Folic acid, also known as folate or vitamin B9 has a role to play in DNA synthesis, protein metabolism and a cofactor for the neurotransmitters; serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine. Folic acid is important for the synthesis of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a simple gas important in insulin signaling and blood flow. For this reason folic acid is included in HoofXtra vitamin and mineral mix along with the other B vitamins important for insulin signalling and blood flow (nitric acid) – pyridoxine and biotin.
Dr Eleanor Kellon VMD “Folic acid deficiency can be related to some drugs, notably trimethoprim, pyrimethamine, methotrexate, Dilantin and other anticonvulsants.”
Highest natural sources are grass and hay, ranging from 2.5 to 4 mg/kg DM whilst grains are a poor source, less than 1 mg/kg DM. Microbial fermentation produces all the B vitamins.
For horses on a high workload with limited grass and hay that may be deficient, Dr Kellon has recommended up to 25 mg/day.
Horses that are insulin resistant IR/EMS, 10 – 20 mg/day is considered reasonable along with pyridoxine and biotin.
Folic acid is a nutritional supplement product for inclusion in horse’s feed. Product has no therapeutic effect and is designed to be administered in a feed for voluntary ingestion for horses.
Animal consumption only.