Bile Acid Supplementation Improves Sow Reproductive Performance and Piglet Growth

In modern swine production, sow nutrition plays a decisive role in reproductive success and the health of piglets. Especially during late gestation and lactation, energy and nutrient requirements increase sharply, while conventional feed supplementation strategies often face limitations in nutrient utilization. Recent research highlights the potential of dietary bile acid supplementation to address these challenges.

Why Bile Acids Matter

Bile acids are amphipathic molecules synthesized from cholesterol in the liver. Their core function is to promote the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins. During lactation, sows require additional energy to support milk production. Although dietary fat is often added to sow diets, inadequate endogenous bile acid secretion can limit its digestion and absorption. Supplementing exogenous bile acids provides a practical solution to improve energy efficiency.

Research Findings

A study conducted by Nanjing Agricultural University evaluated the effects of adding bile acids (50 ppm, 100 ppm, 150 ppm, 200 ppm) to sow diets from the last month of gestation through lactation. The trial analyzed reproductive performance, colostrum composition, serum indices, and intestinal microbiota. Key findings include:

• Improved Piglet Weaning Weights
  Piglets from bile acid-supplemented sows achieved significantly higher weaning weights compared with the control group.

• Enhanced Colostrum Nutrition
  Colostrum from supplemented sows contained higher triglyceride and protein levels, providing stronger nutritional and immune support for newborn piglets.

• Optimized Intestinal Microbiota
  The 100 ppm group showed increased abundance of beneficial bacteria (Turicibacter, Lachnospiraceae) and reduced harmful Escherichia-Shigella, suggesting bile acids help maintain a healthier gut environment.

Implications for Swine Production

These results demonstrate that bile acid supplementation in sow diets during late gestation and lactation can:

• Improve nutrient utilization and energy efficiency

• Enhance reproductive performance

• Strengthen piglet growth and health outcomes

This research provides scientific evidence for integrating bile acids into sow feeding strategies to improve both productivity and sustainability in modern pig farming.

Our Solution — BilePro

At VEGAPHARMA, we are committed to delivering innovative nutritional solutions backed by science. BilePro, our premium bile acid product, is designed to:

• Improve fat digestion and nutrient absorption

• Enhance colostrum quality for stronger piglets

• Support healthy gut microflora

• Deliver consistent, reliable performance with high purity and stability

Learn more about BilePro and how it can support your production goals: www.vegapharma.com

Reference: The above findings are based on research conducted by Nanjing Agricultural University.

VEGAPHARMA — Science-driven solutions for healthier animals and better performance.