Effects of betaine supplementation on dry matter intake, milk characteristics, plasma non-esterified fatty acids, and β-hydroxybutyric acid in dairy cattle: a meta-analysis
Abstract
Abstract Betaine supplementation in dairy cattle has gained attention due to its potential benefits to production and health as a methyl donor, which can play a crucial role in the metabolism of dairy cows. The objective of the current meta-analysis was to quantify the effects of betaine supplementation on milk production, composition, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). A systematic literature search was carried out, all relevant studies were retrieved, and the meta-analysis was carried out. The mean difference (MD) for dry matter intake (DMI) using the random-effects model was 0.499 kg/d (P < 0.0001). The subgroup analysis indicated that supplementing betaine in heat-stressed cows increased DMI by 0.584 kg/d (P < 0.001), while in cows not exposed to heat stress, DMI was increased by 0.381 kg/d (P = 0.007). The energy-corrected milk (ECM) increased by 1.36 kg/d (P < 0.0001). The milk fat yield was significantly increased in betaine-supplemented cows (MD = 0.040 kg/d, 95% CI = 0.015 to 0.065). The milk protein yield (kg/d) (MD = 0.014, P = 0.138) was increased (MD = 0.035, P = 0.0005) by betaine supplementation. The lactose yield (kg/d) was also significantly higher (MD = 0.055, P = 0.020) in betaine-supplemented cows. The standardized mean difference (SMD) for NEFA (SMD = − 0.447, 95% CI = − 1.029 to 0.135, P = 0.114) and BHBA (SMD = − 0.130, 95% CI = − 0.491 to 0.234). In conclusion, the findings from this meta-analysis suggest that betaine…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in animal, not in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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