Effects of betaine supplementation on dry matter intake, milk characteristics, plasma non-esterified fatty acids, and β-hydroxybutyric acid in dairy cattle: a meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT: Betaine supplementation in dairy cattle has gained attention due to its potential benefits to production and health as a methyl donor, which can play a crucial role in the metabolism of dairy cows. The objective of the current meta-analysis was to quantify the effects of betaine supplementation on milk production, composition, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). A systematic literature search was carried out, all relevant studies were retrieved, and the meta-analysis was carried out. The mean difference (MD) for dry matter intake (DMI) using the random-effects model was 0.499 kg/d (P < 0.0001). The subgroup analysis indicated that supplementing betaine in heat-stressed cows increased DMI by 0.584 kg/d (P < 0.001), while in cows not exposed to heat stress, D

SUBMITTER: Malik MI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11398911 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature