BLOGS > THE IMPACT OF HEAT STRESS ON GUT HEALTH IN CHICKENS

THE IMPACT OF HEAT STRESS ON GUT HEALTH IN CHICKENS

03/03/2025 Poultry

Heat stress is a significant challenge for poultry producers worldwide, especially in warmer climates. While the effects on egg production and growth are well-documented, the impact on chicken gut health is often overlooked. A healthy gut is crucial for nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall well-being. When chickens experience heat stress, their gut health can be severely compromised, leading to a cascade of negative consequences.

HOW HEAT STRESS AFFECTS CHICKEN GUT HEALTH

Chickens, unlike humans, don’t sweat. They rely on panting to dissipate heat, which can be inefficient, especially in high humidity. This physiological stress triggers a series of reactions that directly impact the gut:

  • Increased Intestinal Permeability (“Leaky Gut”): Heat stress disrupts the tight junctions between intestinal cells. These junctions act as a barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. When compromised, the gut becomes “leaky,” allowing bacteria, toxins, and undigested feed particles to cross the intestinal lining. This triggers inflammation and can lead to systemic infections.
  • Changes in Gut Microbiota: The gut is home to a diverse community of microorganisms, the gut microbiota, essential for digestion and immunity. Heat stress can disrupt the balance of this community, reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing harmful bacteria. This dysbiosis further compromises gut function and increases susceptibility to disease.
  • Reduced Nutrient Absorption: A leaky gut and altered microbiota impair the chicken’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. This can lead to deficiencies, even if the birds are consuming adequate feed, resulting in reduced growth performance and lower egg production.
  • Compromised Immune Function: The gut-associated immune tissue (GALT) is the largest immune organ in the body. Heat stress weakens the GALT, making chickens more susceptible to infections like Salmonella, E. coli, and coccidiosis.
  • Oxidative Stress: Heat stress increases the production of reactive oxygen species (free radicals) in the body, leading to oxidative stress. This can damage cellular components, including the intestinal lining, further exacerbating gut issues.


MITIGATING THE EFFECTS OF HEAT STRESS GUT HEALTH


Addressing heat stress is crucial for maintaining chicken gut health and overall productivity. Here are some strategies:


    

  • Environmental Management:

      

    • Adequate Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to remove heat and humidity from the poultry house.
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    • Shade and Cooling: Provide shade in outdoor runs and consider using evaporative cooling systems, misters, or fans in enclosed housing.
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    • Stocking Density: Reduce stocking density to allow for better air circulation and reduce body heat load.
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    • Water Availability: Ensure access to cool, fresh water at all times. Water intake increases significantly during heat stress.
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Elan®C4, developed and produced by Olus, is a specially formulated feed additive designed to support gut health in poultry during heat stress. Elan®C4 is based on Tributyrin and Monobutyrin, both forms of butyric acid derivatives. This product helps minimise inflammation and supports gut immune function.




HOW TO USE ELAN®C4:


    

  • Use 500 grams of Elan®C4 per ton of feed for at least one week
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  • For water application, add 500 ml of liquid Elan®C4 per 1,000 liters of drinking water
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CONCLUSION:


Heat stress poses a significant threat to chicken gut health, impacting nutrient absorption, immunity, and overall productivity. By implementing effective environmental management strategies, nutritional interventions and the targeted use of Elan®C4, poultry producers can mitigate the negative effects of heat stress and maintain the health and well-being of their flocks. A healthy gut is essential for optimal chicken performance, and prioritizing gut health during periods of heat stress is a key to success in poultry production.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR




Muhammad Suleman – Regional Manager South East Asia and Middle East


Muhammad Suleman, Regional Manager for Southeast Asia and the Middle East, has joined the Olus team since 2023. His involvement with Olus brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the poultry industry. With years of experience and extensive knowledge of the complexities of poultry farming, Muhammad has a deep understanding of the market. Within Olus, he is actively involved in developing new feed additives and exploring nutritional strategies to improve gut health and performance in a sustainable way.


 

                    

                            

            
            

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