The Impact of an Anti-Weight Loss Booster with Ascorbic Acid and GABA on Thin-Tailed Sheep Following Transportation

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of ascorbic acid and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) supplementation
on the physiological responses of thin-tailed sheep subjected to transportation stress. The research was conducted in
Lakaran Village, Wonosobo District, Tanggamus, Lampung, involving 20 male thin-tailed sheep divided into four
treatment groups: control (R0), ascorbic acid 100 mg/kg (R1), GABA 0.3 g/head (R2), and a combination of ascorbic
acid 100 mg/kg + GABA 0.3 g/head (R3). The results indicate that the combination of ascorbic acid and GABA (R3)
significantly reduced body weight loss, demonstrating a synergistic effect in alleviating stress compared to single or no
supplementation. The respiratory rates in the supplemented groups (R1, R2, R3) showed better stabilization than the
control group, with R3 approaching normal levels. Although all treatment groups exhibited increased heart rates and
rectal temperatures due to the stressful transport environment, the combination approach proved to be more effective in
managing stress. Overall, this study highlights the potential of ascorbic acid and GABA as suplement strategies to
enhance livestock welfare during transportation, contributing to better farming practices.