NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTATION IN ATHLETIC HORSES: SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE ON EFFICACY AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Nutritional supplementation is widely used in equine athletes to support performance, recovery, hydration, and health maintenance. However, the commercial availability and popularity of these products are not always accompanied by consistent scientific evidence. This study aimed to critically analyze the evidence regarding the efficacy, bioavailability, and safety of the main supplements used in equine athletes, considering their relationship with the adequacy of the basal diet. An integrative literature review was conducted using a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, including studies on creatine, proteins and amino acids, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, probiotics, prebiotics, fermentation products, fatty acids, and multicomponent formulations. The results indicated more favorable evidence for electrolyte replacement in specific situations involving prolonged exercise and substantial sweat losses, as well as for vitamins and minerals when deficiency or inadequate intake is present. In contrast, antioxidants, probiotics, prebiotics, fermentation products, and fatty acids showed partial effects, mainly related to biomarkers, without consistent evidence of clinical or athletic improvement. Regarding creatine, the analyzed studies did not demonstrate a consistent ergogenic benefit, although changes in some laboratory variables were observed. It is concluded that supplementation should be individualized and based on the assessment of the diet, body condition, athletic discipline, and the animal’s actual nutritional needs. Supplements may serve as complementary resources, but they do not replace high-quality forage, nutritional balance, water availability, and appropriate feeding management.