GROWTH FACTORS
Epithelial Growth Factor (EGF) is a protein substance that is instrumental in protecting and maintaining the skin. In 1983, researchers discovered that bovine colostrum contained EGF as part of a compound that also consisted of insulin-like growth factor I and transforming growth factors A & B. Although EGF alone can stimulate normal skin growth, it performs best when combined with IGF-1 and TGF A&B. Together they stimulate normal skin growth and repair cellular tissue.
Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) performs a helper function by increasing the binding ability of IGF-I by 60 to 70 percent.
Insulin-like Growth Factor I and II (IGF-I & IGF-II) are the most abundant growth factors in bovine colostrum. These proteins affect how the body uses fat, protein, and sugar; stimulate the immune system; and promote cell repair and growth. IGF-II is much more potent than its partner.
Because every cell in the body has a receptor for IGF-I, this growth factor can help each cell actively heal or reproduce. In particular, IGF-I is one of the few substances known that can stimulate the repair and growth of DNA and RNA, the all-important nucleic acids that are the "intelligence" of cells. DNA is the basis of heredity and contains the genetic information; RNA controls protein synthesis and carries messages to other cells in the body. These healing properties make IGF-I one of Nature's most powerful anti-aging substances.
Bodybuilders are interested in IGF-I because it can stimulate muscle growth and it does not promote fat storage. There is also evidence that IGF-I lowers LDL cholesterol levels (the "bad" cholesterol) and raises HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol), which can help prevent heart disease.
True to its name, IGF-I has an effect on insulin, which is good news to people who have diabetes. A 1990 study showed that IFG-I may be an effective alternative to insulin in the transport of glucose to muscle, thus serving as the acute treatment of hyperglycemia and, for some people, reducing the amount of insulin they need to take daily. These benefits do not apply to diabetics who are obese, however. IGF-I also benefits the immune system by stimulating production of T-cells.
Transforming Growth Factors A&B (TGF-A&B) stimulates proliferation of cells in connective tissue, assist in the formation of bone and cartilage, help repair tissue, and, according to one study, support the development of growth of the gut lining, which is important in leaky gut syndrome.
Other Components
Bovine colostrum also contains the antioxidants vitamins A and E as well as vitamin B12 and traces of all other vitamins. The mineral sulfur is also found in colostrum. Sulfur is involved in many bodily processes, including metabolism, tissue repair, and the making of collagen (the primary component of cartilage and connective tissue), new cells, and new tissue.