Fast regeneration after each race is our first priority during the week. Science has given us some good advice on how to approach the needs of the horse.
Every race is a strain and the longer the flight time, the more energy is needed. Today, every well-read breeder should know that carbohydrates are metabolized first and after an hour of flight, fats are mainly used as an energy source. Protein burning is of no importance as an energy source during the flight. Regardless of whether there is a tailwind or a headwind, energy reserves are immediately built up again after each race. The easiest and quickest way to store carbohydrates is in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscles.
In order to shorten the regeneration phase, it is therefore sensible to feed carbohydrates as early as possible. The “quickest” way to do this is via the water and a little longer with carbohydrate-rich grains. The drinking trough also has the advantage that the pigeons usually drink plenty of water immediately after arrival, meaning that the regeneration of these energy reserves begins very early. A combination of fast and long-lasting carbohydrates is recommended, which allows the important blood sugar level to be kept constant.
In addition to replenishing glycogen stores, the antioxidant vitamin C can help to stabilize the body's own defenses and accelerate regeneration processes at a cellular level. Vitamin C promotes iron absorption in the intestine, is involved in protein metabolism and the body's own hormone synthesis. It is also known that this valuable vitamin is indirectly involved in fat burning in the muscles. A vitamin C dose immediately after the flight is also recommended.
Another factor in longer races is the increased fat burning, oxidation of free fatty acids and the associated formation of so-called 'ketone bodies'.
Therefore, after flights of more than 2 hours, we also recommend feeding the organic phosphorus butaphosphane to accelerate the regeneration of metabolic byproducts. This substance has been used in livestock farming for many years to relieve the liver and regenerate after physical exertion. Especially after moderate and severe exhaustion, you can see how quickly the pigeons overcome the physical strain and regenerate.
