Metabolic response of horses to a high soluble carbohydrate diet: effects of low-intensity submaximal exercise and sodium bicarbonate supplementation.

This research studies the metabolic response in horses fed a high soluble carbohydrate diet, with a focus on the effects of low-level exercise and sodium bicarbonate supplementation. The findings show that the addition of sodium bicarbonate significantly enhances certain metabolic parameters at rest and during submaximal exercise.

Design & Methodology

• The study employed a cross-over design involving four mares.
• They were fed a low fibre, high soluble carbohydrate diet at 1.7 times their maintenance energy requirement for mature work horses.
• The impact of dietary supplementation of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) was also assessed under daily low-intensity submaximal working conditions.
• The researchers monitored the physiological changes in the horses in response to the diet and exercise regimen.

Results

• No clinical abnormalities were recorded in the horses, indicating the diet was well-tolerated.
• The resting venous blood bicarbonate (HCO3), standard HCO3, and base excess (BE) concentrations significantly increased with NaHCO3 supplementation, demonstrating alteration in the horses’ metabolic profile.
• No significant changes in resting venous blood pH or carbon dioxide tension (PCO2) were observed.
• During low-intensity submaximal exercise, venous blood HCO3, standard HCO3, BE, hemoglobin, and heart rate significant increased and plasma lactate concentration decreased both in the control horses and those given NaHCO3.
• There were no significant changes in venous blood pH, PCO2, or plasma protein concentration during exercise, indicating exercise tolerance under the new diet and supplement regime.
• Horses given the NaHCO3 supplement showed significantly greater venous blood HCO3, standard HCO3, and BE concentrations during submaximal exercise.
• No significant differences in plasma lactate or total protein concentrations, blood pH, PCO2, or hemoglobin concentration were found between the two groups during exercise, confirming the non-discrepant physiological response between control and NaHCO3 supplemented group.

Conclusion

• The research demonstrates the metabolic adaptability of horses to a high soluble carbohydrate diet and low-intensity submaximal exercise with the addition of a sodium bicarbonate supplement.
• The supplementation appears to enhance certain metabolic parameters in the horses, under both resting and exercising conditions, potentially contributing positively to their overall metabolic health.
• However, further detailed investigation is required to more fully understand the physiological effects and possible benefits of this diet and sodium bicarbonate supplementation in horses.