Probiotics supplementation in broiler chicken diets promotes antioxidant defense and performance indices

The study investigated the Triiodothyronine, oxidative stress markers and performance indices of broiler chicken fed diets supplemented with probiotics. A total of 200 a-day old arbor acres broiler chickens were utilized, consisting of 0%, 0.3%, 0.6% and 0.9% of probiotics as D1, D2, D3 and D4 respectively. Performance indices were taken weekly. Blood sample was collected from 3 birds per replicate into plain sample and heparinized bottles for serum to assay oxidative stress markers and triiodothyronine were assayed using standard procedure. Final weight and Weight gain of birds in D1, D2 and D3 were significantly (p<0.05) higher than birds in D4. Pack cell volume of birds in D1 and D2 were significantly (p<0.05) higher than Pack cell volume of birds in D3 and D4.. Serum albumin peaked in D2 (2.19 g/dL) but lower in D1 (1.30 g/dL) and D3 (1.29 g/dL). Total Antioxidant capacity of birds in D2 was significantly (p<0.05) higher than Total Antioxidant capacity of birds in D1. Triiodothyronine of birds in D1 and D3 were significantly (p<0.05) higher than Triiodothyronine of birds in D2 and D4. In conclusion, 0.3% probiotic supplementation (D2) resulted in optimal antioxidant status and growth performance in broilers.