1-month-old Thoroughbred racehorse foals' gut bacterial diversity link to future athletic performance and health risks, with higher diversity correlating to better performance and decreased respiratory disease risk.

A study by the University of Surrey found that Thoroughbred racehorse foals' gut bacterial composition at one month old is linked to their future athletic performance and health risks. Higher bacterial diversity at 28 days old resulted in better athletic performance and a decreased risk of respiratory diseases. Conversely, foals with lower bacterial diversity had a higher risk of respiratory issues. The study also discovered that antibiotic use during the first month of life could disrupt the healthy bacterial balance, affecting long-term health and performance. Further research aims to develop probiotics to enhance early gut health and investigate responsible antibiotic usage.

August 07, 2024
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