Nutrition plays a significant role in the development and function of the immune system. There are many immunostimulating substances that have been used in poultry and livestock with success such as vitamin E and selenium etc. The influence of vitamin E on the development and functional activity of the immune system in animals and their resistance to infectious diseases is well known. Selenium supplementation for animals in diets enhances the immune status and ability of the immune system to respond to disease challenges.
Vitamin E plays an important role in various biochemical and physiological processes, including antioxidation (Franchini et al. 1995). In nutritional and physiological research, vitamin E supplementation has been proven to improve growth performance, enhance immunity (Gatlin, 2002) and restore impaired immunity (Sheehy et al., 1997). Selenium as an essential trace mineral, functions as an integral component of glutathione peroxidase (Rotruck et al., 1973). Vitamin E is a primary biological antioxidant preferentially retained in cellular membrane and provides the first line of defense against oxidative damage. A combination of selenium and vitamin E has been shown to play a major role in the development and maintenance of defense systems (Marsh et al., 1981).
Vitamin E and selenium both have immunostimulatory effects in a variety of species when administered in quantities in excess of established dietary requirements. Deficiencies of vitamin E and selenium conversely caused suppression of the immune response system, particularly, cell-mediated mechanisms. Inclusion in the diet above requirement is associated with variable improvements in animal performance and immune function. At the cellular and molecular level, research in the last decade has produced a clearer understanding of the mechanisms underlying the multiple functions of vitamin E and Se and it is apparent that these functions extend beyond antioxidant protection.
Zagro is always committed to offer high-quality products. Zagrosol ES is a liquid Vitamin E and Selenium supplement administered via the drinking water for livestock animals. Vitamin E and Selenium are important biological antioxidants which complement each other in boosting the animal’s immune system and minimizing stress in livestock production.
