Dietary supplementation of protexin and artichoke extract for modulating growth performance and oxidative stress in broilers

Application of phytobiotic and probiotic in poultry production can positive effect on performance and produce healthy protein source for human. In this study, the effects of one commercial probiotic and phytobiotic was evaluated on chicken performance. Totally, 300 chicks were divided into 4 groups that fed basal diet, diet containing probiotic (Protexin), phytobiotic (AE), and probiotic (Protexin) plus phytobiotic (AE) in all over the growing period. The growth indices were measured weekly and analyzed in 21 and 42 days of age. At the 42 days of age, blood samples were collected from all chickens. The concentration of liver enzymes, lipid profiles and antioxidant status were measured in blood samples. Results showed that the weight gain was significantly higher and FCR significantly lower in chickens received probiotic, or probiotic plus phytobiotic in comparison with chickens received phytobiotic and control chickens (p<0.05). Furthermore, addition of phytobiotic plus probiotic can significantly increase the activity of blood GPx and TAS with respect to chickens that received probiotic and phytobiotic, alonely. The TG, CHL, and LDL was lower and HDL was higher in chickens received phytobiotic or probiotic plus phytobiotic with the comparison of chickens fed probiotic and control chickens (p <0.05). The level of AST, ALT and ALP show significant decrease in chickens fed probiotic plus phytobiotic. In conclusion, continuous utilization of probiotic (Protexin) along with phytobiotic (Artichoke extract) in broiler diets can improve growth indices, increase antioxidant capacity, reduce serum lipids and improve liver function in broiler chickens.