Oral administration of ascorbic acid to horses

Area of Science:

• Equine Nutrition
• Animal Physiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is an essential nutrient for horses, playing a role in collagen synthesis and antioxidant defense.
• While horses can synthesize ascorbic acid, factors like stress or illness may increase requirements.
• Understanding optimal supplementation routes is crucial for maintaining equine health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of oral ascorbic acid supplementation on plasma concentrations in Thoroughbred horses.
• To compare the efficacy of single versus daily high-dose oral administration.
• To investigate potential monthly variations in plasma ascorbate levels.

Main Methods:

• Oral doses of ascorbic acid (4.5 g or 20 g) were administered to experimental and racing Thoroughbred horses.
• Plasma ascorbic acid concentrations were measured over time.
• Monthly variations in plasma ascorbate were assessed in supplemented and unsupplemented groups.

Main Results:

• A single 20 g oral dose did not significantly increase plasma ascorbic acid concentrations.
• Daily administration of 4.5 g or 20 g ascorbic acid resulted in significant increases in plasma concentrations.
• Monthly fluctuations in plasma ascorbate were observed in both supplemented and unsupplemented horses.

Conclusions:

• Oral supplementation with ascorbic acid is an effective method for increasing plasma and tissue concentrations in horses.
• Daily administration is superior to single doses for achieving elevated plasma levels.
• Further research may explore the implications of monthly variations on equine health.