Figure 1. Dorsal cannon bone density in Thoroughbred racehorses.
Triacton® is a triple-action supplement designed to improve bone density and support digestive health in horses. The pelleted supplement contains an array of highly bioavailable minerals and vitamins essential for sound skeletal development and maintenance, as well as optimal function of the gastrointestinal tract.
Studies conducted at Kentucky Equine Research have demonstrated the positive effects Triacton has on bone density and buffering capacity of the stomach and hindgut.
Studies conducted at Kentucky Equine Research with Triacton demonstrated an increase in bone density among Thoroughbreds in race training. Horses receiving 120 grams per day of Triacton for 90 days had a threefold greater increase in dorsal (shin) cortical bone density compared to the horses that received a placebo (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Dorsal cannon bone density in Thoroughbred racehorses.
In order to optimize the health and efficiency of the gastrointestinal tract, the pH of the stomach and hindgut must be controlled. If these environments become too acidic, horses are prone to gastric ulcers and hindgut acidosis. Limestone, known also as calcium carbonate, is commonly used as a source of calcium in equine supplements and fortified feeds. However, this form has a limited capacity to regulate or buffer pH. Triacton contains a different source of calcium and several other highly bioavailable minerals that provide greater buffering capacity than limestone to effectively suppress acidity throughout the digestive tract.
Excessive acidity in the stomach is a primary factor in the development of gastric ulcers in horses. Signs of gastric ulcers include poor appetite, teeth-grinding, dull coat, and changes in disposition. Laboratory studies at Kentucky Equine Research have shown that when Triacton is added to feed it increases buffering capacity twofold in acidic conditions typically seen in the stomach (Figure 2).
Figure 2. Triacton increases buffering capacity twofold in typical gastric pH ranges.
Overproduction of acid in the cecum and colon can lead to hindgut acidosis. This often occurs in horses fed high-grain intakes or fructan-rich forage. Signs of hindgut acidosis are loose or inconsistent manure, occasional colic, and stereotypic behaviors such as wood-chewing and stall-walking. Acute hindgut acidosis can lead to intestinal damage and laminitis. In studies at Kentucky Equine Research, BMC® (Buffered Mineral Complex), the calcium source in Triacton, improved hindgut buffering capacity by 54%. (Figure 3).
Figure 3. BMC, one of the key ingredients in Triacton, improves hindgut buffering capacity by 54%.
Triacton supports health in three research-proven ways: increasing bone density for skeletal strength, buffering stomach acid to bolster gastric health and reduce the incidence of ulcers, and moderating the pH of the hindgut to prevent acidosis. Triple-action Triacton is a pelleted, palatable supplement designed to be fed twice a day.
Feed 120 g per day to mature horses, and 60-120 g to growing horses.
In racehorses, we recommend stopping this product 24 hours prior to racing.
