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10.8.14

Superfood Spotlight: Colostrum

What you need to know: Colostrum is the first milk produced by cows that is given to their calfs upon birth. It is the most nutrient-dense form of milk, containing antibodies, immune and growth factors (IgG, IgA, IgM), with higher protein levels and lower fat levels than ordinary milk. Colostrum is widely utilized as a “stand-in” immune system, protecting the body against infection, while strengthening its ability to withstand illness. It also contains adaptogenic properties, enhancing rejuvenation and the regeneration of tissues, allowing the body to thrive under any circumstance. Colostrum has also been found to raise low white-cell-count numbers and to improve digestion, especially in those suffering from food-borne illnesses and leaky gut.

Why you should try it: Colostrum is not only an immune-targeting superfood, but is widely used to boost athletic performance. Colostrum is a natural source of MSM, organic sulfur, which is used to lower inflammation levels, and to support joint mobility. It also contains lactoferrin, a natural compound that improves oxygen transport in the blood, thereby maximizing endurance and strength building. Research has also indicated that the growth factors found in colostrum may enhance muscle tone and bone density and burn body fat, while building strength and shortening recovery time.

Let’s get together: Colostrum is found in powder form and has a rich cream flavor that’s easy to incorporate into your favorite sweet recipes. It helps to deepen the malt taste of a smoothie, turning a healthy smoothie into a decadent, dessert-like one. Our favorite creation is to blend Surthrival Colostrum into this chocolate smoothie. Other ways to use colostrum powder are to take it in capsule form, mix it into overnight porridge, or follow Crosby Tailor’s lead and whisk it into vanilla frosting!

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Comments


  1. It is such a sad thing that we can deprive a baby (cow) the milk intended for it from it’s mother. Colostrum made available to us is a reminder that we are separating these babies from their mothers from the very first moment they are born – to agonizing cries from both. It’s not natural, it’s not humane and it’s not necessary or even good for our health (read The China Study for a comprehensive overview). It is sad that this happens at all but to promote and encourage it…? Shame on us for being the only species capable of doing this to another.

    Bella Rose | 10.30.2014 | Reply
  2. I agree with the above comment. It makes me horribly sad to think about how this product is taken from the baby calves who desperately need it. All babies (at least all mammal babies) need colostrum, but no adult human does.

    Chalkboard, I hope that you will please consider removing this post, as it does not reflect your stance on providing information for sustainable products that are healthy for animals, humans, and the environment.

    Abbey P. | 11.20.2014 | Reply
  3. In regards to the above comments, please know that colostrum is ONLY taken from the cow after the calf has had it’s fill of milk. They let the calf feed as long as it wants to before taking colostrum, and a 3rd party is there to verify this humane process. Calves wouldn’t feed longer than an hour, let alone 6 hours, so there is plenty of time to extract the colostrum milk.

    I use Surthrival colostrum over other brands because I’m positive that they follow this process. 🙂

    Brittany | 12.17.2014 | Reply
    • Great clarification for our readers, Brittany – thank you!

      The Chalkboard Mag | 12.19.2014 | Reply
  4. I agree with the above comments that this is a product derived from a cruel industry that is harmful to animals, the environment and our bodies (read “The China Study”). It’s both sad and disappointing to see such a product/industry promoted and encouraged, especially by the team of people behind the Chalkboard Mag. “Only obtained after the calf has had it’s fill”? Please, do your research on the dairy industry and reconsider your stance of driving up consumer demand for yet another product that comes to us through inhumane and unethical practices.

    lily lawrence | 07.16.2015 | Reply

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