Protein
Structure
Proteins are made up from amino acids, of which there are 22 commonly recognised as essential in the horse’s diet. These amino acids combine in unique chains to form proteins.
The ‘limiting’ amino acids (those most likely to interfere with the metabolism through being in short supply) are lysine and methionine.
Functions
For body building and tissue repair. Protein is needed for the formation of muscles, bones, blood cells, enzymes, hormones, skin, the internal organs such as lungs and liver, arteries, bones and almost all body constituents. Certain amino acids are also necessary for the metabolism and utilisation of energy.
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