactoferrin in some natural foods stores, drugstores, and stores specializing in dietary supplements.

There is no standard dose for lactoferrin. This means dosage may depend on age, health conditions, and gender.

According to one review, in various clinical trials, lactoferrin has been used in doses of 100 mg to 4,500 mg per day. These doses did not result in any known toxicities.

Talk with your healthcare provider about finding the proper lactoferrin dose for your specific needs.

Similar Supplements

Supplements that have similar purported benefits as lactoferrin include:

  • Garlic: Various studies have found that garlic extract contains antibiotic properties.
  • Vitamin D: The sunshine vitamin has more recently been found to potentially contain antiviral properties.
  • Oregano oil: In lab studies, oregano oil has shown antifungal activity and potential usefulness in treating yeast infections.
  • Vitamin A: Topical vitamin A (retinol) has long been touted as a useful supplement for acne.
  • Boron: A trace element, some evidence suggests that boron can play a role in improving bone health, an important part of osteoporosis prevention.

Your healthcare provider can help you navigate various supplements, as it's sometimes recommended to take just one at a time for a health issue.

Food Sources of Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is a component of whey protein that is present in the milk of mammals including humans, cows, and goats, among others.

The best sources of lactoferrin include:

  • Milk
  • Buttermilk
  • Kefir


These dairy products made from the milk of cows or goats that contain whey protein will contain smaller amounts of lactoferrin:

  • Swiss cheese
  • Semi-hard cheeses, such as gouda
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Cottage cheese

Lactoferrin will also be present in these dairy products if they're lactose-free.

Breastfeeding infants and toddlers can obtain lactoferrin from colostrum at birth and breast milk.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products (such as the U.S. Pharmacopeia, Consumer Labs, or NSF) and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist. 


Summary

Lactoferrin is a protein found in the milk of mammals like humans and cows. It has been studied for its potential antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties. Some research shows that lactoferrin may also be used for acne, osteoporosis, and other health concerns. Lactoferrin is generally safe, but it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider before using it.

Due to the limited research, it's too soon to recommend lactoferrin supplements as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering using it, talk to your healthcare provider first to weigh the potential risks and benefits and to discuss whether it's appropriate for you.

26 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Kell DB, Heyden EL, Pretorius E. The biology of lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein that can help defend against viruses and bacteria. Front Immunol. 2020;11:1221. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2020.01221

  2. Superti F. Lactoferrin from bovine milk: a protective companion for life. Nutrients. 2020;12(9):2562. doi:10.3390/nu12092562

  3. Ciccaglione AF, Di Giulio M, Di Lodovico S, et al. Bovine lactoferrin enhances the efficacy of levofloxacin-based triple therapy as first-line treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: an in vitro and in vivo studyJ Antimicrob Chemother. 2019;74(4):1069-1077. doi:10.1093/jac/dky510

  4. Wakabayashi H, Oda H, Yamauchi K, Abe F. Lactoferrin for prevention of common viral infectionsJ Infect Chemother. 2014;20(11):666-671. doi:10.1016/j.jiac.2014.08.003

  5. Ishii K, Takamura N, Shinohara M, et al. Long-term follow-up of chronic hepatitis C patients treated with oral lactoferrin for 12 months. Hepatol Res. 2003;25(3):226-233. doI:10.1016/s1386-6346(02)00279-6

  6. Campione E, Lanna C, Cosio T, et al. Lactoferrin as antiviral treatment in COVID-19 management: preliminary evidenceInt J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(20):10985. doi:10.3390/ijerph182010985.

  7. Velliyagounder K, Rozario SD, Fine DH. The effects of human lactoferrin in experimentally induced systemic candidiasisJ Med Microbiol. 2019;68(12):1802-1812. doi:10.1099/jmm.0.001098

  8. Kim J, Ko Y, Park YK, et al. Dietary effect of lactoferrin-enriched fermented milk on skin surface lipid and clinical improvement of acne vulgaris. Nutrition. 2010;26(9):902-9. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2010.05.011

  9. Mueller EA, Trapp S, Frentzel A, Kirch W, Brantl V. Efficacy and tolerability of oral lactoferrin supplementation in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: an exploratory studyCurr Med Res Opin. 2011;27(4):793-797. doi:10.1185/03007995.2011.557720.

