As a result, they produce less saliva. Therefore, fewer natural buffers are present to neutralize acids. So, buffer supplementation should be considered. Adding buffers has the effect of shifting the lines in the figure to the left, even when buffers are added to rations with 40 to 50 percent grain. One should not be misled by a laboratory analysis of a ration, an analysis that may indicate an adequate fiber level.
Saliva production is decreased.
Under such conditions, ruminal changes and a lower milkfat test may occur, even when grain comprises a smaller proportion of the total ration. Recent research has demonstrated that high intakes of high-energy feeds result in a lower utilization of dietary starch. This decline in starch digestibility has been related to a decreased activity of an intestinal starch-digesting enzyme, pancreatic alpha amylase. Thus, compounds that act to buffer the pH of the intestines or to elevate the pH by providing an alkaline reserve may enhance the animal's performance. Cows of average production and those beyond their peak lactation as well as heifers and dry cows are not likely to benefit from the addition of buffers to the diet.