The significance of vitamin D for sows has often been overlooked. However, recent studies conducted in France and Germany have once again highlighted its crucial role. Research indicates that vitamin D can significantly reduce stillbirths in sows and enhance the weight of piglets at birth. This growing body of evidence suggests that vitamin D is more than just a basic nutrient—it plays a key role in reproductive health and productivity.
Two articles published at the end of 2012 and early 2013 discussed the impact of vitamin D on sow performance, emphasizing its influence on gene expression. One emerging area of research involves how vitamin D affects over 200 genes, opening new doors for understanding its broader biological functions.
Traditionally, vitamin D is known for its role in regulating calcium and phosphorus metabolism. For sows, this function is especially critical. Not only do they need sufficient calcium to maintain strong bones, but they also require large amounts during lactation to support milk production. Any deficiency can lead to serious health issues, affecting both the sow and her litter.
To understand why vitamin D is so powerful, it's important to look at its metabolic pathway. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight and then converted into its storage form in the liver—known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (calcifediol). It is further activated in the kidneys to become 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), the active form responsible for most of its biological effects.
The liver plays a vital role in determining how much vitamin D is available in the body. This means that simply supplementing with extra vitamin D3 may not be enough. In fact, many sows may not convert it efficiently, leading to suboptimal levels. That’s why direct supplementation with calcifediol, the more bioavailable form, could offer better results.
Based on this insight, DSM developed a product called Lovastatin, which is a commercial form of calcifediol. In feed applications, one gram of this product can replace 500 IU of vitamin D3. Trials have shown that feeding calcifediol leads to higher blood levels of this compound throughout the sow’s reproductive cycle compared to traditional vitamin D3.
Recent trials conducted by DSM in France and Germany involved sows with high productivity, producing over 30 weaned piglets per year. The test group received 4 grams of calcifediol per ton of feed, while the control group received 2000 IU of vitamin D3 per ton. The study spanned two full breeding cycles, covering gestation and lactation, to assess reproductive improvements.
Results showed a significant reduction in stillbirths among sows receiving calcifediol. In the German trial, the stillbirth rate dropped by 10%, while in the French trial with first-time sows, the reduction was even more impressive—13%. These findings suggest that calcifediol can make a real difference in reproductive outcomes.
The mechanism behind this improvement is likely related to its effect on calcium and phosphorus balance. By enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium, calcifediol helps maintain optimal levels in the sow’s bloodstream. This is essential for preventing complications such as dystocia and prolonged labor, which are often linked to low calcium levels.
In addition, the studies found that calcifediol increased blood calcium levels compared to standard vitamin D3. In the French trial, the calcifediol group had a calcium concentration of about 0.51 mg/dl, compared to 0.31 mg/dl in the control group. This increase had a positive impact on the birthing process, reducing the need for manual intervention and decreasing the occurrence of birth complications like fever and uterine palpation.
Calcium also plays a role in postpartum recovery, helping sows milk faster and produce more milk. Piglets from the calcifediol-fed sows were observed to have higher weaning weights, indicating better growth performance.
Overall, these studies reinforce the importance of maintaining proper calcium balance in sows. With the right supplementation, such as calcifediol, farmers can improve reproductive efficiency, reduce stillbirths, and boost the health and growth of their piglets. As research continues, the role of vitamin D in swine nutrition will likely become even more recognized and valued.
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