Evaluation of glutamine supplementation on productive performance and biochemical variables in weaning piglets

Abstract

One of the biggest challenges in pig production is the weaning, which implies a marked reduction in feed intake and metabolic wear. Intestinal villus atrophy and decreased digestion and absorption of nutrients are reported as a consequence of weaning. Research has shown that glutamine supplementation favors intestinal morpho-function and productive performance in piglets. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of glutamine supplementation in weaned piglets by measuring productive performance and biochemical blood markers. The research was carried out at the Uyumbicho Experimental Center (CEU) belonging to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics of the Central University of Ecuador. A total of 8 piglets (Landrace x Yorkshire x Pietrain x Duroc) were used. The piglets were randomly distributed in each of the 4 treatments: T1 = control 1 (without dairy supplement), T2 = control 2 (dairy supplement), T3 = dairy supplement + glutamine (0.5%), T4 = dairy supplement + glutamine (1%). Piglets receiving 0.5% glutamine had the highest daily weight gain (0.404 kg/day) and the best feed conversion (1.16) between 28 and 35 days of age (week 1). A similar trend was seen at week 5 (57-63 days of age), 0.877 g/day and 1.78, respectively. There was no difference in the biochemical variables evaluated between the 4 groups. The use of a milk replacer and glutamine supplementation would have the potential to reduce post-weaning adverse effects in piglets.