Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H. Biotin has essential roles in cell proliferation and amino acid production. Both attributes make biotin important for strong hooves and hair. Cell proliferation, or the process that creates new cells, is valuable for hair and hoof health. After this process, new cells can be reincorporated into hair and hooves and help achieve maximum growth. Production of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, is also important because keratin, the main component of hair, is a type of protein that requires these amino acid building blocks.
Although less commonly recognized than biotin, zinc is also important for maintaining hair and hooves. Zinc is a trace mineral involved in several biological functions within the body, many involving growth and healing. Zinc deficiency also decreases the utilization of amino acids, resulting in poor hair and hoof quality. In addition, zinc is required to produce collagen, the connective tissue responsible for skin repair and condition. The zinc requirement for a horse is estimated to be 400 milligrams per day according to the National Research Council (NRC) nutrient requirements, and it is thought that many horses may have zinc deficiency.
Taking this knowledge into account, Vitalize® Digest More® PLUS was formulated using the Amaferm® advantage with biotin and zinc to achieve targeted improvement in hair and coat health in addition to the enhancement in digestion, absorption and overall gut wellness. Click Here to learn more about the product.
