Lactoferrin – A Helping Hand in Treating Anaemia

Millions of people worldwide suffer from iron deficiency anaemia. Traditional treatment involves iron supplementation and dietary adjustments, but it doesn’t always bring the expected results. It’s estimated that up to 70% of those taking iron supplements experience digestive discomfort. What can you do when standard treatments don’t work? Read the article to learn more about lactoferrin.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anaemia affects as many as 40% of children, 37% of pregnant women, and 30% of women of reproductive age globally. One of the most common treatments for anaemia is iron supplementation. Unfortunately, many people experience gastrointestinal issues when taking these supplements, primarily due to unabsorbed iron fractions that linger in the intestines. For this reason, there is a growing search for alternative methods that improve iron absorption while reducing side effects. In recent years, lactoferrin, a protein that may play a key role in both the treatment and prevention of anaemia, has been gaining increasing attention.

What is Lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin is a glycoprotein naturally found in milk, saliva, tears, and respiratory secretions. Its highest concentration is found in colostrum, the first milk produced by mothers after childbirth. The protein’s name comes from Latin: “lacto” meaning milk and “ferrum” meaning iron, as it has a high affinity for iron. Lactoferrin serves various biological functions in the body, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Role of Lactoferrin in Anaemia

Lactoferrin binds to iron, forming complexes that are easily absorbed by intestinal cells, thereby increasing iron bioavailability in the body. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can improve gut health, directly enhancing iron absorption and improving blood markers.

In 2024, a review of 19 randomised clinical trials was published, aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of oral lactoferrin supplementation compared to traditional iron supplementation. A total of 2,992 participants (both children and adults) with low haemoglobin levels (≤ 11.5 g/dl) took part in these studies.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Lactoferrin and Iron Supplements

The results of these studies suggest that oral lactoferrin supplementation can be just as effective as traditional iron supplements in improving haemoglobin levels. In addition to boosting haemoglobin, lactoferrin has been shown to have a positive impact on overall health. Patients taking lactoferrin reported fewer side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues (e.g., constipation, diarrhoea, nausea), which are commonly associated with iron supplementation. This better tolerance of lactoferrin may stem from its natural anti-inflammatory and protective properties, which help soothe irritation in the digestive tract.

Who Should Consider Lactoferrin Supplementation?

There are currently no official guidelines for lactoferrin supplementation in cases of iron deficiency. However, in 2012, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirmed that lactoferrin is safe for use in all age groups, including infants.

Lactoferrin may be particularly beneficial for individuals for whom traditional iron supplementation is insufficient or unsuitable, such as those with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. It can also be used as a preventative measure against anaemia, especially for people at risk of iron deficiency, such as pregnant women and children.

Dosage

Standard doses of lactoferrin range from 100 to 400 mg per day for adults, and 10 to 200 mg for children. It can be taken on its own or in combination with iron supplements. Lactoferrin supplements should ideally be taken before meals for optimal absorption.

Contraindications

It’s important to note that dietary supplements use bovine lactoferrin, which is derived from cow’s milk. Therefore, individuals allergic to cow’s milk proteins may be at risk of allergic reactions. It is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting lactoferrin supplementation, especially for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

In summary, lactoferrin is a promising option for treating iron deficiency. Supplementation can be particularly beneficial for individuals sensitive to traditional iron supplements or those with impaired iron absorption. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation to tailor the dosage to individual needs. Anaemia often has an underlying cause, so in addition to supplementation, it’s important to investigate and address the root cause of the condition.

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