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<< Bottom line: the top ten performers in both groups were fed
an average of 11-12% protein in their total ration and an
average of 5 lbs of grain. In the
endurance study the horses that failed to complete (n= only 4)
had a tendency (p<.06) to be fed more grain and less hay than
the ones which completed (n=50). Only 13 of the endurance horses were fed
only alfalfa, and if memory serves me right, most of those were
from (surprise) California. The number of puls was so low,
however, that statistically it was hard to draw conclusions regarding
protein, but the conclusion was made that feeding more than average
protein did not confer any benefit. >>
This is what I call tunnel vision--protein is not supposed to confer benefit
during a ride or race. It is a component for building muscle and structural
tissues, long term. I'd say your conclusions about protein here indicate
nothing about the actual job protein should be doing (I'd actually suggest a
lower protein, higher carb diet on competition days) but rather, it does
little harm in the quantities used by the winners.
It is the extrapolations of most scientific papers where we get into big
trouble. The data is usually right but incorrect conclusions lead everyone
astray.
ti
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