Written by Margaret (Maggie) Prosser, BS, CPT

ARMRA seems to be all over my Instagram feed. We previously mentioned ARMRA Colostrum on our podcast in July, Episode 87: “Everything You Need to Know About Breastfeeding,” with guest Cara Mowery, RD, IBLC. If podcasts aren’t your thing, check out our supplement review below.

What is colostrum?

Colostrum is a highly dynamic milk produced by mothers of dairy animals (including humans) after childbirth for about five days. Bovine colostrum has a higher protein and fat contents than mature milk. The composition of bovine mature milk is higher in carbohydrates. Colostrum contains a high concentration of immune factors including immunoglobulins, oligosaccharides, insulin-like growth factors, and cytokines. Mowery stated, “For a baby specifically, [these immune factors] are coating the stomach to protect it against pathogens.” We don’t particularly need these added immune factors in a supplement because our bodies grow immunity through previous infections, vaccinations, food antigens, and inhaled antigens as we age.

What is ARMRA Colostrum?

ARMRA Colostrum was created by Sarah Rahal, MD, in 2019. ARMRA is a bovine breastmilk made in the first 48 to 72 hours after giving birth with removed casein (a protein found in milk) and fat with no other additives. They claim to sustainably source their colostrum from grass-fed, hormone- and antibiotic-free cows raised on family owned, U.S. dairy farms. The company states ARMRA “protects, rebuilds, and strengthens your body’s barriers for defense against everyday threats and enhanced vitality.” They add their product reverses wrinkles, stimulates hair growth, builds stronger lean muscles, and improves cognitive performance.

The supplement facts on ARMRA’s packaging include less than one gram of protein and carbohydrates with one gram of “Proprietary ARMRA Bovine Colostrum.” Proprietary blends can be misleading. Dietary supplements do not have to list what is in their blends because there is no governing body that approves the accuracy of labels prior to selling. ARMRA Colostrum is not an FDA-approved product, although they use FDA-certified facilities to produce their product and employ third-party testing.

ARMRA’S website has a science tab presenting the research studies used to back the product. The company claims, “thousands of published research studies attest to the benefits of colostrum for health.” While thousands of studies may show the benefits of human colostrum for human infants, that does not mean this product has been trialed in thousands of studies. The researchers within the company compiled their “best” research to show the public. This research consists of hand-picked findings that do not reflect the general findings of clinical trials. Weaknesses in the studies include small sample sizes and observational data instead of randomized clinical trials.

Is it really “the revival of your health”?

Let’s weigh the risk versus benefits. I agree with Mowery and Garcia – the economic risk is bigger than the potential benefit. Is colostrum going to hurt you? No, there is little likelihood that this supplement will have much impact on your health at all. To reiterate, colostrum is for newborns that have immature immune defense.

Does ARMRA Colostrum relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms?

Research studies included on ARMRA’s website, and my personal research do not show a link between bovine colostrum consumption and IBS symptom relief. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an array of diseases that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two most common IBDs are Chron’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Siddhi Bagwe-Parab's cited review focused on colostrum’s beneficial impact on lowering infants’ incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and neonatal sepsis. Mother’s first milk lays a foundation for infants' immunity throughout their life. Human breast-fed infants had a lower likelihood of developing gastrointestinal disorders later in life due to a sufficient immune system. Adults and IBS were not included in this review.

What habits can you practice to protect your immune system?

Focus on hydration, adequate amount of sleep, regular physical activity, and proper nutrition. Some vitamins and minerals that can boost your immune system naturally include zinc, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and iron. There is no quick fix to a strong immune system. Keep up with healthy habits and you’ll have a less likely chance of getting sick. I have listed foods containing high amounts of these vitamins and minerals. Through the links you can find complete lists.

Zinc: oysters, meat, poultry, crab, lobster, oats, pumpkin seeds (pepitas),

Vitamin C: red peppers, oranges, Brussels sprouts, strawberries

Vitamin B6: chickpeas, tuna, sockeye salmon, chicken breast, potatoes, bananas

Iron: Fortified breakfast cereals, spinach, beef, tofu, white beans, liver, broccoli

Final Thoughts

Stick to the basics. Don’t underestimate a colorful plate full of lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. If you do decide to try ARMRA, be sure to mention it to your doctor to ensure there are no interactions with any medications you are taking.

For more ideas on weight loss and wellness, check out the rest of our blog posts!

References

ARMRA Colostrum. Available at: https://tryarmra.com/. Accessed February 13, 2024.

Bagwe-Parab S, Yadav P, Kaur G, Tuli HS, Buttar HS. Therapeutic applications of human and bovine colostrum in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and distinctive cancer types: the current evidence. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:01100. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01100

Jensen GS. Biological activities of a novel bovine colostrum-based propietary concentrate, ARMRA, at the cellular level. ARMRA Colostrum. Accessed February 13, 2024. https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0291/1564/6027/files/Biological_activities_of_a_novel_bovine_colostrum-based_proprietary_concentrate_ARMRA_at_the_cellular_level_Gitte_S._2021_1_1.pdf?v=1640717011

Playford RJ, Weiser MJ. Bovine colostrum: Its constituents and uses. Nutrients. 2021;13(1):265. doi: 10.3390/nu13010265

Puppel K, Gołębiewski M, Grodkowski G, et al. Composition and factors affecting quality of bovine colostrum: A review. Animals. 2019;9(12):1070. doi:10.3390/ani9121070

Simon AK, Hollander GA, McMichael A. Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age. Proc Biol Sci. 2015;282(1821). doi: 10.1098/rspb.2014.3085

U.S. Anti-Doping Agency. Available at: https://www.usada.org/athletes/substances/supplement-connect/reduce-risk-testing-positive-experiencing-adverse-health-effects/third-party-testing-guidance/#:~:text=Why%20is%20third%2Dparty%20certification,they%20are%20sold%20to%20consumers. Accessed February 13, 2024.