Researchers tested whether adding two natural substances—selenium (a mineral) and anthocyanins (colorful plant compounds from purple corn)—could improve the health of pregnant goats. They fed 48 pregnant goats different diets for 35 days and measured changes in digestion, blood health, and gut bacteria. Goats that received both supplements together showed the best results, including better digestion, stronger immune systems, healthier cholesterol levels, and improved gut bacteria balance. This research suggests that combining these two nutrients may help pregnant animals stay healthier during pregnancy.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether adding selenium (a mineral) and anthocyanins (natural purple plant pigments) to pregnant goat food would improve their health, digestion, immune system, and gut bacteria.
  • Who participated: 48 pregnant goats that were about 98 days into pregnancy, all weighing around 45 kilograms (about 100 pounds), divided into 4 equal groups.
  • Key finding: Goats receiving both selenium and anthocyanins together showed the most improvement in digestion, immune function, and gut health compared to goats eating regular food without these supplements.
  • What it means for you: While this study was done on goats, it suggests that combining these two natural nutrients may help pregnant animals maintain better health. However, this research doesn’t directly apply to humans yet—more studies would be needed to know if similar benefits occur in people.

The Research Details

Scientists divided 48 pregnant goats into four groups. One group ate regular food (the control group), and three other groups ate the same food but with added supplements: one group got selenium, another got anthocyanins from purple corn, and the last group got both supplements together. All goats ate their assigned diets for 35 days while the researchers measured changes in their digestion, blood health, and gut bacteria.

The researchers chose this design because it allowed them to test each supplement alone and in combination, helping them understand whether the supplements work better together or separately. They used a ‘randomized’ approach, meaning goats were randomly assigned to groups to avoid bias.

This type of study is considered reliable because it compares multiple groups eating different diets under controlled conditions, making it easier to see which changes are caused by the supplements rather than other factors.

This research approach matters because it tests whether natural supplements can improve animal health during pregnancy, which is an important time. By measuring multiple health markers (digestion, immunity, blood chemistry, and gut bacteria), the researchers could see the full picture of how these nutrients affect the body. Understanding how these nutrients work in animals can provide clues about their potential benefits in other species.

This study has several strengths: it used a reasonable number of animals (48), tested multiple health measures, and compared groups receiving different treatments. The study was published in Scientific Reports, a well-respected scientific journal. However, the study was relatively short (35 days), so we don’t know about long-term effects. Also, because this was done on goats, we can’t automatically assume the same results would happen in humans or other animals without additional research.

What the Results Show

Goats that received the combination of selenium and anthocyanins (called SeAn) showed the most impressive improvements. Their bodies digested protein and phosphorus better than goats eating regular food. The SeAn group also had higher levels of protective enzymes (superoxide dismutase and catalase) that fight harmful molecules in the body, and lower levels of glucose and malondialdehyde (a marker of cell damage).

All groups receiving supplements showed stronger immune systems, with higher levels of immunoglobulin A, which helps fight infections. The SeAn group had the best results overall, with lower cholesterol levels and higher progesterone (a hormone important during pregnancy).

The supplements also changed how the goats’ stomachs worked. Goats receiving anthocyanins or the combination treatment produced more butyric acid and propionic acid (healthy fermentation products) and less acetic acid. These changes suggest better gut health and more efficient digestion.

The researchers also examined the bacteria living in the goats’ stomachs (rumen microbiota). Goats receiving anthocyanins or the combination treatment had increased amounts of beneficial bacteria called Ruminococcus and Butyrivibrio, which are known to support digestive health. The combination treatment decreased harmful bacteria called Verrucomicrobiota. These changes in gut bacteria composition suggest that the supplements promote a healthier microbial community in the digestive system.

Previous research has shown that selenium and anthocyanins individually have antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. This study builds on that knowledge by showing that combining these two nutrients may produce even better results than using either one alone. The findings align with existing research showing that certain plant compounds and minerals can improve digestive health and immune function in animals.

This study has several important limitations to consider. First, it only lasted 35 days, so we don’t know if the benefits continue over longer periods or if they fade over time. Second, the study was conducted only on goats, so we cannot assume the same results would occur in humans or other animal species without additional research. Third, the study focused on pregnant goats specifically, so results may not apply to non-pregnant animals. Finally, the researchers didn’t measure whether these changes actually improved pregnancy outcomes or offspring health, which would be important practical measures.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, there is moderate evidence that combining selenium and anthocyanins may support digestive health, immune function, and metabolic balance in pregnant goats. However, these findings are specific to goats and should not be applied to humans without human studies. If you’re interested in these nutrients for personal health, consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or supplement routine.

This research is most relevant to goat farmers and veterinarians who manage pregnant goats and want to optimize their nutrition. Scientists studying animal nutrition and natural supplements should also find this valuable. While the findings are interesting, they should not be used to make health decisions for humans without additional human research. People with specific health conditions should always consult healthcare providers before using supplements.

In this study, changes in digestion and immune markers appeared within 35 days. However, longer-term studies would be needed to determine if benefits persist over months or if they eventually plateau. For practical farm applications, farmers might expect to see improvements in animal health within 4-6 weeks of dietary changes, though individual results may vary.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If managing livestock, track daily feed intake, weight gain, and visible health markers (coat quality, energy level, reproductive success) weekly. For personal interest in these nutrients, users could track energy levels, digestion comfort, and immune health (frequency of illness) if supplementing with selenium and anthocyanin-rich foods.
  • For livestock managers: implement the combined supplement protocol and monitor for improvements in animal productivity and health. For general users interested in these nutrients: incorporate anthocyanin-rich foods (purple corn, blueberries, blackberries) and selenium-rich foods (Brazil nuts, whole grains, eggs) into your diet, tracking any changes in how you feel.
  • Establish baseline measurements before starting supplements (weight, digestion patterns, energy levels, illness frequency), then measure the same metrics every 2-4 weeks. Keep a simple log noting any changes in overall health, digestion, or immune function. If using this for livestock, track production metrics (milk yield, weight gain, reproductive success) monthly.

This research was conducted on pregnant goats and should not be directly applied to human health without additional human studies. While the findings are scientifically interesting, selenium and anthocyanin supplements should only be used in humans under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and people with existing health conditions should consult their doctor before using any supplements. This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or supplement routine.