The influence of Vitamin D Supplementation on its serum level and energy metabolic profile in Grey Shirazi ewes

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

• Zahra Davoodabadi ¹
• Seyedeh Missagh Jalali ²
• Meysam Makki ¹
• Alidad Boostani ³
• Mohamad Rahim Hajikolai ¹

¹ Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

² Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz

³ Department of Animal Science, Fars Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Fars, Iran

10.22067/ijvst.2025.92115.1478

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on serum vitamin D levels and the metabolic profile of Grey Shirazi ewes, during pregnancy. Sixty healthy Grey Shirazi ewes were divided into three groups: Group 1 (control); Group 2, which received a single intramuscular dose of 10,000 IU vitamin D at the time of insemination; and Group 3, which received a single dose of 10,000 IU vitamin D at mid-pregnancy. Blood samples were collected at four stages: insemination, mid-pregnancy, late pregnancy, and post-lambing. Vitamin D levels significantly decreased in the control group during pregnancy, while Groups 2 and 3 maintained stable levels, with Group 3 exhibited the highest levels by late pregnancy and postpartum. In terms of energy balance, serum β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels were lowest in the mid-pregnancy supplemented group. Insulin concentrations also rose in Group 3 in the later stages, indicating better glucose metabolism. Calcium and phosphorus levels were most favorable in Group 3, peaking postpartum. All groups experienced increased triglycerides and cholesterol, but Group 3 had the highest triglycerides postpartum. Additionally, serum protein and albumin levels were significantly higher in Group 3 during the postpartum period, reflecting improved nutritional status and protein synthesis. The results of this study suggest that vitamin D supplementation during mid-pregnancy has the potential to enhance metabolic health in Grey Shirazi ewes, with significant implications for both maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Further research is necessary to identify optimal dosing and timing for broader application in practice.

Keywords

• Vitamin D
• Energy balance
• metabolic biomarkers
• Pregnancy
• Grey Shirazi sheep

Main Subjects

• Clinical pathology

---