Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 115 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Lactoferrin (as Apolactoferrin)
250 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
9.5
Lactoferrin outperforms iron complex
We explored the effectiveness of lactoferrin compared to iron hydroxide polymaltose complex in treating iron deficiency anemia in children with cerebral palsy. In a randomized controlled trial involving 70 children, both treatments showed improvements in hemoglobin and other blood parameters after four weeks. However, lactoferrin was found to be superior, with significantly greater increases in hemoglobin levels and fewer side effects, such as constipation, compared to the iron complex. This suggests that lactoferrin may be a better option for treating anemia in these children.
Read More
9
We explored the effects of lactoferrin on iron deficiency anemia in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis. In a controlled study, 70 patients took lactoferrin for six months alongside another group that received ferrous glycine sulfate.
The results were striking: lactoferrin significantly lowered hepcidin levels, increasing hemoglobin concentrations and transferrin saturation more than the sulfate treatment did. These findings suggest that lactoferrin could be an effective new treatment option for anemia, especially for those on hemodialysis.
The results were striking: lactoferrin significantly lowered hepcidin levels, increasing hemoglobin concentrations and transferrin saturation more than the sulfate treatment did. These findings suggest that lactoferrin could be an effective new treatment option for anemia, especially for those on hemodialysis.
Read More
8
We focused on comparing the effectiveness of lactoferrin and oral ferrous sulfate in treating iron-deficiency anemia in children with inflammatory bowel disease. Involving 92 participants, the study ended with 80 who completed the treatment. Those taking lactoferrin experienced fewer side effects compared to those on ferrous sulfate. Our findings suggest that lactoferrin could be a promising alternative for managing anemia in these children, potentially leading to better compliance and health outcomes.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Ferritin has risen
207 people found this helpful
I am truly grateful that I discovered Lactoferrin! I have chronic anaemia and struggled to increase my ferritin levels. After ceasing iron supplements, my ferritin dropped to 3. Thankfully, Lactoferrin raised it to 56! My health has greatly improved; my depression has lifted, my sleep quality has enhanced, and I've gained warmth in my limbs. This supplement has remarkable properties against various viruses and aids in cell oxygenation, boosting stamina and recovery from illness.
Read More
7.5
Helps iron absorption
144 people found this helpful
Thanks to Lactoferrin, I could finally increase my ferritin levels. Initially, I struggled with absorbing iron due to my anaemia. Lactoferrin, a protein found in blood plasma, transports iron to cells and regulates its levels. I trust Jarrow's high-quality products. My energy levels have improved significantly now that I take this alongside iron supplements, and it is gluten-free, which is essential for those with intolerances.
Read More
9
Ferritin levels rising
77 people found this helpful
Ferritin improved! I absolutely love this product! Over the past year, I was diagnosed with H. Pylori, SIBO, gluten intolerance, and anemia, while taking iron with cofactors without seeing progress in my ferritin levels. After starting this supplement, my ferritin increased from 17 to 45, and my gut health has vastly improved. I would advise anyone experiencing "allergic" reactions like rashes to consider if they are having a Herxheimer reaction. I believe many in my family could greatly benefit from this supplement and am convinced there is a significant connection between gut health and overall well-being.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 17 Researches
7.9
- All Researches
9.5
Lactoferrin outperforms iron complex
We explored the effectiveness of lactoferrin compared to iron hydroxide polymaltose complex in treating iron deficiency anemia in children with cerebral palsy. In a randomized controlled trial involving 70 children, both treatments showed improvements in hemoglobin and other blood parameters after four weeks. However, lactoferrin was found to be superior, with significantly greater increases in hemoglobin levels and fewer side effects, such as constipation, compared to the iron complex. This suggests that lactoferrin may be a better option for treating anemia in these children.
Read More
9
We explored an important question regarding anemia management in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In a randomized clinical trial, we compared the effectiveness of oral lactoferrin and intravenous iron dextran in treating anemia related to CKD in pediatrics.
The study involved 60 children who were divided into two groups: one received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin daily for three months, while the other group was treated with IV iron dextran three times a week. After the treatment period, we observed significant changes in several blood parameters among those taking oral lactoferrin, specifically in hemoglobin, red blood cells, and various other indicators related to anemia.
However, while both treatments proved effective, we found no significant differences between the two groups overall in improving anemia symptoms after three months. Ultimately, while oral lactoferrin showed promising results, it did not outperform IV iron dextran to a degree that would change treatment choices.
