11/15/2025
⭐️Topic of the day ⭐️
WHITE MUSCLE DISEASE
What is it???? - A dystrophy of the muscle tissue caused by-
💥a deficiency of selenium and/or vitamin E in the diet. 💥These nutrients are vital for muscle function and protecting cells from oxidative damage. Animals with this condition, common in newborns, may experience muscle weakness, stiffness, and, in severe cases, heart failure.
⭐️NOTE⭐️Many animals INCLUDING those in the Avian category are affected by this disease !!!!!🦠
⭐️Key causes⭐️
Selenium deficiency: Selenium is an essential trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant.
It is taken up by plants from the soil, so areas with low selenium content in the soil can lead to a deficiency in the animals that eat those plants.
The selenium content in soil can be reduced by factors like acid rain and intensive plant production.
Vitamin E deficiency: Vitamin E is another important antioxidant that works with selenium to protect muscles from damage.
Interfering factors: Certain substances can reduce the body's ability to use selenium, even if it is present in the diet:
High levels of other minerals, such as iron, copper, and cobalt.
Large amounts of unsaturated fatty acids in the diet.
Increased demand: The disease can be triggered by periods of increased stress or physiological demand, such as exercise, vaccination, weaning, or even just moving or sorting animals, especially in young, rapidly growing animals.
Other factors: Some studies have shown that other factors may also contribute, but a lack of adequate selenium and vitamin E is the primary cause.
