Vitamins are one of the six general
groups of nutrients needed by horses and other animals. The other
groups are water, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and minerals.
Vitamins are carbon-containing compounds that are needed in
relatively small amounts (mg or ug) by the body to support normal
metabolism.
Metabolism involves the breakdown and formation of molecules
within the body. Vitamins cannot be synthesized within the body in
sufficient amounts, so they must be supplied in the diet. Vitamins
are classified into two groups according to their solubility in
either water or fat. The B-complex vitamins and Vitamin C, which
function in the watery areas, are called water-soluble vitamins.
Vitamins that function in the fatty tissues are labeled
fat-soluble. They include vitamins A, D, E and K. Solubility
influences a vitamin's mode of action, storage capability and
toxicity. Vitamin C and the B-vitamins, except B12, are not stored
in the body. They enter the body, are present in intra-cellular
and extra-cellular fluids and are excreted in the urine without
much modification within about 24 hours.
Water-soluble vitamins are not considered to be toxic. Fat-soluble
vitamins A and D are stored in the liver and can be viewed as
hormones, since they are produced in one location and function in
another location. They are not as easily absorbed as water-soluble
vitamins and can be toxic if over-consumed.
Vitamin E and the vitamin A precursor, beta-carotine, are stored
in fat tissue and are not considered to be toxic. Vitamin K is a
coenzyme that has both water-soluble and fat-soluble varieties. It
is necessary for the proper formation of blood clots, which
prevent bleeding.
Large amounts of vitamins cannot make horses faster or better at
their respective sports. However, less than optimal amounts of
vitamins can limit performance.
For More
Information e-mail at
AN.EquineHelp@adm.com
or call toll free
EQUINE
NUTRITION HELPLINE
1-800-680-8254
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ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc.
1000 North 30th Street P.O. Box C1 Quincy, IL USA 62305-3155
