This webinar and clinical panel discussion explores lactoferrin—a multifunctional regulatory protein found in breast milk—and how effera™, the first human-equivalent lactoferrin, is reshaping clinical approaches to gut health, immune support, iron regulation, and nutrient absorption.

Food scientist Laura Katz, will introduce the concept of human bioactive compounds, explain lactoferrin’s mechanisms of action, and share new clinical findings on effera™.

Linda Alvarez, MD, and Pratik Patel, MS, RD, CSCS, will share their clinical perspectives on how this single, bioadaptive molecule can benefit patients suffering from nutrient deficiencies caused by life stage transitions (pregnancy, menopause), autoimmune conditions, or high-demand physical training—as well as the growing number of patients on GLP-1 agonist drugs.

Learn how clinicians are using biologically equivalent ingredients to support the overall health and wellbeing of their patients. 

SPONSORED BY Helaina™, Creators of effera™ Human Lactoferrin

Learning Objectives:

• Understand lactoferrin’s physiological roles and clinical potential through real-world case studies.
• Compare bovine and human-equivalent lactoferrin, with a focus on effera’s™ bioavailability, tolerability, efficacy, and clinical relevance.
• Explore how lactoferrin supports micronutrient absorption in patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists.
• Identify opportunities for use across a range of women’s health, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal conditions.
• Learn how bioactive compounds from breast milk may offer benefits across the lifespan, particularly for women’s health.

Featured Speakers:

Laura Katz,
Founder & CEO, Helaina
A food scientist and biotech entrepreneur, Laura leads Helaina, the first company to commercialize human-equivalent bioactive compounds through precision fermentation. After hearing a podcast on the black market for human breast milk, she developed effera™, the world’s first clinically studied human-equivalent lactoferrin, and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 for her work in food innovation.

Linda Alvarez, MD
Co-founder, Levelle Nutrition
A family physician and Cornell MBA, Dr. Alvarez is an advocate for equitable access to nutrition, especially in women’s and sports health. She co-founded Levelle Nutrition to advance female-focused endurance nutrition and speaks widely on plant-based medicine and holistic performance.

Pratik Patel, MS, RD, CSCS
Performance Coach & Nutrition Strategist
Formerly Director of Performance Nutrition for the New York Giants, Pratik blends functional nutrition, recovery science, and health coaching. With first hand clinical experience in prescribing colostrum and lactoferrin to patients with iron overload, gut dysfunction, and injury, Pratik advises elite athletes and clinical teams on functional nutrition in athletic performance and metabolic health.