An Important Antioxidant To Include Within The Equine Diet

• VITAMIN E: Is the most well known antioxidant for horses. It is a fat-soluble vitamin and in all species, Vitamin E is important for normal function of the muscular, immune and neurological systems. The Vitamin E family comprises of 8 naturally occurring compounds which can be sub-divided into two groups, tocopherols and tocotrienols. Vitamin E is normally derived from the horse’s diet, particularly from fresh forages, however, supplementation may be required where the feed is not providing sufficient quantities. Moreover, horses may be at risk from free radical build-up due to the increased workload in training, racing and competition.

• VITAMIN C: Is an antioxidant that works with Vitamin E to reduce free radicals. Normally, it is produced in sufficient quantities given the presence of enzyme, L-gulonolactone oxidase, in the liver. That said, horses under stress from training and competition may have depleted plasma level of Vitamin C levels and therefore supplementation may be required to support immune function. As well as supporting the immune function, one of the most important functions of Vitamin C is its involvement in COLLAGEN formation. Vitamin C is essential for the formation and maintenance of Collagen, which is a protein and the main component of connective tissue. Other functions where Vitamin C is needed includes bone strength, antihistamine control, collagen synthesis as well as hormone synthesis.

• NATURAL POLYPHENOLS: Are a family of molecules with chemical structures and antioxidant capabilities similar to that of Vitamin E. These polyphenols work together with Vitamin E and C to provide a broader base of antioxidant support. In products like Recovery-7, we have used a mix of polyphenols from natural ingredients including Resveratrol, Curcurminoids and Rosemary Extracts. Resveratrol and Curcuminoids are natural compounds that can aid in reducing the inflammatory response.

• SELENIUM: Is a mineral that plays an important role in reducing free radicals. Selenium is a component of the enzyme glutathionine peroxidase, which prevents free radical peroxides from attacking cellular membranes. Complementing Vitamin E, it is an important element in supporting the integrity of cell membranes. By helping prevent lipid deterioration, which can lead to cell damage, selenium this plays a key role in maintaining a healthy animal. However, like so many things, levels of this mineral need to be managed as toxicity problems can occur where over-supplemented. Plusvital takes great care to ensure that where our supplements are used together that this situation is avoided.

Learn more about Plusvital’s full range of supplements here.