For equine performance and racing horses at the top level, iron plays an essential role in the production of oxygen-carrying proteins (haemoglobin in red cells and myoglobin in muscles). The haemoglobin transports the oxygen through the blood circulation; the myoglobin picks up the oxygen from the blood in the capillary veins and transports it to the cells. Iron is also needed for the oxygenation of red blood cells, a healthy immune system and for energy production, all vital requirements for horses in training or under competitive stress.
The activiron™ range contains an iron compound of sodium iron EDTA, which contains water soluble ferric sodium with a unique coating, or jacket, of ethylenediaminetetraacetic (EDTA) acid. This EDTA coating provides the best combined result for iron fortification in terms of improved bioavailability and excellent oxidative stability for iron nutrition.
The sodium iron EDTA in activiron™, although considered still relatively new to Australasia, has been available for human supplementation in Europe for over thirty years. The iron compound is supported by extensive long term studies and has received official acceptance from the British Pharmacopoeia (BP) as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA.
More recently, studies have also been conducted in a growing number of developing countries where death from anaemic conditions in infants and susceptible adults is high. Recently published research found sodium iron EDTA to be more effective in raising iron levels than electrolytic iron versions. This is despite electrolytic iron being the most frequently used to fortify grain-based foods to date.
Phytic acid, which is present in grains, legumes and oilseeds, is usually regarded as an anti-nutritive factor. Its negative effects on the bio-availability of iron and other essential minerals and trace elements has been described in several studies conducted on humans and monogastric animals (including horses). Unlike products containing sodium iron EDTA (activiron™), supplements and feeds containing elemental iron as Fe may interfere with copper, selenium and zinc absorption, and slow the metabolism of phosphorus.
What are the advantages of activiron™ Performance Plus Powder?
activiron™ Performance Plus Powder is a premium quality formulation that has significant advantages in terms of bioactive efficiencies. It has been especially designed to provide concentrated levels and replenishment of those important micronutrients and additives that are most essential for peak activity and energy metabolism in horses on a daily basis. With the impact of the unique NaFeEDTA iron, plus 21 key vitamins, organic minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, activiron™ Performance Plus Powder is ideal for:
- Red blood cell formation
- Appetite
- Antioxidant protection
- Blood building
- Aids in recovery
- Energy production and metabolism
- Immune support
- Coat condition
Supported by long-term nutritional studies, the iron compound in activiron™ has a higher absorption rate for performance horses on grain based diets.
Unlike traditional iron supplements, this EDTA iron has no negative impact on the bio availability of other vitamins and minerals, no adverse gastric side effects and can also be used with Vitamin E.
Formulated in a convenient dissolvable base, activiron™ Performance Plus Powder can be added to feed daily or used as directed by your veterinarian.