What supplement is recommended for calves with stiff and swollen joints?

Vitamin E and selenium (Se) are key nutrients known for their roles in maintaining immune function and reducing inflammation. In calves, stiffness and swollen joints can indicators of nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamin E and selenium, which are often involved in muscle function and the prevention of oxidative stress.

When calves lack adequate vitamin E, they may develop muscular disorders, including white muscle disease, which is characterized by muscle stiffness, inflammation, and swelling. Selenium works synergistically with vitamin E to protect cells from damage due to free radicals, which can exacerbate these conditions. So, supplementing with vitamin E and selenium can help alleviate the issues associated with stiff and swollen joints in calves by promoting better muscle and joint health.

In contrast, while calcium, magnesium, and vitamin A play essential roles in overall health, they are not primarily associated with joint stiffness or swelling in calves. Calcium is primarily involved in bone health and muscle contraction. Magnesium is crucial for several biochemical reactions but does not directly address the joint symptoms presented. Vitamin A is vital for vision and immune function, but it does not have a specific relation to joint health in the context of stiffness and swelling. Thus, vitamin E along with selenium is the most appropriate choice to address the symptoms in this case.