More energy. More stability. More willingness to perform in the racing season.

When racing pigeons go on races, they perform exceptionally well.
Their metabolism works at full speed during continuous flight with up to 10-15 times the resting metabolic rate. While other animal species mainly rely on carbohydrates during exercise, racing pigeons mainly use fat as an energy source. This is precisely where their enormous endurance potential lies - but also a potential bottleneck.

Anyone who understands the power metabolism can Feeding, training and regeneration and thus create the basis for consistent performance throughout the entire racing season.

Why the energy metabolism decides between victory and mediocrity

The large pectoral muscle (pectoralis major) is the power centre of the carrier pigeon. It is rich in mitochondria, the „power stations of the cell“, and is optimally supplied with blood.

However, three decisive stress factors occur under racing flight conditions:

- The transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria can have a limiting effect
- The muscles can become over-acidified due to high levels of stress
- The increased oxygen turnover increases oxidative cell stress

This is where functional nutrients such as L-carnitine, beta-alanine, L-histidine, taurine, vitamin E, vitamin C and selenium come into play.

L-carnitine - the door opener for fat burning

L-carnitine plays a key role in energy metabolism. It transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are used to generate energy.

What does that mean in practical terms?

- More efficient fat utilisation
- More stable power supply over long distances
- Support for aerobic endurance performance

Studies on racing pigeons showed lower plasma lactate levels after carnitine supplementation and faster normalisation of the heart rate after exercise. This indicates more efficient energy utilisation and better recovery.

This mechanism can be crucial, especially in long-distance flight, when every energy reserve counts.

Beta-alanine & L-histidine - protection against hyperacidity

When the muscle works hard, acids are produced. If the buffer capacity is exceeded, performance decreases.

This is where carnosine, the body's own acid buffer, comes into play.
The body needs beta-alanine and histidine in order to produce carnosine.

Important to know:
Beta-alanine is the limiting factor. Studies show that several weeks of supplementation significantly increases the carnosine level in the muscle.

The consequences:

- Delayed muscle acidification
- More stable contractility
- More load stability at the crucial moment

However, the lead time is crucial, as a short-term administration on the day of use is not sufficient.

Taurine - stability for the heart and cells

Taurine is particularly strong in heart and muscle tissue.

Its functions:

- Stabilisation of the cell membranes
- Regulation of the calcium balance in the heart muscle
- Supporting the water balance during heat stress
- Protection against oxidative stress

This mechanism is particularly relevant in endurance flight, when the heart and muscles are constantly working.

Antioxidant protection: vitamin E, vitamin C & selenium

High performance means high oxygen turnover and thus the formation of free radicals.

Vitamin E protects the cell membranes and the mitochondria.
Selenium supports antioxidant enzymes and supplements the effect of vitamin E.
Vitamin C regenerates oxidised vitamin E and stabilises the entire protective system, especially under stress, heat and transport conditions.

Poultry studies show that combined supplementation can reduce oxidative muscle markers.

Feeding recommendations for racing pigeons in the preparation phase

The foundation for a stable competition season is already laid in the training and preparation phase.

In this phase, the focus is on the continuous build-up of metabolic capacity:

- Early supplementation with L-carnitine to support the transport of fatty acids
- Start beta-alanine supplementation at least 3-4 weeks before the first competition flights
- Development of the antioxidant protection system with vitamin E, vitamin C and selenium
- Continuous supply of taurine to stabilise heart and muscle cells

The aim is to optimally prepare the energetic and cellular systems before the first high load.

Feeding during the competition season: stabilise instead of improvise

During the current competition season, the focus is no longer on building up, but on stabilising and maintaining performance.

Key points:

- Continuous supply of L-carnitine to ensure an increased carnitine content in the muscle tissue
- Continuation of the beta-alanine supply to maintain the buffering capacity
- Antioxidant accompaniment to control oxidative stress
- Taurine supports cell and heart metabolism

A purely selective administration on the day of use cannot have a lasting effect on these processes.
Physiological logic speaks in favour of continuous support during the training and travel phases.

Regeneration phase after the race: the basis for the next top performance

After the flight, the decisive phase for the next performance begins.

Regeneration focusses on the following mechanisms:

- Restoration of the acid-base balance
- Reduction of oxidative stress
- Stabilisation of the cell membranes
- Support for the heart and muscle cells
- Replenishment of performance-relevant amino acids

Antioxidant components and taurine play an important role here.
L-carnitine can also contribute to metabolic stabilisation by maintaining energy metabolism and supporting mitochondrial function.

Targeted support through RecoverAmin Forte

A regeneration concept such as RecoverAmin Forte is specifically positioned in this sensitive phase after the race.

