Metabolic Syndrome is, by definition, a combination of different risk factors that favour the development of severe, chronic diseases. At least three out of the five risk factors below must be present for a diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome [1]:

Interestingly, lactoferrin with its multiple functions can influence individual components of Metabolic Syndrome.  One of these is the regulation of carbohydrate and fat metabolism.  Lactoferrin can have a positive impact on the development of insulin resistance and high blood pressure, as well as on the formation of fat cells, inflammatory processes and other endocrine factors [2]. 

It has been shown that lactoferrin was able to reduce lipid peroxidation present with high cholesterol levels, significantly reducing the resultant oxidative stress [3]. 

The accumulation of visceral fat is one of the risk factors for Metabolic Syndrome.  It promotes the development of insulin resistance associated with high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure and problems with fat metabolism (dyslipidaemia).  The influence of lactoferrin on fat metabolism, and specifically on the formation of visceral fat, was investigated in a study by Ono, et al. [4]. 

In this double-blind placebo-controlled study, overweight male & female participants were given 300 mg of lactoferrin daily, over a period of eight weeks.

After the eight weeks, a significant reduction in the visceral fat quantity was measured.

In addition, participants were able to significantly reduce their body weight, body mass index (BMI) and hip circumference. 

Based on the findings of various animal studies, the underlying mechanism is thought to be the ability of lactoferrin to bind lipopolysaccharides [5].  The inhibitory effect of lactoferrin on the maturation of fat cells (adipocytes) has also been examined [5,6]. Hofmann et al. describe how lactoferrin regulates the transport of fat into the visceral fat cells, thus blocking postprandial (after eating) fat uptake [7].

The study described above by Ono et al. showed that lactoferrin, without additional lifestyle changes, can reduce visceral fat [4]. And, as in other human studies, without any undesirable side effects. 

A promising direction for further research and innovative therapeutic approaches.