5-HTP Supplementation Improves Growth and Gut Health in Piglets
Author Information
Author(s): Xia Yinzhao, Peng Xie, Mao Jiani, Luo Ju, Li Huifeng, Ma Dengjun
Primary Institution: Laboratory for Bio-Feed and Molecular Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
Hypothesis
Dietary 5-HTP would promote growth performance through improving intestinal health in weaned piglets.
Conclusion
Supplementation of 5-HTP at 250 mg/kg improved growth performance, reduced diarrhea rate, and enhanced nutrient digestibility in weaned piglets.
Supporting Evidence
- Piglets fed 250 mg/kg 5-HTP had higher average daily gain and lower feed conversion ratio compared to the control group.
- 5-HTP supplementation decreased the diarrhea rate in piglets.
- Blood levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 increased with 5-HTP supplementation.
- Intestinal morphology improved with increased villus height and villus-to-crypt ratio in the jejunum.
- 5-HTP altered gut microbiota composition, increasing beneficial bacteria and decreasing harmful ones.
Takeaway
Giving piglets a special food ingredient called 5-HTP helps them grow better and stay healthier after weaning.
Methodology
Twenty-four 28-day-old weaned piglets were divided into three groups and fed diets with different levels of 5-HTP for 35 days, with measurements taken on growth performance, blood profiles, and intestinal health.
Limitations
The study only tested two levels of 5-HTP and did not explore long-term effects beyond the experimental period.
Participant Demographics
Weaned piglets, specifically Landrace × Large Yorkshire breed, aged 28 days.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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