Supplementation of ascorbic acid to improve fertility in dairy cattle. Review

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C: VC) is an antioxidant that participates in the regulatory processes involved in the development of ovarian structures and fertility. However, supplementation of VC to dairy cattle to improve fertility has received little attention. However, reduced fertility in dairy cattle associated with high genetic merit for milk production and heat stress, which also diminish blood VC concentrations, suggest a potentially beneficial role for VC supplementation. The objectives of this review are to contribute to the current knowledge regarding the relationship between VC and fertility and to share many experiences that support the relevance of VC supplementation to improve dairy cattle reproductive performance.