The combination of valuable amino acids provides support:

- muscular regeneration
- the reconstruction of strained muscle structures
- Stabilisation of the metabolism after intensive exercise

Amino acids are particularly relevant after a flight, as they are needed for repair and adaptation processes in the muscle.

Intestinal stability and metabolic balance with SymBiotic

In addition to muscle regeneration, the stability of the digestive system also plays a central role. Exercise, transport and race stress can influence the intestinal flora.

This is where a concept like SymBiotic comes in and provides support:

- stabilisation of the intestinal flora
- improved nutrient utilisation
- the overall metabolic balance

Stable intestinal function is a prerequisite for optimum absorption of performance-relevant nutrients in the subsequent training and competition phase.

A structured regeneration strategy consisting of antioxidant protection, metabolic stabilisation, targeted amino acid supply and intestinal support is decisive for how quickly a racing pigeon is ready to perform again.

If you manage your regeneration professionally, you not only secure your current form, but also build the basis for consistent top performances throughout the entire competition season.

Practical relevance: Modern supplementation strategies in racing pigeon sport

In specialised feed supplements CarniBoost For racing pigeons, there are combined formulations with L-carnitine, beta-alanine, histidine, taurine and antioxidant protective factors.

The liquid application via drinking water enables even absorption and rapid availability.

This supply concept through „CarniBoost“ is based on the principle of metabolic synergy.

Conclusion: Performance is no coincidence - it's metabolism

The modern racing season demands more than just good training.

Those who understand the physiological basis of energy metabolism and provide targeted support create the basis for:

- Constant energy supply
- Reduced metabolic stress
- More stable regeneration
- Sustainable performance

👉 Would you like to not only train your racing pigeons, but also support them metabolically at a top level?

Then rely on a well thought-out feeding strategy from the preparation phase through to regeneration.
Find out now about performance-physiologically based supplement concepts at BergerPIGEONS.com and turn your team's metabolism into your competitive advantage. stay.

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Why does the time of launch also determine success or failure?

Many growers ask: "When should I start the BergerPearls No.1 start?"
My counter-question: Why wait when the decisive advantage is an early start?

BergerPearls No.1 is not just a feed supplement. It is a scientifically based, functional nutritional concept that combines energy, intestinal health, immune modulation and antimicrobial stability. These mechanisms of action only develop their full potential if pigeons are familiarised with the pearls early and regularly.

The experience gained from over 40 years of breeding and product development and the current scientific analysis and data on BergerPearls No1 clearly show that:

Whoever starts in winter wins in spring.
If you start late, you give away performance and stability.

This blog article shows you why the right start time is a hidden performance factor in racing pigeon racing and how you can BergerPearls No.1 optimally.

Why BergerPearls No.1 redefines the feeding of modern racing pigeons

BergerPearls No.1 combine several functions that were previously only available via many individual products. Each pearl contains:

• an energy-rich peanut kernel base
• Probiotics and prebiotics
• Digestive enzymes
• Beta-glucans and colostrum
• MCT fatty acids
• Toxin binders such as bentonite and zeolite
• essential vitamins and chelated trace elements
• Herbal active ingredients such as carvacrol (oregano extract)

These components are scientifically documented, safe and effective to use.

The gentle pelletising process protects particularly heat-sensitive substances such as probiotics or plant extracts and ensures that the pearls remain fully active, which is a key advantage over conventional pellets, extrudates and other preparations.

Why winter is the ideal time to start

The best moment, BergerPearls No.1 into your stroke is now in the resting phase.
Why?

1. Hunger intensifies learning processes
   Pigeons are most likely to accept new feed when temperatures are low and the metabolism "rewards food".
2. No travelling load
   Without training and competition flights, the animals are calmer, more receptive and less stressed. The acceptance of new feed components is significantly higher.
3. The resting phase creates ideal conditions
   In winter, there is much more calmness in the barn and no changing conditions. This relaxed basic situation makes it easier to introduce new feed components in a calm and controlled manner.
4. Microbiome and immune system benefit from early start
   Probiotics, beta-glucans, colostrum and MCT fatty acids require Days to weeksto fully develop their effect. Late starters do not have this advantage.
5. The transition to breeding and training becomes easier
   A stable gut means:
   - fewer fluctuations in shape
   - Faster regeneration
   - lower infection pressure
   - calm moulting and breeding

Short: Those who start early start the pigeon year with a head start.

The introduction strategy: How to feed BergerPearls No.1 correctly right from the start

Stage 1: Separate pre-feeding (2-3 days)

This phase determines acceptance and long-term success.

Procedure:

• in the morning before a small amount of beads into the feed chute from the grain mixture
• all pigeons eat reliably due to the hunger instinct

Why separate?
Pigeons must use the pearls as Independent, attractive component get to know.
Only when each pigeon picks up the beads safely does step 2 take place.