The study involved 60 children who were divided into two groups: one received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin daily for three months, while the other group was treated with IV iron dextran three times a week. After the treatment period, we observed significant changes in several blood parameters among those taking oral lactoferrin, specifically in hemoglobin, red blood cells, and various other indicators related to anemia.
However, while both treatments proved effective, we found no significant differences between the two groups overall in improving anemia symptoms after three months. Ultimately, while oral lactoferrin showed promising results, it did not outperform IV iron dextran to a degree that would change treatment choices.
Read More
9
We aimed to understand how lactoferrin, a protein known for its potential health benefits, affects anemia in patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our study included 46 adults with stage 5 CKD who were experiencing anemia despite being on stable doses of erythropoietin, a common treatment for this condition.
Participants received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin twice a day for one month, and some also received iron supplements. We measured how their hemoglobin levels changed over this period and looked at inflammatory markers, which can indicate how the body reacts to illness.
From our findings, we observed significant improvements in hemoglobin levels by the end of the study. Initially, participants had a mean hemoglobin level of 8.18 g/dl, and by four weeks, it had risen to 8.96 g/dl. Interestingly, we noted that women experienced a greater increase in hemoglobin than men, and those who received iron supplements alongside lactoferrin showed an even better response.
However, when looking at inflammatory markers, the results were less clear. There appeared to be a decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which was not significant, along with a slight, not meaningful increase in C-reactive protein levels. This suggests that while lactoferrin might improve hemoglobin levels for patients with advanced CKD and anemia, its impact on inflammation remains uncertain.
Participants received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin twice a day for one month, and some also received iron supplements. We measured how their hemoglobin levels changed over this period and looked at inflammatory markers, which can indicate how the body reacts to illness.
From our findings, we observed significant improvements in hemoglobin levels by the end of the study. Initially, participants had a mean hemoglobin level of 8.18 g/dl, and by four weeks, it had risen to 8.96 g/dl. Interestingly, we noted that women experienced a greater increase in hemoglobin than men, and those who received iron supplements alongside lactoferrin showed an even better response.
However, when looking at inflammatory markers, the results were less clear. There appeared to be a decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which was not significant, along with a slight, not meaningful increase in C-reactive protein levels. This suggests that while lactoferrin might improve hemoglobin levels for patients with advanced CKD and anemia, its impact on inflammation remains uncertain.
Read More
9
We explored the effects of lactoferrin on iron deficiency anemia in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis. In a controlled study, 70 patients took lactoferrin for six months alongside another group that received ferrous glycine sulfate.
The results were striking: lactoferrin significantly lowered hepcidin levels, increasing hemoglobin concentrations and transferrin saturation more than the sulfate treatment did. These findings suggest that lactoferrin could be an effective new treatment option for anemia, especially for those on hemodialysis.
The results were striking: lactoferrin significantly lowered hepcidin levels, increasing hemoglobin concentrations and transferrin saturation more than the sulfate treatment did. These findings suggest that lactoferrin could be an effective new treatment option for anemia, especially for those on hemodialysis.
Read More
9
We explored whether lactoferrin (Lf) can effectively treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children. By reviewing eleven clinical trials, including ten randomized controlled trials, we found that Lf significantly improved hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin compared to iron or placebo treatments.
Additionally, Lf was associated with fewer side effects, such as constipation, making it a more pleasant option for little ones. Overall, our findings suggest that lactoferrin is a promising supplement for improving anemia in children.
Additionally, Lf was associated with fewer side effects, such as constipation, making it a more pleasant option for little ones. Overall, our findings suggest that lactoferrin is a promising supplement for improving anemia in children.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 115 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Ferritin has risen
207 people found this helpful
I am truly grateful that I discovered Lactoferrin! I have chronic anaemia and struggled to increase my ferritin levels. After ceasing iron supplements, my ferritin dropped to 3. Thankfully, Lactoferrin raised it to 56! My health has greatly improved; my depression has lifted, my sleep quality has enhanced, and I've gained warmth in my limbs. This supplement has remarkable properties against various viruses and aids in cell oxygenation, boosting stamina and recovery from illness.
Read More
7.5
Helps iron absorption
144 people found this helpful
Thanks to Lactoferrin, I could finally increase my ferritin levels. Initially, I struggled with absorbing iron due to my anaemia. Lactoferrin, a protein found in blood plasma, transports iron to cells and regulates its levels. I trust Jarrow's high-quality products. My energy levels have improved significantly now that I take this alongside iron supplements, and it is gluten-free, which is essential for those with intolerances.
