Human breast milk (HBM) is a complex biological fluid containing a wide range of bioactive compounds, including lactoferrin, human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), immunoglobulins, cytokines, growth factors, extracellular vesicles, and antioxidant enzymes. These components are well established for their essential role in infant growth and immune development. Increasing scientific interest has focused on the translational potential of these lactogenic bioactive compounds as nutraceutical agents for adult health, particularly in men. Emerging evidence suggests that these bioactive constituents possess immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, antioxidant, and regenerative properties that may offer therapeutic benefits beyond infancy. This narrative review evaluates the biochemical mechanisms, physiological pathways, and clinical implications of HBM-derived bioactive compounds in adult male health. Their potential roles in immune regulation, gastrointestinal balance, metabolic syndrome management, wound healing, infection control, and oxidative stress reduction are critically examined. Available adult clinical studies on isolated lactoferrin, HMOs, and milk-derived exosomes are analysed to assess their translational relevance. A conceptual framework is proposed to integrate mechanistic insights with emerging clinical evidence. Ethical considerations, regulatory challenges, and safety aspects associated with donor milk–derived and purified formulations are also discussed. Although promising mechanistic and preliminary clinical data support their nutraceutical potential, further well-designed randomised controlled trials are required to validate efficacy, dosage, and long-term safety in adult populations.
Naqvi et al. (Mon,) studied this question.