Major minerals neglected in dairy farming - Potassium, Magnesium and Sulfur

Potassium is a vital component of milk, yet many people are unaware that it is the most abundant mineral in milk. During lactation, the need for potassium exceeds that of calcium and phosphorus. For example, a dairy cow producing 40 kg of milk daily requires about 60 g of potassium, 40 g of phosphorus, and 48 g of calcium. Approximately 25% to 40% of the potassium consumed by the cow is transferred into the milk. In addition, other physiological processes during lactation also require significant amounts of potassium. A deficiency can lead to weight loss or reduced milk yield, and prolonged deficiencies may cause serious health issues.

Potassium is the most abundant mineral in muscle tissue and plays a key role in maintaining cellular function. Sodium is primarily found in extracellular fluids, while potassium is mainly located inside cells. Potassium helps regulate acid-base balance, ion balance, and water balance within the cell, contributing to osmotic pressure regulation. It is essential for nerve and muscle cell function, particularly through the sodium-potassium pump, which maintains the transport of substances across the cell membrane. The balance between potassium and calcium is crucial for normal muscle activity; excess calcium can cause muscle stiffness (calcium rigidity), while too much potassium may result in muscle relaxation (potassium inhibition). Since cows cannot store much potassium, it must be provided daily to support their physiological needs.

2. Magnesium

Magnesium makes up about 70% of the minerals in an animal's bones, 29% in soft tissues like nerve cells, and only 1% in extracellular fluids. As animals age, their ability to utilize magnesium from bones decreases. Lactating cows can only use about 2% of the total magnesium stored in their bones, making daily dietary supplementation essential, especially for high-producing dairy cows.

Magnesium acts as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in protein synthesis and energy metabolism, playing a central role in almost all metabolic processes. It is also highly concentrated in nerve cells. A lack of magnesium increases nerve excitability and muscle contractions, potentially leading to disorders such as lactation convulsions or grass tetany. Symptoms include loss of appetite, lethargy, muscle tremors, and even death if untreated.

To prevent magnesium deficiency, it’s important to add magnesium-rich minerals to the diet. However, absorption rates vary depending on the type of magnesium source. Pasture-based diets have lower magnesium availability (10–20%), while grains offer better absorption (30–40%). Additionally, factors like heat stress or high levels of unsaturated fatty acids in the diet can reduce magnesium absorption, requiring higher dietary levels. Studies show that increasing magnesium intake improves nutrient digestibility and overall performance in dairy cows.

3. Sulfur

Sulfur is essential for protein synthesis and enzyme activity, playing a more critical role in ruminants than in pigs. It is involved in various metabolic processes, including the formation of vitamins like thiamine and biotin. Sulfur also helps detoxify the body by converting harmful substances into non-toxic sulfates, which are then excreted through urine.

In dairy cows, sulfur contributes to the digestion of fiber and the synthesis of bacterial proteins in the rumen. Adding sulfur compounds like sodium sulfate to the diet has been shown to improve milk production, feed efficiency, and economic returns. Research indicates that adding 0.8% sodium sulfate to the diet can increase milk yield by up to 13%, while also enhancing the digestibility of fiber and crude protein. Sulfur is also necessary for the formation of chondroitin, a key component of cartilage and connective tissues.

In conclusion, minerals like potassium, magnesium, and sulfur—often overlooked—play a critical role in the health and productivity of dairy cows. Ensuring adequate intake of these elements not only prevents metabolic disorders but also supports optimal growth and milk production, ultimately improving the economic viability of dairy farming.

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