Read More
9
Ferritin levels rising
77 people found this helpful
Ferritin improved! I absolutely love this product! Over the past year, I was diagnosed with H. Pylori, SIBO, gluten intolerance, and anemia, while taking iron with cofactors without seeing progress in my ferritin levels. After starting this supplement, my ferritin increased from 17 to 45, and my gut health has vastly improved. I would advise anyone experiencing "allergic" reactions like rashes to consider if they are having a Herxheimer reaction. I believe many in my family could greatly benefit from this supplement and am convinced there is a significant connection between gut health and overall well-being.
Read More
9
Fights yeast infections
72 people found this helpful
I experienced symptoms of an intestinal yeast infection while taking iron for my anaemia. I discovered that Lactoferrin binds to iron, making it unavailable to yeast while effectively transporting it into my cells. I am thankful to iHerb for this affordable product and excellent service.
Read More
9
Stopped hair loss
64 people found this helpful
Suffering from iron deficiency anaemia led to severe hair loss. Traditional iron supplements weren't effective, so I researched Lactoferrin's ability to enhance iron absorption. After two months of taking it with iron, my iron levels normalised, my skin improved, and most importantly, my hair loss has significantly reduced, with new growth appearing.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Rapid ferritin increase
21 people found this helpful
I’ve been treating my anaemia with iron preparations for four months, raising my ferritin from 9 to 40. After starting Lactoferrin, my ferritin rose to 95 in just a month. My health has improved significantly.
9
Increased energy
11 people found this helpful
I find lactoferrin excellent for supporting my immune system and treating my iron deficiency anaemia. After two weeks of use, my energy surged. It has noticeable antibacterial properties, and the quality of the product is good.
7.5
Reduced anaemia symptoms
14 people found this helpful
I bought lactoferrin based on excellent reviews. It has significantly improved my anaemia symptoms, such as lightheadedness. Additionally, I noticed improvements in Meniere's syndrome and unexpected benefits for my acne.
9
Stopped hair loss
64 people found this helpful
Suffering from iron deficiency anaemia led to severe hair loss. Traditional iron supplements weren't effective, so I researched Lactoferrin's ability to enhance iron absorption. After two months of taking it with iron, my iron levels normalised, my skin improved, and most importantly, my hair loss has significantly reduced, with new growth appearing.
9
Remarkable results achieved
17 people found this helpful
Before taking iron supplements, my haemoglobin was 116 and ferritin 16.94. After two weeks of combining Gentle Iron, Vitamin C, and Lactoferrin, my haemoglobin rose to 137 and ferritin to 42.19. This is an excellent result.
9
Fights yeast infections
72 people found this helpful
I experienced symptoms of an intestinal yeast infection while taking iron for my anaemia. I discovered that Lactoferrin binds to iron, making it unavailable to yeast while effectively transporting it into my cells. I am thankful to iHerb for this affordable product and excellent service.
9
We explored an important question regarding anemia management in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In a randomized clinical trial, we compared the effectiveness of oral lactoferrin and intravenous iron dextran in treating anemia related to CKD in pediatrics.
The study involved 60 children who were divided into two groups: one received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin daily for three months, while the other group was treated with IV iron dextran three times a week. After the treatment period, we observed significant changes in several blood parameters among those taking oral lactoferrin, specifically in hemoglobin, red blood cells, and various other indicators related to anemia.
However, while both treatments proved effective, we found no significant differences between the two groups overall in improving anemia symptoms after three months. Ultimately, while oral lactoferrin showed promising results, it did not outperform IV iron dextran to a degree that would change treatment choices.
The study involved 60 children who were divided into two groups: one received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin daily for three months, while the other group was treated with IV iron dextran three times a week. After the treatment period, we observed significant changes in several blood parameters among those taking oral lactoferrin, specifically in hemoglobin, red blood cells, and various other indicators related to anemia.
However, while both treatments proved effective, we found no significant differences between the two groups overall in improving anemia symptoms after three months. Ultimately, while oral lactoferrin showed promising results, it did not outperform IV iron dextran to a degree that would change treatment choices.
9
We explored whether lactoferrin (Lf) can effectively treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children. By reviewing eleven clinical trials, including ten randomized controlled trials, we found that Lf significantly improved hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin compared to iron or placebo treatments.
Additionally, Lf was associated with fewer side effects, such as constipation, making it a more pleasant option for little ones. Overall, our findings suggest that lactoferrin is a promising supplement for improving anemia in children.