This is a key value from practical experience and is also biologically understandable, as pigeons learn to recognise and appreciate new food primarily through positive experiences.

Stage 2: Mixed feeding (5 % during the rest period)

As soon as the entire stock safely eats the pearls:

• Beads in a quantity of 5 % Mix with the grain feed
• daily or at least 5-6 days per week
• No additional mixing with oils etc. necessary

Scientific background:
The analysis clearly shows that continuous small amounts of probiotics, MCTs and beta-glucans are physiologically much more effective than high single doses. The reason is simple: probiotics require daily repeated stimuli in order to form stable colonies and protect the mucous membranes in the long term. MCT fatty acids only develop their selective antimicrobial effect optimally if they are regularly available in the intestinal lumen and thus build up constant pressure on pathogenic germs. Beta-glucans, on the other hand, modulate the immune system not through peak loads, but through continuous activation of the receptors of macrophages and dendritic cells. Small daily amounts therefore ensure a calm, resilient immune response, improved mucous membrane protection and a stable intestinal barrier and thus precisely the basis that pigeons need for regeneration, training stress and defence against infection.

Stage 3: Increase for breeding preparation (10 % for 7-10 days)

One week before mating, the 10 % increased.

Reason:

• Metabolism changes
• Hormonal activity increases
• Egg formation, mucous membranes and brood load require micronutrient reserves

Scientific background:

The week before mating is a phase of profound physiological changes. The pigeon's organism prepares for hormonal activation, pair bonding, nest building and subsequent egg formation. These processes are highly metabolically active and generate a significantly increased need for energy, micronutrients and functional protective factors.

The 7-10 day increase to 10 % BergerPearls No.1 before mating covers the increasing physiological requirements in this sensitive conversion phase. Shortly before breeding, metabolism and hormone activity increase; fat, protein and micronutrients are increasingly required to support the gonads, mucous membranes and subsequent egg formation. The energy-rich peanut base provides quick energy and high-quality amino acids, while vitamins and chelated trace elements ensure hormonal regulation, shell quality and fertilisation rates.

At the same time, the immune system must be stabilised, as brooding, nest contact and hormonal changes increase the pressure of infection. Pro- and prebiotics, MCT fatty acids, beta-glucans and colostrum strengthen the intestines as the headquarters of the immune defence, improve mucous membrane protection and reduce pathogenic germs. This creates a resistant, microbiologically stable foundation that supports the entire breeding phase.

An additional advantage: a well cared for parent pigeon forms more immunoglobulins in the crop milk, a decisive starting advantage for young pigeons in terms of vitality, growth and disease resistance.

Why an early start is biologically superior

1. probiotics need colonisation

The tribes Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium take days to weeks to establish themselves in the intestine and develop:

• Competitive displacement of pathogenic germs
• pH stabilisation
• Protection of the mucous membranes

Scientific evaluation clearly shows that the optimum effect of probiotic bacteria is only achieved with continuous daily intake.

2. beta-glucans activate the immune system via repetitive stimuli and act according to the "training effect"

The receptors of macrophages need to be "trained". Beta-glucans activate macrophages via Dectin receptors. The immunological "awakening" requires Regular stimuli and no impact gift.

A late start at travelling time means that the immune system is not yet "awake".

3. MCT fatty acids build up a selective antimicrobial pressure

The MCT effect is created by

• Membrane-dissolving activity against pathogenic germs
• Protection of the desired microbial flora and lactobacilli
• act along the entire intestine

This selective germ control benefits from Continuous small dosing and daily administration creates a Antimicrobial basic environmentwhich prevents infections.

4. toxin binders require time and create a "clean gut" over weeks

Bentonite, zeolite and biochar:

• bind mycotoxins
• reduce endotoxins
• relieve the liver and digestive tract

The positive effect is created over weeks by Constant binding capacityThis is also an argument in favour of early feeding and not just for a few days.

Why an early start brings real benefits

If you introduce BergerPearls No.1 during the quiet winter phase, you are utilising a biologically ideal time window. The pigeons are relaxed, receptive and can learn new feed components without stress. This ensures a safe, even intake and lays the foundation for stable levels of active ingredients in the gut.

Early, regular feeding strengthens the microbiome and activates the immune system even before training stimuli, travelling pressure or breeding stress set in. Probiotics, MCT fatty acids and beta-glucans have a cumulative effect, which is precisely why they are most effective when they are already established before the stress begins.

A well-prepared gut ensures that the pigeons remain calmer, regenerate better and are more resistant during training and races.

In short:

Starting early gives you a head start.
Starting late means catching up on form.