Colostrum supplementation with n-3 fatty acids and α-tocopherol alters plasma polyunsaturated fatty acid profile and decreases an indicator of oxidative stress in newborn calves

摘要

Our objective was to characterize the effects of supplementingnewborn calves with n-3 fatty acids (FA)and α-tocopherol on blood lipid profiles and oxidantstatus in early life. Sixteen calves received 0 or 60 mLof 1:1 fish and flaxseed oil with 200 mg of α-tocopherolin 2.8 L of colostrum within 6 h after birth. Colostrumwas >22% on the Brix scale. Blood was sampled on d 1,2, 4, 7, 14, and 21 after birth for assessment of plasmapolyunsaturated FA, α-tocopherol, total serum protein,and oxidant status index, an indirect indicatorof oxidative stress that examines the balance betweenthe concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen speciesand antioxidant capacity in serum. Health was observeddaily. Weight and hip height were recorded atbirth, 3 wk, and 8 wk. Data were analyzed with aMixed procedure of SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary,NC). Treatment did not alter concentration of totalprotein in blood serum, prevalence of diarrhea or othersigns of disease, or rate of growth. Feeding n-3 FA andα-tocopherol increased plasma concentrations of then-3 FA, including α-linolenic, eicosapentaenoic, anddocosahexaenoic acids, with a concomitant decrease inoxidant status index during the first week of life. Concentrationsof α-tocopherol decreased with supplementation,but all calves maintained adequate concentrations.Oxidant status index of treated calves returnedto the level of control calves by d 14. We conclude thata colostrum supplement of n-3 FA and α-tocopherol issafe to administer to newborn calves, reduces oxidantstatus in the first week of life, and may improve healthand performance.