Additionally, Lf was associated with fewer side effects, such as constipation, making it a more pleasant option for little ones. Overall, our findings suggest that lactoferrin is a promising supplement for improving anemia in children.
8
Lactoferrin improves anemia during pregnancy
We sought to determine how effective lactoferrin, paired with health education, is compared to traditional iron infusion in treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) during pregnancy. In our study, 120 pregnant women were divided into two groups: one receiving lactoferrin sachets and health education, the other getting low-molecular weight iron dextran infusions.
After a month of treatment, we observed that the group taking lactoferrin showed significant improvement in hemoglobin levels, making it a promising alternative to iron infusions. Enhanced health education also played a key role in raising awareness and managing IDA effectively.
After a month of treatment, we observed that the group taking lactoferrin showed significant improvement in hemoglobin levels, making it a promising alternative to iron infusions. Enhanced health education also played a key role in raising awareness and managing IDA effectively.
9
We aimed to understand how lactoferrin, a protein known for its potential health benefits, affects anemia in patients suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our study included 46 adults with stage 5 CKD who were experiencing anemia despite being on stable doses of erythropoietin, a common treatment for this condition.
Participants received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin twice a day for one month, and some also received iron supplements. We measured how their hemoglobin levels changed over this period and looked at inflammatory markers, which can indicate how the body reacts to illness.
From our findings, we observed significant improvements in hemoglobin levels by the end of the study. Initially, participants had a mean hemoglobin level of 8.18 g/dl, and by four weeks, it had risen to 8.96 g/dl. Interestingly, we noted that women experienced a greater increase in hemoglobin than men, and those who received iron supplements alongside lactoferrin showed an even better response.
However, when looking at inflammatory markers, the results were less clear. There appeared to be a decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which was not significant, along with a slight, not meaningful increase in C-reactive protein levels. This suggests that while lactoferrin might improve hemoglobin levels for patients with advanced CKD and anemia, its impact on inflammation remains uncertain.
Participants received 100 mg of oral lactoferrin twice a day for one month, and some also received iron supplements. We measured how their hemoglobin levels changed over this period and looked at inflammatory markers, which can indicate how the body reacts to illness.
From our findings, we observed significant improvements in hemoglobin levels by the end of the study. Initially, participants had a mean hemoglobin level of 8.18 g/dl, and by four weeks, it had risen to 8.96 g/dl. Interestingly, we noted that women experienced a greater increase in hemoglobin than men, and those who received iron supplements alongside lactoferrin showed an even better response.
However, when looking at inflammatory markers, the results were less clear. There appeared to be a decrease in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which was not significant, along with a slight, not meaningful increase in C-reactive protein levels. This suggests that while lactoferrin might improve hemoglobin levels for patients with advanced CKD and anemia, its impact on inflammation remains uncertain.
8
We explored how lactoferrin, particularly in a new formulation called Valpalf, can help with anemia. This study highlighted the properties of bovine lactoferrin (bLf) as an iron-binding protein that supports our immune system and has various beneficial effects. Notably, many people tolerate bLf well, even at higher doses.
Valpalf combines bLf with sodium citrate and sodium bicarbonate, leading to improved iron-binding abilities and greater effectiveness in reducing inflammation markers, like interleukin-6 (IL-6). When tested in macrophages and monocytes, Valpalf showed a more potent capacity to impact antioxidant enzyme expression compared to standard bLf.
Not only did Valpalf demonstrate these promising effects in laboratory settings, but it also produced favorable results in a retrospective study. This study looked at how Valpalf influenced anemia in pregnant and non-pregnant women with hereditary thrombophilia. We observed that using Valpalf led to better hematological outcomes and a notable reduction in IL-6 levels compared to traditional bLf alone.
Valpalf combines bLf with sodium citrate and sodium bicarbonate, leading to improved iron-binding abilities and greater effectiveness in reducing inflammation markers, like interleukin-6 (IL-6). When tested in macrophages and monocytes, Valpalf showed a more potent capacity to impact antioxidant enzyme expression compared to standard bLf.
Not only did Valpalf demonstrate these promising effects in laboratory settings, but it also produced favorable results in a retrospective study. This study looked at how Valpalf influenced anemia in pregnant and non-pregnant women with hereditary thrombophilia. We observed that using Valpalf led to better hematological outcomes and a notable reduction in IL-6 levels compared to traditional bLf alone.
