ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: [endurance] Chemistry Question

Re: [endurance] Chemistry Question

Diane E. Nelson (nelsonde@ttown.apci.com)
Tue, 2 Apr 1996 09:49:41 -0500 (EST)

Before you decide to double any Vit. E/Se supplement, you really should
have a blood test for Se to find out what the base line is. Here in PA
we are also Se deficient in the soils. We do a blood test every year.
We typically supplement with about half the recommended dose for the
particular brand we are now using. That puts us in the low normal to
mid-normal range. I have found that too much Se causes hair loss and
general unthriftiness. Remember--Se is toxic in anything other than very
trace amounts.

As for the Vit. E--this is usually administered with Se because it
helps the body metabolize Se. Your assay indicates a rather low amount
of Vit. E based on the IU listed; however, Vit. E is also readily
available through the food chain. I have heard that you actually cannot
supplement artificial Vit. E in the quantities necessary--horses are
better able to secure the amount necessary for good nutrition from high
quality forage. Anyway, Vit. E isn't what you need to worry about. If
the feed company has developed a product designed to be the right balance
for your area, then stay within their guidelines AFTER you have confirmed
what YOUR horse's baseline is.

Diane @ Safe Haven