Vitamin E and its role in the nutrition of the gilt and sow: A review

Abstract

There is evidence that supplementation of most sow diets with vitamin E is necessary. The common recommendation for supplemental vitamin E in sow diets is 10–20 IU kg −1 diet. This level of vitamin E is adequate to meet needs of the sow for reproduction and to maintain body reserves of α-tocopherol over several parities. Reproducing females can tolerate lower dietary intakes of vitamin E if the levels of Se in the diet are adequate. If body reserves are maintained, the sow, through the colostrum and milk, can supply the neonate with the α-tocopherol required for normal growth and maintenance of tissue integrity. The neonatal piglet is dependent on the sow's colostrum for its α-tocopherol requirements as little placental transfer of vitamin E occurs during gestation. Placental transfer of α-tocopherol is resistant to dietary manipulation while colostral transfer can be enhanced by dietary supplementation. The dietary level of vitamin E in the sow gestation and lactation diet optimal for immune function in both sow and her piglet has not been established. Based on preliminary studies, the level needed is higher than that stated above for growth and reproduction. Enhancements in immune response have been observed with additions of 40–60 IU vitamin E kg −1 diet. This potential for enhancement of the sow's and piglet's immune response by dietary supplementation of vitamin E represents a possibility to improve pre-weaning survival of piglets.