The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus type 2 is in itself associated with some pathological changes in the body.  Lactoferrin has been shown to have a positive influence on these. Chronic inflammatory processes in the body are also involved. Measurably increased values of pro-inflammatory messengers in the blood are seen as risk factors, as well as a reflection of the existing disease [1,2].

One of the specific risk factors is insulin resistance. 

Insulin resistance means that the cells of insulin-dependent tissue are less sensitive to insulin. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin and hyperinsulinemia (high blood insulin) occurs. If this continues long-term, there is a risk that the β-cells of the pancreas down-regulate their function and produce too little insulin.  

In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that lactoferrin improves the insulin sensitivity of cells, even with existing insulin resistance [3,4].

If insulin resistance persists, too little glucose is absorbed by the cells and the glucose level in the blood remains high (hyperglycaemia).

An increased blood glucose level can be both a triggering, and an amplifying factor of chronic inflammation, thereby promoting disease progression [5].

In animal experiments, oral administration of lactoferrin was seen to reduce weight gain, reduce visceral fat levels and regulate blood sugar levels as well as leptin and lipid levels [6].  Sugars interact with Lactoferrin by using binding sites located on the C-lobe of the lactoferrin molecule [7].

In a 2016 study, Lactoferrin was administered to overweight mice.  Glucose metabolism was regulated by the positive modulation of the microbiome and the reduction of inflammation [8].

Taken as a whole, lactoferrin has shown good antidiabetic effects, in vivo and in vitro [9]. 

Also interesting is a demonstrated synergistic effect with metformin, one of the most important drugs in the treatment of type 2 diabetes [10].

In 2018, a study of paediatric patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 also showed an antidiabetic effect of lactoferrin in humans [11]. The study measurements showed a significant improvement in HbA1c (a long-term marker of sugar presence in the blood), body mass index and lipid status (blood fat values).

In addition to the insulin-sensitising effect, an anti-inflammatory effect could also be detected here via a reduction in the pro-inflammatory messengers. 

The antidiabetic effectiveness of lactoferrin can be explained by the improvement of blood sugar levels and fat metabolism, along with the anti-inflammatory component.

The authors suggest regular intake of lactoferrin in type 2 diabetes could ensure better blood glucose control compared to conventional antidiabetic medications alone. 

Lactoferrin presents the possibility of a natural and safe intervention in the prophylaxis and therapy of metabolic disorders in general [11].