What are the side effects of taking colostrum powder?

November 24, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2023 review, while bovine colostrum is generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience mild digestive issues, especially when first starting. Understanding the full spectrum of side effects associated with taking colostrum powder is crucial for making an informed decision about your health.

Quick Summary

Potential side effects of colostrum powder include digestive discomfort like bloating, gas, and diarrhea, as well as allergic reactions in those sensitive to dairy. Mild side effects can often be mitigated by starting with a lower dose, while individuals with dairy allergies should avoid it entirely. Other concerns include inconsistent product quality due to lack of FDA regulation and potential interactions with certain medications. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended before starting supplementation.

Key Points

Digestive Upset: The most common side effects include bloating, gas, and diarrhea, which can often be managed by reducing the dose or taking it with food.
Dairy Allergy Risk: Individuals with a cow's milk protein allergy must avoid colostrum powder, as it can trigger severe allergic reactions.
Quality Varies: Due to a lack of strict FDA regulation, the purity, potency, and safety of colostrum supplements are not guaranteed, so selecting a reputable brand is essential.
Medication Interactions: Colostrum may interfere with immunosuppressant medications and other treatments, so consultation with a doctor is necessary.
Cautious Use for Specific Groups: Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and those with certain health conditions like hormone-sensitive cancers should proceed with caution or avoid use altogether.
Start Slowly: To minimize initial digestive discomfort, it's best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as your body adapts.

Common Side Effects of Colostrum Powder

Colostrum, the pre-milk fluid produced by mammals after giving birth, is available as a dietary supplement, most often in powder form from bovine (cow) sources. It is rich in immune-supporting compounds like antibodies and growth factors. While many users tolerate it well, particularly at lower doses, it's essential to be aware of the potential negative effects associated with taking colostrum powder. The most frequently reported issues are related to digestive health.

Digestive Discomfort

For some individuals, particularly those starting with a high dose, colostrum powder can trigger gastrointestinal distress. The severity can range from mild to more bothersome and is often temporary as the body adjusts.

Bloating and Gas: Some individuals report feeling bloated and experiencing increased flatulence. This is often related to the lactose content or the adjustment period for the digestive system.
Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools are a common side effect, especially when consuming higher doses. Reducing the dosage can often alleviate this symptom.
Nausea: A feeling of sickness or unease in the stomach may occur, particularly if the supplement is taken on an empty stomach.
Stomach Upset: A general feeling of digestive upset or cramping may be experienced as the gut's microbiome adjusts to the new supplement.

Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities

Since colostrum powder is a dairy product, it is not suitable for everyone, especially those with pre-existing allergies or sensitivities to milk.

Dairy Allergy: Individuals with a diagnosed allergy to cow's milk protein should not take bovine colostrum powder. An allergic reaction can be more severe than typical digestive upset and may involve hives, itching, or swelling. In rare cases, a serious anaphylactic reaction could occur.
Lactose Intolerance: While colostrum contains lower levels of lactose than mature milk, people with lactose intolerance may still experience gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. Tolerability varies widely, and starting with a very small amount is recommended to test sensitivity.

Potential Drug Interactions and Contraindications

While not extensively studied, colostrum has the potential to interact with certain medications or worsen specific health conditions. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing health concerns or are taking other medications.

Table: Colostrum Considerations by Health Condition


Health Condition / Medication	Considerations for Colostrum Powder	Rationale for Caution
Dairy Allergy (Milk Protein)	Avoid completely.	Contains casein and other milk proteins that can trigger severe allergic reactions.
Immunosuppressants	Consult a healthcare provider before use.	As an immune modulator, colostrum could potentially interfere with the efficacy of medications designed to suppress the immune system.
Cancer (Hormone-Sensitive)	Discuss with your doctor.	Concerns have been raised about the growth factor IGF-1 possibly stimulating certain cancers, though studies on circulating IGF-1 levels after colostrum ingestion in healthy adults show no significant increase.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding	Avoid unless medically advised.	The safety and effects of colostrum supplementation on pregnant or breastfeeding women and their infants are not well-established.
Kidney Problems	Consult a healthcare provider before use.	In some formulations, colostrum may affect mineral levels, and regular monitoring of calcium might be necessary.

Quality and Regulatory Concerns

One of the most significant drawbacks of colostrum supplements is the lack of strict regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This poses several risks for consumers.

Product Inconsistency: The amount of active ingredients, like immunoglobulins, can vary considerably from one batch or brand to another. This means consumers may not be getting the potency advertised on the label.
Contamination Risks: Without rigorous testing, there is a potential for contamination with pathogens (harmful bacteria), heavy metals, pesticides, or antibiotic residues. Choosing a brand that uses third-party testing can help mitigate this risk.
Misleading Labeling: Some products may contain undisclosed additives or fillers, making it difficult for consumers to know exactly what they are taking.

To ensure you are purchasing a high-quality product, look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing from grass-fed cows and undergo third-party testing by reputable organizations like NSF, USP, or ConsumerLab.

What to Do If You Experience Side Effects

If you experience side effects while taking colostrum powder, consider the following steps:

Reduce the Dose: For mild digestive issues like gas or diarrhea, simply cutting back on the amount of powder you take can often resolve the problem.
Take with Food: Consuming the supplement with a meal instead of on an empty stomach may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
Discontinue Use: If side effects are severe or persistent, or if you suspect an allergic reaction, stop taking the supplement immediately.
Consult a Professional: If symptoms continue or worsen, or if you have any serious concerns, contact your doctor or a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Conclusion

While many people use colostrum powder with no adverse effects, it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects, particularly digestive issues, allergic reactions, and concerns about product quality. Individuals with dairy allergies or sensitivities, those on immunosuppressants, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should exercise caution or avoid the supplement altogether. Due to the supplement industry's lack of FDA regulation, selecting a high-quality product from a reputable, third-party-tested brand is essential. Always consult a healthcare professional before adding colostrum to your routine to ensure it is the right and safest choice for your individual needs.

For more detailed clinical information on bovine colostrum, you can refer to the resources provided by the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, colostrum powder can cause diarrhea, especially when first starting the supplement or when taking higher doses. It is often a mild and temporary digestive discomfort that can be managed by reducing the dose.

People with lactose intolerance should approach colostrum with caution, as it contains lactose and can cause digestive issues like bloating and gas. Tolerability varies, and it is best to start with a very small amount to test your reaction.

Individuals with a confirmed cow's milk protein allergy or sensitivity should not take colostrum powder. Additionally, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of safety data.

Yes, colostrum has immunomodulatory effects and may interfere with immunosuppressant medications. It is crucial to consult a doctor before use if you are on any immune-related treatments.

Since dietary supplements are not strictly regulated by the FDA, there is a risk of contamination with heavy metals, bacteria, or pesticides, particularly in lower-quality products. Buying from a reputable brand with third-party testing helps mitigate this risk.

Yes, bloating is a potential side effect of colostrum powder, especially at higher doses or when starting supplementation. It is a form of digestive discomfort that can occur due to its dairy-based nature.

Long-term side effects are not well-studied, and there is a lack of robust research on this topic. Concerns about growth factors like IGF-1 have been raised, but studies suggest standard doses do not increase circulating IGF-1 levels in healthy adults.