Serum retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and alpha-tocopherol of racing trotters in Finland.

This study assesses the levels of retinol, various forms of Vitamin D and alpha-tocopherol in the blood of racing trotters in Finland, and discusses implications for health and feeding practices.

Objective of the research

• The primary aim of the study was to measure and understand the serum levels of retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, and alpha-tocopherol in racing trotters based in Finland. These chemicals are vital nutrients for horses, contributing to their general health and racing performance.

Methodology

• Blood samples were taken from 142 Standardbred and Finnish Coldblooded Trotters between the ages of three and 15 years. These samples were collected during two distinct periods – January and July – to account for potential seasonal variations.
• The researchers used high-performance liquid chromatography, a technique that separates and measures components in a mixture, to determine the serum levels of retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, and alpha-tocopherol in the collected blood samples.

Findings

• The study found that the serum levels of retinol and alpha-tocopherol in these horses were about a third of those found in humans.
• The levels of these nutrients increased during the summer months in most of the horses. However, the levels remained relatively low, suggesting that during the winter months, these horses may experience a deficiency of these particular vitamins.
• There were significant differences between the serum levels found in horses from different stables, particularly in the case of alpha-tocopherol. These differences likely reflect variances in the quality of feed provided and feeding practices adopted by the stables.

Implications and conclusion

• These findings indicate that in colder climates (such as Finland), horses may be at risk of nutrient deficiency during winter, particularly in relation to retinol and alpha-tocopherol.
• The study also points towards the importance of quality feed and a well-managed feeding regimen in maintaining the levels of these necessary nutrients in race horses.