Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is an essential molecule composed of a sugar (ribose), a nitrogenous base (adenine), and three phosphate groups. One of the main sites of ATP production in the body is the mitochondria. The importance of ATP lies in its role as the primary source of chemical energy in living matter, often referred to as the “energy currency” for intracellular energy transfer. Its function is to store and release energy as needed, acting as an energy reservoir activated during cellular demands. For the energy contained in the ATP molecule to be released, hydrolysis occurs, breaking the molecule into ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and a phosphate group, releasing free energy in the process. ATP is fundamental in providing the necessary energy for muscle contraction, making it indispensable for the proper performance of horses during exercise. Supplementing with ATP before competitions can provide ready-to-use energy, enhancing the performance of athletic horses and improving competition results.
Horses engaged in intense workout routines, such as athletic horses, are predisposed to oxidative stress. This condition arises from an imbalance between oxidative and antioxidative systems, potentially causing injuries to muscle fibers and genetic material, as well as muscular fatigue. To ensure a healthier life for your horse, it’s essential to understand what oxidative stress is, how it works, and the main ways to prevent it. Continue with us in this following article to learn more! What is Oxidative Stress? During cellular respiration, not all oxygen that reaches the cell is converted into CO₂ and H₂O. As a result, oxidation of these cells begins, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), also known as free radicals. Although ROS are normally generated during cellular processes, their production can increase under certain conditions. Such as diseases, pregnancy, stress, and aging. This particularly occurs when horses are under intensive workout routines or participating in competitions. Oxidative stress occurs when there is greater production of ROS than the capacity to neutralize or eliminate them. This imbalance can result from excessive production or failures in the neutralization systems of these molecules. In a healthy organism, it’s vital to maintain a balance between the production and elimination of ROS, as they can interact with proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, causing damage to cellular structures. Prevention against reactive oxygen species (ROS) There are some mechanisms to eliminate reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing oxidative stress. These mechanisms can be divided into two components: the endogenous and exogenous antioxidant systems. The endogenous antioxidant system consists of enzymatic and non-enzymatic components. The enzymatic system includes enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. While the non-enzymatic system comprises antioxidants like glutathione, myoglobin, ferritin, metalloproteins, coenzyme Q10, polyamines, melatonin, transferrin, and ceruloplasmin. Exogenous antioxidants are substances found in the diet, such as carotenoids, vitamin E, and vitamin C. Supplementation can significantly improve these antioxidant capacities, helping to reduce damage caused by ROS. For example, vitamin E is one of the most commonly included ingredients in equine supplements because it is the only antioxidant capable of interrupting the chain reaction of lipid peroxidation. Other antioxidants that support the prevention of oxidative stress in horses include: Selenium: Essential for the functioning of glutathione peroxidase, one of the most important enzymes in the endogenous antioxidant system. Vitamin C: A water-soluble antioxidant that acts as an electron donor, functioning as a reducing agent. It enhances the action of vitamin E, which is vital for regenerating this and other antioxidants from their oxidized forms. Vitamin C is the most abundant non-enzymatic antioxidant in the lungs. Antiox E-C Selenium: Learn More About Organnact Supplements Incorporating antioxidants into horse’s diets is crucial for maintaining their health and performance. Antioxidants play a critical role in neutralizing ROS, preventing cellular damage that can compromise muscle health, aiding in post-exercise recovery, and contributing to the overall well-being of horses. During periods of high metabolic demand, such as competition season, relying on a complete and high-quality supplement is fundamental. Organnact Antiox E-C Selenium is a supplement that combines the action of three powerful antioxidants to not only prevent oxidative stress in horses but also to extend their longevity and optimize their performance.
Horses are classified as monogastric herbivores. When free-ranging, they spend 16 to 18 hours a day grazing, with brief intervals for social interaction and rest, in line with their adapted anatomy and physiology for this natural behavior. However, changes in management, diet type, space restriction, and sporting activities have altered this natural behavior, leading to a range of issues in horse husbandry, including increased incidence of gastrointestinal disorders. The horse’s stomach is relatively small, with a capacity ranging from 7.5 to 15 liters. Which makes it smaller when compared to subsequent parts of the digestive tract, including a well-developed large intestine. The stomach contents are stratified in layers with continuous and variable secretion of hydrochloric acid, and gastric emptying occurs continuously at a rate that varies with the contents. Learn more about equine gastric health Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) refers to any stomach disease often caused by increased acid exposure (pH < 4). Factors such as stress, dietary management, and genetic predisposition increase the risk of EGUS. Clinical signs include poor body condition, behavioral abnormalities like nervousness or aggressiveness, reduced appetite, and occasional mild to moderate intermittent colic. Besides impacting overall health and well-being, gastric ulcers can also affect athletic performance. Treating gastric ulcers is costly and often requires extended periods, underscoring the importance of both short and long-term prevention strategies. Management approaches include pharmacological interventions as well as environmental strategies like reducing exercise-related stress and dietary adjustments. Nutrition is the key! Various foods show potential benefits for equine gastric health: Alfalfa hay: whether provided alone or with concentrates, can have a protective and anti-ulcer effect in horses, aiding in stomach acid buffering; Rice bran: contains fibers and gamma oryzanol (GO). Which potentially inhibit gastric acid secretion and protect gastrointestinal mucosa through powerful antioxidant activity; Probiotics: are live microorganisms administered to improve intestinal health and balance gut microbiota, competing against potentially harmful organisms. Studies suggest probiotics hold promise as prophylactic agents against gastric ulcers in horses. Beta-glucans, soluble fibers, can act as gastric linings and stimulate the immune system; Aloe Vera: possesses anti-inflammatory properties and aids in wound healing. Known for its cytoprotective effects and mucosal stimulation, it effectively protects the GI tract against ulcers and other disorders when used as a dietary supplement for horses. Licorice exhibits anti-acid and anti-spasmodic activities, promoting stomach mucosal secretion and cell regeneration. While rosemary offers antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. The use of supplements containing ingredients beneficial for gastric health emerges as crucial in addressing EGUS. Supporting not only equine stomach health but also promoting overall health, well-being, and athletic performance. That’s why Organnact has Gastro Equi Pellets, a dietary supplement specially developed to provide a better gastric health to your horses. Click here and learn more about Organnact’s supplements!
