Calcium propionate is an alkalizing agent in exercising Standardbreds

Area of Science:

• Equine physiology
• Exercise science
• Animal nutrition

Background:

• Standardbred horses undergo intense exercise, leading to metabolic changes.
• Alkalizing agents are explored to mitigate exercise-induced metabolic disturbances.
• Calcium propionate's effects on equine exercise metabolism require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if calcium propionate functions as an alkalizing agent in exercising Standardbreds.
• To determine the impact of calcium propionate on plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations during simulated racing conditions.
• To analyze alterations in total carbon dioxide (tCO2), calcium (Ca++), pH, and strong ion difference (SID) following calcium propionate administration.

Main Methods:

• A randomized crossover design was employed with eight Standardbred horses.
• Horses completed a simulated race test (SRT) on a high-speed treadmill.
• Blood samples were collected at multiple time points before, during, and after SRT for comprehensive analysis.

Main Results:

• Calcium propionate administration resulted in significantly higher plasma tCO2, bicarbonate, and Ca++ levels in horses compared to controls.
• Exercise (SRT) significantly decreased plasma pH, tCO2, Ca++, Na+, SID, and glucose, while increasing lactate.
• No significant treatment effects were observed on plasma pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, lactate, SID, glucose, or insulin concentrations.

Conclusions:

• Calcium propionate is confirmed as an alkalizing agent in horses.
• While it influences acid-base balance markers, calcium propionate does not alter plasma glucose or serum insulin during simulated racing.
• Further research may explore optimal dosages and long-term effects of calcium propionate in equine athletes.