References
- Hegazy SK, Koura MSE, Elharoun MS. Oral lactoferrin as a treatment of pediatrics' anemia resulted from chronic kidney diseases: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2025;15:4380. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-88506-2
- Rosa L, Ianiro G, Niro A, Musci G, Paesano R, et al. Valpalf: A New Nutraceutical Formulation Containing Bovine Lactoferrin That Exhibits Potentiated Biological Activity. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25. doi:10.3390/ijms25168559
- Kekan K, Divyaveer S, Kashyap M, Premkumar M, Zohmangaihi D, et al. Effectiveness of Lactoferrin in the Treatment of Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Single-Center Pilot Study. Indian J Nephrol. 2024;34:222. doi:10.4103/ijn.ijn_13_23
- Mahmoud RMA, Mohammed A. Lactoferrin: A Promising New Player in Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Patients on Regular Hemodialysis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Saudi J Kidney Dis Transpl. 2023;34:235. doi:10.4103/1319-2442.393996
- June D, Konstantin AT, Lumbanradja LA, Aryani A, Hengky A. Lactoferrin as treatment for iron-deficiency anemia in children: a systematic review. Turk J Pediatr. 2023;65:543. doi:10.24953/turkjped.2022.670
- Miyakawa M, Oda H, Tanaka M. Clinical research review: usefulness of bovine lactoferrin in child health. Biometals. 2023;36:473. doi:10.1007/s10534-022-00430-4
- El Amrousy D, El-Afify D, Elsawy A, Elsheikh M, Donia A, et al. Lactoferrin for iron-deficiency anemia in children with inflammatory bowel disease: a clinical trial. Pediatr Res. 2022;92:762. doi:10.1038/s41390-022-02136-2
- Zhao X, Zhang X, Xu T, Luo J, Luo Y, et al. Comparative Effects between Oral Lactoferrin and Ferrous Sulfate Supplementation on Iron-Deficiency Anemia: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients. 2022;14. doi:10.3390/nu14030543
- El-Hawy MA, Abd Al-Salam SA, Bahbah WA. Comparing oral iron bisglycinate chelate, lactoferrin, lactoferrin with iron and iron polymaltose complex in the treatment of children with iron deficiency anemia. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2021;46:367. doi:10.1016/j.clnesp.2021.08.040
- da Silva Lopes K, Yamaji N, Rahman MO, Suto M, Takemoto Y, et al. Nutrition-specific interventions for preventing and controlling anaemia throughout the life cycle: an overview of systematic reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021;9:CD013092. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD013092.pub2
- Chen K, Jin S, Chen H, Cao Y, Dong X, et al. Dose effect of bovine lactoferrin fortification on diarrhea and respiratory tract infections in weaned infants with anemia: A randomized, controlled trial. Nutrition. 2021;90:111288. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2021.111288
- Omar OM, Assem H, Ahmed D, Abd Elmaksoud MS. Lactoferrin versus iron hydroxide polymaltose complex for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in children with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Pediatr. 2021;180:2609. doi:10.1007/s00431-021-04125-9
- Björmsjö M, Hernell O, Lönnerdal B, Berglund SK. Reducing Iron Content in Infant Formula from 8 to 2 mg/L Does Not Increase the Risk of Iron Deficiency at 4 or 6 Months of Age: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2020;13. doi:10.3390/nu13010003
- Rosa L, Lepanto MS, Cutone A, Siciliano RA, Paesano R, et al. Influence of oral administration mode on the efficacy of commercial bovine Lactoferrin against iron and inflammatory homeostasis disorders. Biometals. 2020;33:159. doi:10.1007/s10534-020-00236-2
- Chen K, Zhang G, Chen H, Cao Y, Dong X, et al. Dose Effect of Bovine Lactoferrin Fortification on Iron Metabolism of Anemic Infants. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2020;66:24. doi:10.3177/jnsv.66.24
- Lepanto MS, Rosa L, Cutone A, Conte MP, Paesano R, et al. Efficacy of Lactoferrin Oral Administration in the Treatment of Anemia and Anemia of Inflammation in Pregnant and Non-pregnant Women: An Interventional Study. Front Immunol. 2018;9:2123. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2018.02123
- Darwish AM, Fouly HA, Saied WH, Farah E. Lactoferrin plus health education versus total dose infusion (TDI) of low-molecular weight (LMW) iron dextran for treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in pregnancy: a randomized controlled trial. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2019;32:2214. doi:10.1080/14767058.2018.1429396
