lactoferrin

Lactoferrin
is a natural milk glycoprotein that supports the immune system and provides increased protection against disease-causing microorganisms. Each molecule of the lactoferrin protein can bind to two atoms of iron, and since many pathogenic bacteria need iron for their development, lactoferrin stops their spread, making iron unavailable to them. It is particularly effective in blocking multiplication in microorganisms that often cause serious illness in babies, including Staphylococcus aureus. Lactoferrin also disrupts the process by which bacteria digest carbohydrates, thereby limiting their growth. It also binds to vitamin B12, depriving microorganisms of it as well.