Vitamin B for horses

The body of horses cannot function properly without sufficient vitamin B. It is particularly important for the energy metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. This is necessary for growth and physical performance. Under normal circumstances and with good nutrition, additional administration of vitamin B is not necessary. Because vitamin B is a water-soluble vitamin, the body cannot store reserves, but also cannot be overdosed. In addition, vitamin B consists of different types of vitamin B: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B11), and cobalamin (B12).

Vitamin B

Vitamin

Energy metabolism (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates)

• Necessary for growth

• Thiamine B1

Vitamin B1 ensures that carbohydrates are converted into energy, so that various processes such as muscles and nerves can function properly. It also plays a role in heart conditions. Vitamin B1 is not produced by the horse's body itself and must be obtained through its diet. A deficiency of vitamin B1 can cause an increase in lactic acid in the muscles because a deficiency increases the pyruvic acid level in the blood. Pyruvic acid is converted into lactic acid, which causes muscle acidosis. A horse with a vitamin B1 deficiency will therefore acidify more quickly during training.

But did you know that thiamine is also thought to be insect-repellent? The theory is that a horse supplemented with thiamine emits a scent that repels mosquitoes. However, this has not yet been scientifically proven.

Niacin B3

Niacin is also a water-soluble vitamin. It is converted in the intestines into enzymes needed for energy metabolism. It improves energy balance. It is also necessary for the synthesis of various hormones such as insulin and cortisol. It also plays an important role in the formation of red blood cells. In humans, it is used for high cholesterol levels in the blood, mental disorders, cataracts, and diabetes.

Pyridoxine B6

Vitamin B6 is needed for the metabolism of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They are needed for the building and recovery of muscle mass. In addition, vitamin B6 is needed to convert carbohydrates and lipids into energy. It has an effect on the immune system, muscle cramps, arthritis, and allergies.

Folic acid B11

Almost everyone knows that folic acid plays an important role in pregnancy. This is also the case in horses. A deficiency of folic acid (B11) can cause miscarriages, but also provides positive support for the growth of the embryo. But that is not the only function of vitamin B11. It is also important for the formation of red blood cells and the metabolism of homocysteine. Homocysteine is an intermediate in the conversion of the amino acid methionine into the amino acid cysteine. An increased level of homocysteine increases the risk of heart and vascular diseases.