An Important Help from Nature
Probiotics, understood as microorganisms or their derivatives have shown interesting action as a stimulus for rumen development. The yeast cell, for example, contains RNA and free nucleotides, amino acids, B vitamins, and many enzymes. These contribute to the breakdown and utilization of sugars, facilitate glucose absorption, participate in coenzyme formation processes, and promote the activity of ruminal and intestinal microflora, with significant improvements in pH, intake, and digestive efficiency.
Recently, many studies have focused on evaluating certain plant extracts as a natural alternative to the use of antibiotics or other chemical substances. It is now established that some essences can condition the rumen flora and thus the related fermentations. Positive results have been found, for example, with the use of Aloe Barbadensis and mulberry leaf flavonoids, cumin, and garlic. Essential oils of thyme and cinnamon have been shown to stimulate the production of propionate and butyrate at the expense of acetate (Vakili et al. Jds 2013). Even compared to the use of Monensin, this combination has yielded significant results (C.E. Chapman Jds 2016).
Other interesting molecules for their action are organic acids. Malic acid has a stimulating action on the ruminal bacterium Selemonas Ruminantium, which uses lactic acid to transform it into propionic acid, with positive benefits on ruminal pH, particularly useful after concentrate feeding. It reduces the number of protozoa and thus decreases methane production, with related metabolic utilization of carbon that would otherwise be lost. Other studies have shown that supplementation with malic acid increased fiber digestibility (Sniffen et al., 2006), ruminal propionate (Gomez et al. 2005), and butyrate production (Gomez et al., 2005).
The positive action of butyric acid on ruminal papillae development is well documented. The possible mechanisms through which butyrate acts include accelerating cell proliferation, inhibiting apoptosis of papillary cells, and stimulating the expression of genes involved in the absorption and metabolism of VFA in the ruminal epithelium.
Conclusions:
The development of the rumen in calves can directly influence food intake, nutrient digestibility, and final calf growth. Any changes in early feeding regimes and nutrition can affect rumen development and, consequently, lead to lasting effects on growth, health, and subsequent milk production. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to the weaning method, starter feed characteristics, and its administration.
