The Impact of Lactoferrin and Iron-Enriched Whey on Iron Absorption, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, And Menstrual Health in Women

Author

Mia Dustin, Utah State University

Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Departmental Honors

Department

Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences

Abstract

Iron is an essential trace mineral involved in oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and cellular function, yet deficiency remains prevalent among women of reproductive age. In the U.S., approximately 20% of women aged 18-45 years fail to meet daily iron requirements due to lack of iron consumption in the diet, menstrual blood loss, or intense exercise, often leading to anemia, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. While ferrous sulfate is a common form of iron supplementation, it frequently causes gastrointestinal discomfort. Researchers have explored lactoferrin, a glycoprotein with immune and iron-binding properties, as an adjunct to traditional supplementation. This study examines the effects of lactoferrin and iron supplementation within a whey protein matrix on iron absorption markers, inflammation, and self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms in physically active women. Eighty women, aged 18-35 years, who exercised 3 to 12 times per week for 30 minutes to 3 hours per session at moderate to vigorous intensity, participated in a randomized clinical trial. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: a lactoferrin-enriched whey protein drink with iron and B12, a lactoferrin-enriched rice protein drink with iron and B12, or a maltodextrin-based drink with lactoferrin, iron, and B12. Supplements were taken twice daily for 16 weeks. Blood samples were collected at baseline and post-intervention to measure HbA1c, iron markers, hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell count (RBC), hematocrit (Hct), inflammatory markers, and basic metabolic panels. Weekly surveys tracked gastrointestinal symptoms, while dietary intake and menstrual patterns were assessed at weeks one, eight, and sixteen. The primary hypothesis was that participants consuming the lactoferrin-enriched whey drink would demonstrate greater improvements in iron status. Serum ferritin served as the primary endpoint, while secondary measures included Hb, RBC, and Hct. Data analysis compared iron status, inflammatory markers, and gastrointestinal symptoms across groups. Research is ongoing, and findings will determine whether lactoferrin supplementation improves iron status while minimizing side effects.

Recommended Citation

Dustin, Mia, "The Impact of Lactoferrin and Iron-Enriched Whey on Iron Absorption, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, And Menstrual Health in Women" (2025). Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects. 1016.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/honors/1016