During training the athlete's immune system is in a fine balance between not responding and over-reacting. When the immune system responds, it draws vital energy and protein away from muscle and other tissues to fight the infection. It is therefore essential that any bacterial and/or viral infections are quickly treated otherwise there will be a reduction in performance and race times.

As well as changes in the immune system during training, the level of 'free radicals' increases in the lungs. These 'free radicals' lead to an unfavourable metabolic condition, which increases the susceptibility of the lungs to viral and/or bacterial attack. Such a challenge leads to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, the membranes of the lungs and possibly the lymph system.

A consequence of the above is that a sub-clinical disease challenge can have a significantly greater effect than would normally be expected. This increased vulnerability to infection during training has been identified in both humans and performance animals. This can then result in 'post viral fatigue syndrome', where the athlete takes longer to recover, sometimes resulting in secondary infections.

Research from human sports nutrition has shown that supplementation with natural anti-viral and anti-microbial components in combination with anti-oxidants, has clear beneficial effects. These components provide additional support to the body's immune system, thereby enabling a faster return to intensive training.

During rigorous exercise free radical formation takes place in all tissues, particularly in the lungs. These radicals lead to unfavourable metabolic conditions in the lungs and subsequent inflammation of the membranes, reducing oxygen uptake. A specific blend of antioxidants and vitamins are also included in the product.

Essential oils and herbs are included as an aid to reducing the level of harmful bacteria in the intestine. In addition, these ingredients also reduce the effect of viral infection. Phyto-nutrients are added for their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

XL Mune should be fed as follows:

For horses suffering from 'post viral fatigue syndrome a split-feeding regime is recommended. Mix 40g of XL Mune twice a day into a small amount of water and feed for 10 days. If necersary, after a 5-day break feed 40g once day for a further 5 days.

XL Mune can also be fed to horses that appear to be 'under the weather' to prevent further infection and give their immune system a boost. In these circumstances mix 40g of the product into the water, each morning for 10 days.

The feeding recommendations should be adjusted according to liveweight (guideline weight 450-550kg) and the level of exercise. Contact Park Tonks Ltd for further information.

XL Mune is supplied in 2.5kg and 5 kg tubs.

It is recommended that the tubs are kept closed during storage in a cool, dry condition. The product has a shelf life of 12 months from date of manufacture.