A premix is disclosed. The premix includes a nitrate compound and salts thereof in the amount of greater than about 50% by weight of the premix. The premix also includes vitamins and trace minerals. The premix is formulated for use in at least one of a gestation or lactation phase of an animal and in an amount of less than about five percent by weight (5.0 wt %) inclusion per metric ton of the premix. A supplement for an animal feed for feeding during at least one of an animals gestation phase and/or lactation phase is also disclosed. A method for feeding an animal is also disclosed.