Buffering vs Using Digestive Acid

Understanding Acid in Digestion

Acid is a natural part of digestion. So why does it cause so many problems? The issue isn’t the acid itself—it’s the accumulation of acid. When the right bacteria aren’t present in the digestive system, gut acid can build up, leading to discomfort and various health concerns.

The Role of VFAs in Digestion

Volatile fatty acids (VFAs) are the primary energy source for cattle. These essential compounds are produced by microbes fermenting ingested feed. Once VFAs are absorbed into the bloodstream, they provide the necessary energy for bodily functions, supporting overall health and performance.

How a Balanced Gut Microbiome Supports Digestion

When the gut microbiome is balanced and functioning properly, it impacts nearly every other aspect of health. The gut plays a major role in immune system regulation and nutrient absorption. A properly balanced rumen pH allows cattle to consume denser, higher-energy diets and younger, more digestible forages. This improves feed efficiency and overall animal performance.

Supporting Cattle Gut Health with P-One™

By adding the Smartbacteria in P-One to your cattle’s diet, you help restore the good bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria efficiently use glucose and lactic acid, converting them into VFAs. The proper use of lactic acid stabilizes the rumen and keeps the gut on track, preventing cows from entering an acidotic state.

Supporting Horse Gut Health with E-One™

Horses can also experience gut acid buildup, which leads to digestive upset. Including the Smartbacteria in E-One in their diet helps reintroduce beneficial bacteria. This bacteria efficiently uses glucose and excess lactic acid, converting them into VFAs. By balancing lactic acid levels, the digestive system stabilizes, keeping horses out of an acidotic state and promoting overall gut health.

Signs of Gut Acid Buildup

Recognizing early symptoms of acid imbalance is key to preventing long-term health issues.

• Cattle: Decreased feed intake, reduced production, poor body condition, loose manure.
• Horses: Abdominal pain, kicking at the belly, excessive rolling, sweating, loss of appetite, weight loss.
• People: Heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, weight loss, abdominal pain, sore throat, diarrhea.

Best Practices for Maintaining Gut Health

Supporting a balanced gut starts with proper diet, stress management, and hydration. Here are a few key ways to maintain optimal gut function. These tips are for humans and animals :

• Include a high-quality probiotic/supplement: (or the first ever Anthrobiotic – Somaya Life – for healthy humans). For livestock – any of Priority IAC’s Smartbacteria products.
• Feed/eat a balanced diet with adequate fiber and nutrients.
• Manage stress, as it directly impacts gut health.
• Drink plenty of fresh clean water to support digestion and metabolic processes.
• Limit sugars, alcohol, and caffeine to prevent excess acid production.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the digestive system.

Final Thoughts

A healthy gut is the foundation of overall well-being for both animals and humans. P-One and E-One help cattle and horses maintain optimal digestion by preventing acid buildup and promoting beneficial bacteria. Investing in gut health leads to better performance, improved feed efficiency, and long-term wellness.

Would you like to learn more about how P-One™, E-One™, and Smartbacteria™ can benefit your livestock? Contact us today for more information!

By: Brittany Herzfeldt – Microbiology Nutritionist