Electrolytic balance in laying poultry diets

The electrolyte balance of the diet is defined as the difference between the main cations and anions of the diet. As in heat stress situations the respiratory rate rises, there is an increase in the carbon dioxide loss which reflects in the reduction of the partial blood pressure of CO2, and an elevation of the blood pH. The electrolyte balance of the diet can influence appetite, bone development, response to heat stress and the metabolism of amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. In the last years, it has been verified that the diet manipulation can be a way to improve the quantitative and qualitative performance of laying birds, appearing as a viable nutritional alternative and of easy practical application. In this context, this mini-review aims to approach the main aspects of the electrolytic balance in the diet of laying birds.