Introduction: Understanding Vitamin C and its Role in Horse Health

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient for horses, just as it is for humans. It is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Horses, like most mammals, are unable to synthesize their own Vitamin C, which means they need to obtain the nutrient through their diet.

Vitamin C is involved in numerous biological processes in horses, including the formation of collagen, the absorption of iron, and the functioning of the immune system. A deficiency in Vitamin C can significantly impact a horse’s health, leading to a range of problems such as joint pain, weakness, and increased susceptibility to infections.

What is Vitamin C and What Does it Do in Horses?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps to neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues. In horses, it has multiple roles, including the formation of collagen, which is essential for the health of connective tissue such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Vitamin C also helps with iron absorption, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells, and supports the immune system, which protects against infections and diseases.

Because horses cannot synthesize Vitamin C themselves, it must be sourced through their diet or supplements. Although horses are naturally able to produce some Vitamin C from glucose, this process is limited and insufficient to meet their daily requirements. Therefore, it is crucial to provide horses with Vitamin C through their diet or supplementation.