In the world of equine nutrition, the importance of amino acids as essential components for the health and well-being of horses has become increasingly recognized. More and more, we understand that targeted amino acid supplementation plays a key role in performance, appearance, and overall health. In this blog post, we explore why amino acids are so important for horses and how they work.
What Are Amino Acids?
Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as building blocks for proteins. There are 20 different amino acids crucial to the horse’s body. Some of these can be synthesized by the body, while others - known as essential amino acids - must be obtained through diet. Especially in hay- and grain-based feeding regimens, it is difficult to supply sufficient essential amino acids. As science shows, the first limiting amino acids for horses are, in order: lysine, threonine, and methionine.
The Role of Amino Acids in Equine Nutrition
Amino acids are involved in a wide range of bodily functions:
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Muscle Development and Maintenance: Amino acids are crucial for building and repairing muscle tissue. Horses in training or rehabilitation require adequate amino acid intake to prevent muscle loss and promote recovery.
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Skin and Coat Health: Certain amino acids help maintain a shiny coat and strong, healthy skin, especially important for horses with dermatological issues.
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Immune System Support: Amino acids contribute to a strong immune system, making horses more resilient to various illnesses. A large portion of immune cells and antibodies are composed of amino acids.
Why Is Supplementation Necessary?
Many horses, particularly those on hay- or grass-based diets, do not receive adequate levels of essential amino acids. This can lead to deficiencies that manifest as poor muscle tone, dull coat, and decreased performance. Supplementing with amino acids ensures that horses receive the needed nutrients in both quantity and quality. Amino acids also improve the utilization of dietary protein, bringing us to the next point.
How Do Amino Acid Supplements Work?
Amino acid supplements like our Amino Horse Basismix provide a balanced blend of pure essential amino acids. These are efficiently absorbed by the body and transported directly to the areas where they are needed, for example: muscle protein synthesis.
If essential amino acids are missing, protein breakdown products are diverted into the energy metabolism, ultimately being excreted as urea - placing a strain on the liver and kidneys. Supplementing essential amino acids improves protein utilization. This is a concept long applied in livestock nutrition that is now gaining traction in the equine world.
Amino Horse – Optimally Formulated for Your Horse
The unique formulation of Amino Horse was developed to complement your horse’s diet and enhance both its health and performance.
Supplementing with amino acids is a key element of a balanced equine diet. It not only improves performance and appearance but also provides foundational support for your horse’s overall well-being. With Amino Horse, you ensure that your horse receives the vital support it needs to stay active and healthy.
