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Even though horses are herbivores, some potentially beneficial plant constituents, such as phytophenols, are not found in the forages they typically consume.

Phytophenols are naturally derived, biologically active compounds found in many plant species. In humans, studies illustrate a clear-cut association between the consumption of phytophenols and the prevention of certain diseases. The phytophenol resveratrol generates a raft of bioactive benefits in humans, particularly antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective influences.

As an ingredient in nutritional supplements for horses, resveratrol is touted for its anti-inflammatory effects, despite little research underpinning these assertions. Researchers from the University of Missouri recently studied resveratrol to determine its effect on innate immune function in healthy mature horses.* Twelve horses were given resveratrol for three weeks. Following the supplementation period, whole blood was collected, and three measures of anti-inflammatory effects were gauged:

  • Phagocytosis: the ingestion of bacteria or other material by phagocytes, which are cells capable of engulfing and absorbing bacteria and other small cells and particles;
  • Oxidative burst: known also as respiratory burst, it is the rapid release of reactive oxygen species from various cells; and
  • Leukocyte cytokine production: certain white blood cells, specifically tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-1β.

The researchers found no significant difference in any of the three parameters measured between treated horses and control horses. While resveratrol did not show anti-inflammatory effects in this study, further studies are warranted for its other potential benefits, including antioxidant properties.

In the meantime, research-proven antioxidants are appropriate for horses, especially those that compete in athletic endeavors. Antioxidants may delay fatigue during exercise and encourage rapid recovery following exertion.

*Martin, L.M., P.J. Johnson, J.R. Amorim, and A.E. DeClue. 2020. Effects of orally administered resveratrol on TNF, IL-1β, leukocyte phagocytic activity and oxidative burst function in horses: Prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 21(4).

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