Lactoferrin
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Lactoferrin. Iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and immunomodulating effects.
How it works. Sequesters iron from pathogens; modulates immune signaling.
What the research supports. 2 graded claims. Strongest: Reduces H. pylori in triple therapy (moderate).
How much to take. Typical dose: 200–600 mg/d.
Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. Serious: Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing.
Stacking. Pairs well with Vitamin D3 + K2, Zinc.
Common forms. Available as Apolactoferrin.
Key studies. 9 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried Lactoferrin. Anecdotes are not medical advice.
Lactoferrin. Iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and immunomodulating effects.
What it is
Iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and immunomodulating effects.
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Sequesters iron from pathogens; modulates immune signaling.
Pathways
- Iron sequestration
- Immune modulation
Effects
- +Antimicrobial activity supports
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Common side effects
- Lactoferrin is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
Serious
- Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Medication interactions
Always disclose Lactoferrin use to your prescriber — additive, antagonistic, or pharmacokinetic interactions are possible.
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- Vitamin D3 + K2Foundational immune modulation.
- ZincRequired cofactor for innate and adaptive immune function.
Common forms
- Apolactoferrin
Key studies
9 studies cited in total.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Lactoferrin and "Reduces H. pylori in triple therapy". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Lactoferrin and "Reduces sepsis in preterm infants". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Lactoferrin and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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