Effects of Chinese Herbal Mixtures on Sows' Health
Author Information
Author(s): Duan Xuelei, Wang Xiao, Li Zhaonian, Liu Chenggong, Zhang Lu, Bao Yongzhan, Shi Wanyu, Zhao Xinghua
Primary Institution: Hebei Agricultural University
Hypothesis
Supplementary feeding of Chinese herbal mixtures will improve reproductive performance, immunity, and breast milk quality in perinatal sows.
Conclusion
Supplemental feeding of 2 kg/t and 3 kg/t QZGSP significantly improved reproductive performance, immunity, and milk quality in sows.
Supporting Evidence
- Supplemental feeding of QZGSP improved average daily feed intake and milk yield.
- Sows receiving QZGSP had significantly lower farrowing duration and interval.
- Serum levels of immunoglobulins IgG and IgA increased in sows fed QZGSP.
- QZGSP supplementation led to significant changes in the microbiota composition of colostrum and milk.
Takeaway
Feeding sows special herbal mixtures helps them have healthier babies and better milk.
Methodology
Sixty healthy pregnant sows were divided into five groups and fed different diets for 5 weeks, with various measurements taken on reproductive performance and milk quality.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in group allocation and environmental factors affecting results.
Limitations
The study was conducted in a single location and may not be generalizable to all environments.
Participant Demographics
Sixty healthy pregnant sows (Large white, 4 parities).
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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