fibroblast growth factor

ProteinGrowth factorBest taken away from food

What is it

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) is a family of signaling proteins involved in cell growth, tissue repair, and angiogenesis. In supplements, the label often refers to FGF as a constituent of colostrum or other animal-derived ingredients rather than a recombinant pharmaceutical.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Tissue repair claims (oral)

Mixed Evidence

Oral FGF claims lack support from absorption studies. Most peptides are digested.

How it works

FGFs are large proteins (around 17 to 34 kDa) that act through receptor tyrosine kinases on target cells. In supplements, intact FGF protein from oral colostrum or animal-derived sources is largely digested in the gut and would not reach systemic circulation in active form. Pharmaceutical FGFs are studied for wound healing and tissue repair but are administered topically or by injection, not orally.

Dosage

There is no validated oral FGF dose. Colostrum supplement claims about FGF content reflect natural occurrence, not active delivery.

When and how to take it

Most colostrum-based products are taken on an empty stomach.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Component of colostrum or other proteins

Listed in some colostrum products as a natural constituent.

Digested to amino acids in gut.

Safety

Oral animal-source FGF at supplement levels is generally safe. Concerns about FGF and cancer growth pertain to systemic pharmacological doses, not oral supplements.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in active cancer or hormone-sensitive conditions out of theoretical caution.

Interactions

No documented interactions for oral supplemental FGF at typical doses.

Frequently asked questions

Does oral FGF reach my tissues?⌄

Intact FGF protein does not survive digestion in meaningful amounts.

Why is FGF on my supplement label?⌄

Usually as a marketing claim about colostrum or animal-derived ingredient content.

References

fibroblast growth factor on Wikidata — Wikidata link

fibroblast growth factor on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on fibroblast growth factor (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.