TitleNutritional Influences on Skeletal Muscle and Muscular Disease.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2021
AuthorsUrschel, KL, McKenzie, EC
JournalVet Clin North Am Equine Pract
Volume37
Issue1
Pagination139-175
Date Published2021 Apr
ISSN1558-4224
Abstract

Skeletal muscle comprises 40% to 55% of mature body weight in horses, and its mass is determined largely by rates of muscle protein synthesis. In order to support exercise, appropriate energy sources are essential: glucose can support both anaerobic and aerobic exercise, whereas fat can only be metabolized aerobically. Following exercise, ingestion of nonfiber carbohydrates and protein can aid muscle growth and recovery. Muscle glycogen replenishment is slow in horses, regardless of dietary interventions. Several heritable muscle disorders, including type 1 and 2 polysaccharide storage myopathy and recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis, can be managed in part by restricting dietary nonstructural carbohydrate intake.

DOI10.1016/j.cveq.2020.12.005
Alternate JournalVet Clin North Am Equine Pract
PubMed ID33820605