Folic acid

Mechanism

Folate acts as tetrahydrofolate in one-carbon transfer and is thus central to purine and pyrimidine synthesis, DNA formation and consequently to division-active tissues such as blood formation. In the horse the microbial synthesis of the hindgut flora (hindgut fermentation) and the folate content of fresh green forage contribute to the supply, so that requirements are usually met with healthy digestion and pasture access. Preserved forage shows lower folate contents, which is why the supply is discussed with a pure hay ration as well as in situations with increased requirements (high performance, pregnancy, growth). A benefit of supplementation beyond requirement balancing is not proven in the healthy, requirement-met horse.

Cautions

• · With healthy digestion and pasture access mostly met via microbial synthesis and green forage
• · No proven added benefit in the requirement-met horse; extra dosing does not replace a balanced ration

Sources