  10. Chen XW, Li YH, Zhang MJ, et al. Lactoferrin ameliorates aging-suppressed osteogenesis via IGF1 signalingJ Mol Endocrinol. 2019;63(1):63-75. doi:10.1530/JME-19-0003.

  11. Fan F , Shi P , Liu M , et al. Lactoferrin preserves bone homeostasis by regulating the RANKL/RANK/OPG pathway of osteoimmunologyFood Funct. 2018;9(5):2653-2660. doi:10.1039/c8fo00303c.

  12. Zhao X, Zhang X, Xu T, et al. Comparative Effects between Oral Lactoferrin and Ferrous Sulfate Supplementation on Iron-Deficiency Anemia: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 27;14(3):543. doi: 10.3390/nu14030543

  13. June D, Konstantin AT, Lumbanradja LA, et al. Lactoferrin as treatment for iron-deficiency anemia in children: a systematic review. Turk J Pediatr. 2023;65(4):543-554. doi: 10.24953/turkjped.2022.670

  14. Kowalczyk P, Kaczyńska K, Kleczkowska P, et al. The Lactoferrin Phenomenon-A Miracle Molecule. Molecules. 2022 May 4;27(9):2941. doi: 10.3390/molecules27092941

  15. Li B, Zhang B, Liu X, et al. The effect of lactoferrin in aging: role and potential. Food Funct. 2022 Jan 24;13(2):501-513. doi: 10.1039/d1fo02750f

  16. Nagaoka K, Ito T, Ogino K, Eguchi E, Fujikura Y. Human lactoferrin induces asthmatic symptoms in NC/Nga micePhysiol Rep. 2017;5(15):e13365. doi:10.14814/phy2.13365.

  17. Manzoni P. Clinical benefits of lactoferrin for infants and childrenJ Pediatr. 2016;173 Suppl:S43-S52. doi:10.1016/j.jpeds.2016.02.075.

  18. Artym J, Zimecki M, Kruzel ML. Lactoferrin for prevention and treatment of anemia and inflammation in pregnant women: a comprehensive reviewBiomedicines. 2021;9(8):898. doi:10.3390/biomedicines9080898.

  19. Chang R, Ng TB, Sun WZ. Lactoferrin as potential preventative and adjunct treatment for COVID-19Int J Antimicrob Agents. 2020;56(3):106118. doi:10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2020.106118.

  20. Bhatwalkar SB, Mondal R, Krishna SBN, et al. Antibacterial properties of organosulfur compounds of garlic (Allium sativum)Front Microbiol. 2021;12:613077. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2021.613077.

  21. L Bishop E, Ismailova A, Dimeloe S, et al. Vitamin D and Immune Regulation: Antibacterial, Antiviral, Anti-Inflammatory. JBMR Plus. 2020 Sep 15;5(1):e10405. doi: 10.1002/jbm4.10405

  22. Bona E, Cantamessa S, Pavan M, Novello G, Massa N, Rocchetti A, Berta G, Gamalero E. Sensitivity of Candida albicans to essential oils: are they an alternative to antifungal agents? J Appl Microbiol. 2016 Dec;121(6):1530-1545. doi: 10.1111/jam.13282

  23. Leyden J, Stein-Gold L, Weiss J. Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acneDermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2017;7(3):293-304. doi:10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2.

  24. Rondanelli M, Faliva MA, Peroni G, et al. Pivotal role of boron supplementation on bone health: A narrative reviewJ Trace Elem Med Biol. 2020;62:126577. doi:10.1016/j.jtemb.2020.126577.

  25. Dupont D, Arnould C, Rolet-Repecaud O, et al. Determination of bovine lactoferrin concentrations in cheese with specific monoclonal antibodies. International Dairy Journal. 2006;16(9):1081-1087. doi: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2005.09.012

  26. Czosnykowska-Łukacka M, Orczyk-Pawiłowicz M, Broers B, et al. Lactoferrin in Human Milk of Prolonged Lactation. Nutrients. 2019 Oct 2;11(10):2350. doi: 10.3390/nu11102350

By Brittany Lubeck, MS, RDN
Brittany Lubeck, RD, is a nutrition writer and registered dietitian with a master's degree in clinical nutrition. 

Originally written by Cathy Wong