AMINO ACID DEFICIENCIES 

Horses are herbivores and should consume proteins from plant based substances only.  If a horse is deficient in any amino acid many problems can occur.  This is where we start. 

 

There are 9 Essential Amino Acids.  From these, other aminos are made in the body. 

There are three branched chain amino acids that work together and need to be balanced.  They are Isoleucine, Leucine and Valine. 

 

ISOLEUCINE (BCAA)

Needed for hemoglobin formation, stabilizes blood sugar and energy levels.  Also aids in the repair of muscle tissue.

Deficiencies can cause symptoms of hypoglycemia and low energy levels.

 

LEUCINE (BCAA)

Responsible for muscle growth and repair of muscle tissue.  Can lower elevated levels of blood sugar.  Should be taken in moderation and in balance with the other 2 branched chain amino acids, Isoleucine and Valine.

Deficiencies can cause

 

VALINE (BCAA)

Needed for muscle metabolism, nitrogen balance and tissue repair.  High doses of Valine can produce a stimulant effect and cause a skin crawling sensation.  It is important not to overdose and to balance with the other 2 branched chain aminos, Isoleucine and leucine.

Deficiencies can cause muscle wasting and lack of energy.

 

LYSINE

Horse feeds are generally deficient in this amino acid.  Choosing the right source of supplemental Lysine is important due to the fact that a lot of Lysine supplements are made from SUGAR!  Lysine helps the body absorb Calcium and to maintain the proper nitrogen balance. It also aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes.  Because it helps to build muscle and increases collagen production, it is great to supplement after injuries. 

Deficiencies can cause blood shot eyes, hair loss, lack of focus, irritability, lack of energy, change in appetite, and weight loss.

 

METHIONINE

Assists in the breakdown of fats and aids in overall digestion.  Aids in detoxifying the body, can protect against radiation, and is a powerful antioxidant.  Methionine helps the body to produce collagen which is necessary for healthy hoof growth, tendons and ligaments.  It promotes excretion of estrogen and can lower histamine levels.

Deficiencies can cause digestive problems, build up of toxins in the liver and kidney, brittle hooves, dull coat, tendon and ligament weakness.

 

PHENYLALININE

This amino can have a direct effect on brain chemistry.  Once in the body it is converted to Tyrosine which promotes altertness (dopamine and norepinephrine).  This amino can elevate mood, decrease pain and aid in memory or learning.  It also causes the body to sweat and contributes to the circulatory system.

Deficiencies can cause non-sweaters, heart trouble, difficulty in breathing, lack of focus.  Too much Phenylanine or Tyrosine can cause anxiety and panic attacks.  It is important to balance dopamine levels with seratonin levels.  (See Tryptophan)

 

THREONINE

Important for collagen formation, elastin, tooth enamel and helps to prevent fatty buildup in the liver.  Threonine also aids in immune function and can help in treating depression.

Deficiencies can cause low functioning immune system, liver problems, heart and nervous system problems.  Can also cause tendon and ligament weakness.

 

TRYPTOPHAN

Increases seratonin levels in the brain, relieving anxiety and depression.  It is also necessary for the production of B3 (niacin).  Sufficient amounts of B6,Vit. C, Folate and Magnesium are necessary for the formation of Tryptophan.

Deficiencies can cause extreme anxiety and panic.  Too much Tryptophan can cause the horse to become a non-sweater and cause circulatory problems. Seratonin levels should be balanced with Dopamine levels.  This is extremely important! 

HISTIDINE

Important for the growth and repair of tissues.  Protects the body from radiation and aids in removing heavy metals.  Very important for immune system function.

Deficiencies can cause contribute to arthritis.  Histidine levels that are too high can cause anxiety and or stress.