VITAMINS

Vitamins are a group of substances found in a number of vital processes in the body of the horse. These vitamins interact, among others, with another group of substances called enzymes. Most of the vitamins needed, the horse cannot produce itself and these must therefore be added to the diet. Here is a short summary of the most common vitamins.

Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an important role in the protection and generation of mucous membranes. It also affects fertility, metabolism, immune system and night vision.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D affects the calcium metabolism which is important for the normal development and maintenance of the skeleton. Under the influence of sunlight, the horse is able to self-produce vitamin D.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E prevent cells in the body from breaking down due to the influence of so-called free radicals, that is, substances formed during muscular activity. During this process, vitamin E interacts with selenium. Vitamin E is also promotes immune system function in the horse.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is seldom given as a supplement to horses. Some studies have shown vitamin C to have a certain function in the fertility of both stallions and mares.

Vitamin B
The vitamin B complex contains vitamins that affects the horse’s conversion of energy, production of red blood cells, production of important amino acids and nervous system functions. Most of the B complex vitamins are produced by microorganisms in the large intestine of the horse. A disturbance of the normal intestinal microflora owing to, for example, stress and/or surplus starch may cause of vitamin B deficiency.

Biotin
Biotin is part of a number of processes such as the metabolism of carbohydrates, fat and protein. It also plays an important role in the maintenance of the skin and mucosal surfaces. According to some studies, there is also a probable link between biotin and the hoof horn. Biotin is produced by the microorganisms in the large intestine.