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Weight loss resistance: A further consideration for the nutritional management of obese Equidae.

Authors :
Argo, Caroline McG.
Curtis, Gemma C.
Grove-White, Dai
Dugdale, Alexandra H. A.
Barfoot, Clare F.
Harris, Patricia A.
Source :
Veterinary Journal. Nov2012, Vol. 194 Issue 2, p179-188. 10p.
Publication Year :
2012

Abstract

Evidence-based, weight loss management advice is required to address equine obesity. Changes in body mass (BM), body condition score (BCS), heart (HG) and belly circumference (BG), direct (ultrasonographic) and indirect (D2O dilution, bioelectrical impedance analysis [BIA]) measures of body fat as well as indices of insulin resistance (IR) were monitored in 12 overweight (BCS ≥7/9) horses and ponies of mixed breed and gender for 16 weeks. Animals were randomly assigned to two groups (Group 1, n = 6, BCS 7.6/9 ± 0.6, 489 ± 184.6kg; Group 2, n=6, BCS 8.1/9 ± 0.6, 479 ± 191.5 kg). Daily dry matter intake (DMI) was restricted to 1.25% BM as one of two, near-isocaloric (DE ~0.115 MJ/kg BM/day), forage-based diets (Group 1, 0.8% BM chaff-based feed: 0.45% BM hay; Group 2, 1.15% BM hay: 0.1% BM nutrient-balancer). Statistical modelling revealed considerable between-animal heterogeneity in proportional weight losses (0.16-0.55% of Week 1 BM weekly). The magnitude of weight loss resistance (WLR) or sensitivity to dietary restriction was independent of diet or any measured outset variable and was largely (65%) attributed to animal identity. Predicted rates of weight loss decreased over time. BCS and BIA were poor estimates of D2O-derived body fat%. Reciprocal changes in depths of retroperitoneal and subcutaneous adipose tissues were evident. Changes in BG were associated with losses in retroperitoneal fat and BM (r², 0.67 and 0.79). Indices of IR improved for 9/12 animals by Week 16. For obese animals, weight loss should be initiated by restricting forage DMI to 1.25% BM. Subsequent restriction to 1% BM may be warranted for WLR animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
10900233
Volume :
194
Issue :
2
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Veterinary Journal
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
83918541
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.09.020