Which nutrients are associated with preventing white muscle disease?

• A. Calcium and phosphorus
• B. Selenium or Vitamin E
• C. Vitamin C and zinc
• D. Iron and copper

Answer: (B)

White muscle disease is prevented by antioxidant nutrients that protect muscle tissue from oxidative damage, notably selenium and Vitamin E. Selenium is a key part of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which helps neutralize peroxides that can injure muscle cells, while Vitamin E protects cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. When animals don’t get enough of these nutrients, developing muscles can suffer degeneration, leading to weakness and stiff gait in young livestock. Providing adequate selenium in the diet or through supplements, and ensuring sufficient Vitamin E intake (especially in neonates) effectively reduces risk. Other nutrient groups aren’t directly linked to preventing this disease, since they pertain more to bone health, blood-related issues, or other aspects of nutrition.