Lactoferrin

Protein

Also known as: Apolactoferrin, Bovine lactoferrin, LF

Grade B

💊 100-300mg daily🎯 4 primary uses🔗 3 synergies⚠️ Review warnings

Overview

Iron-binding protein from milk with antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune-modulating properties. Supports gut and systemic immunity.

Primary Uses

AntimicrobialImmune modulationIron regulationGut immunity

Frequently Asked About Lactoferrin

How much Lactoferrin should I take?

The typical effective range is 100-300mg daily. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.

When is the best time to take Lactoferrin?

Empty stomach or between meals. Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.

Should I take Lactoferrin with food?

Empty stomach may be optimal.

Does Lactoferrin interact with medications?

Yes — known interactions include May affect iron absorption and Generally safe. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Lactoferrin.

What does Lactoferrin pair well with?

Lactoferrin stacks well with Probiotics, Zinc, and Vitamin C — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.

Who should not take Lactoferrin?

Lactoferrin should be avoided or used with caution by people with Milk/dairy allergy (bovine source). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

What are the side effects of Lactoferrin?

Most people tolerate Lactoferrin well. The most commonly reported side effects are Rare, well tolerated and Mild GI upset possible. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.

Dosage

Typical range

100-300mg daily

Timing

Empty stomach or between meals

With food

Empty stomach may be optimal

Duration

Daily for immune support

Special Populations

Those with recurrent infections, gut issues

Research & Studies

Search the literature now

We haven’t curated landmark studies for Lactoferrinyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.

Search Lactoferrin research

PubMed (RCTs) ↗Randomized trials PubMed (all) ↗Full literature Cochrane Reviews ↗Systematic reviews Examine.com ↗Research summaries

Browse all curated studies →

Mechanism of Action

• Binds iron, starving pathogens
• Direct antimicrobial activity
• Modulates immune cell activity
• Enhances gut barrier function

Evidence Quality

Evidence Grade B

Promising research, especially for gut and immunity

Safety & Contraindications

Serious Warnings

• None significant

Contraindications

• Milk/dairy allergy (bovine source)

Common Side Effects

• Rare, well tolerated
• Mild GI upset possible

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Consult healthcare provider

Liver & Kidney Notes

Safe

Interactions

💊 Medications

• May affect iron absorption
• Generally safe

🧪 Supplements

• May reduce iron supplement absorption if taken together

🍽️ Food & Alcohol

• Empty stomach may enhance effect

Stacking & Synergies

Pairs Well With

Probiotics ↗Zinc ↗Vitamin C ↗

Avoid Combining With

Take iron separately

Best Goal Synergies

Immune supportGut health

Buying Guide

What to Look For

• High purity
• Low iron saturation
• Third-party tested

Standardization Markers

Lactoferrin contentPurity percentage

Adulteration risk

Low

Practical Notes

• Take away from iron supplements
• Supports gut barrier
• Safe for long-term use

More in Protein

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Provides amino acids glycine, proline, and glutamine that support gut lining repair and barrier function.

Pea Protein

Plant-based protein from yellow peas. Complete amino acid profile, hypoallergenic, and easily digestible alternative to dairy proteins.

Rice Protein

Plant-based protein from brown rice. Hypoallergenic and pairs well with pea protein for complete amino acid profile.

SBI (Serum-Derived Bovine Immunoglobulins)

Concentrated immunoglobulins that bind pathogens and toxins in the gut, supporting barrier function.

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Last reviewed: August 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.

Cite this page

Formulate Research Team. (2026, August). Lactoferrin — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/lactoferrin-immune

Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.