Effects of the colostrum-containing multi-nutrient dietary supplement on immune, muscle, bone, and cognitive function parameters in the elderly: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Aging leads to declines in immune function, muscle mass, bone density, and cognition. This 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of a colostrum-based dietary supplement (COL) in 80 participants aged 55–70 years. Primary outcomes included immune and inflammatory markers, while secondary outcomes assessed serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 levels, body composition values, bone turnover markers, cognitive function, and safety. The COL group showed significant increases in stool bovine IgG (MD = 2.75 μg/mL, p < 0.0001) and serum IGF-1 (MD = 10.30 ng/mL, p = 0.005), with trends toward higher serum human IgG and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels. Other parameters showed no significant changes. COL supplementation was well-tolerated, with no severe adverse events. These findings suggest that COL enhances immune resilience and supports anabolic processes, highlighting its potential to promote healthy aging and improve the quality of life in elderly individuals. • The colostrum-containing multi-nutrient dietary supplement (COL) promotes healthy aging. • COL increased stool IgG levels, indicating enhanced gastrointestinal passive immunity. • COL elevated serum IGF-1 levels, addressing the decline in growth factors in the elderly. • COL was well-tolerated, with mild, self-resolved gastrointestinal adverse events.