What is tryptophan for Horses?
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid in the diet of all horses. Vital for normal sleep and mood patterns this amino acid is needed as a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Tryptophan is needed to synthesise nicotinic acid or niacin (vitamin B3). In horses, deficiencies cause poor skin pigmentation, poor digestion, and brittle hooves.
There are good levels in grass and legume forages like alfalfa. Soya products and barley also contain useful levels.
Why is tryptophan important for horses?
Tryptophan plays a role in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can affect mood and behavior. Some studies suggest that levels of the neurotransmitter precursor amino acids, including tryptophan, might influence mood and behavior in horses.
In terms of exercise and performance, it has been found that if tryptophan levels are high enough, it can cause fatigue in horses. However, this fatigue related to the levels of tryptophan normally generated can be overridden by glucose. In one study, infusion of tryptophan into exercising horses was found to lower their time to fatigue. However, infusion of glucose significantly increased the time to fatigue without changing the levels of fatty acids mobilised, and this occurred despite the increased tryptophan caused by exercise.
Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by Forageplus Team
