Balancing Carbohydrates for High Producing Cows

Abstract

With increasing milk production and emphasis on milk protein, meeting the nutrient needs of dairy cows is becoming a greater challenge. A balanced ration provides the correct amounts of nutrient for maximal microbial growth and end product yield (volatile fatty acids and microbial protein) plus undegraded nutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fats) meeting the cow's productive needs (milk, growth, reproduction, and maintenance). Carbohydrates make up 70 percent of the ration and serve as the primary source of energy for lactating cows. This paper will discuss structural, non-structural, and functional carbohydrate components of the dairy ration (Table 1).