In the majestic world of horses, every gallop echoes with power, and every stride reflects robust health. However, even these noble creatures are not immune to the toll of time and wear. 

Enter carnosine, a scientifically backed compound that promises to redefine equine well-being. From its role in muscle vitality to its potential in age-related challenges, carnosine is fast becoming one of the most essential horse health products on the market.

What is carnosine?

Carnosine is a dipeptide consisting of two amino acids, beta-alanine and histidine, and is naturally found both in the human and animal body. In short, it’s health benefits are:

• buffers the build-up of lactic acid during exercise
• helps to prevent damage to brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation
• has been found to have antioxidant and anti-aging properties
• helps to regulate the activity of immune cells and improve immune function
• helps to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and protect against heart disease.

How does carnosine work?

When your horse runs, its muscles produce lactic acid, a byproduct of the process the body uses to generate energy when oxygen levels are low. Too much lactic acid can leave the muscles fatigued and sore. This acidity is a primary factor behind the drop in a horse’s performance as a race progresses. One of the roles of carnosine in muscles is to act as a pH buffer. By doing so, it can help counteract the pH-lowering effects of lactic acid, prolonging endurance during strenuous activities. [3]

Another powerful property of carnosine is its anti-oxidant properties. [1][2] Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can damage cellular structures if left unchecked. This property is significant, especially during high-intensity training sessions, where oxidative stress can be detrimental.

Thirdly, carnosine is observed to regulate the activity of immune cells, which can help enhance the horse’s immune response. Additionally, its vasodilatory effects, which help improve blood flow, combined with its ability to reduce inflammation, position carnosine as a protector against heart diseases.

In summary, carnosine’s role within the equine body is multifaceted. Its ability to work at the intersection of muscle health, nervous system protection, and overall cellular well-being makes it an invaluable compound.

Carnosine in horses

Interestingly, Carnosine is found in higher concentrations in horses than in humans. For perspective, top-tier human athletes might possess carnosine concentrations of about 25-35 mmol/kg, whereas horses can range from 120-130 mmol/kg. This high concentration, especially in important muscle groups, helps them to run or jump faster and longer.

Carnosine is available in equine feeds, supplements and gel form. But when it comes to joint, tendon and muscle health, the most effective way to increase carnosine levels is by applying it directly with a gel.

CarnoGel is a scientifically backed equine gel produced in cooperation with the Tartu Pharmacology Institute and professional equestrian athletes. Just one small palmful applied directly to the necessary muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints will have the desired effect.

Is Carnosport approved by sports federations?

Yes. Carnosport gel is a doping-free product and has been approved for use by all sports federations, regardless of the difficulty level and type of competition. It can safely be used for all performance horses, including show jumping, dressage or racing.

An in-depth look at the horse’s muscular system

Horses, like humans, have fast-twitch (Type II) and slow-twitch (Type I) muscle fibers. Fast-twitch fibers are suited for quick bursts of energy and are particularly relevant in racing or show-jumping scenarios. In contrast, slow-twitch fibers are endurance-oriented and more suited for long-distance trekking.

Carnosine predominantly resides in fast-twitch muscle fibers. This distribution is no coincidence. Given carnosine’s ability to buffer lactic acid and combat fatigue, its concentration in these fibers is essential. During intense physical exertion, fast-twitch fibers are heavily engaged, producing lactic acid as a byproduct. Carnosine, being present, acts as a buffer, ensuring that the muscles maintain their performance over short, intense periods.

The athletic horse, whether involved in racing, show jumping, or dressage, relies heavily on the efficiency of its fast-twitch muscles. By understanding the role of carnosine in these muscles, trainers and caregivers can tailor nutritional and training regimens to optimize the horse’s innate muscular capabilities.

Horse care summary

Horse care is an intricate balance of the right diet, rich in essential vitamins, electrolytes and minerals, combined with well-chosen supplementation or gels that help keep your horse in exceptional shape and performing at its best.

Carnosine, available in effective formulations like CarnoGel, stands as a significant advancement in equine care, backed by scientific validation and cooperation with experts in the field. It promises to leverage the naturally high levels of carnosine in horses, helping them maintain muscle vitality and potentially enhance performance.

As we continue to prioritize the well-being of horses through informed choices in diet and supplementation, embracing proven solutions like carnosine is not just an opportunity but a responsibility. It marks a step towards healthier, stronger, and more vibrant lives for our equine companions.