This week, we are shifting our focus to hormones in mares.

Many horse owners are eager to learn how to manage hormonal mares and better understand their behavior. While the most intense symptoms of hormone changes tend to surface in spring, chronic issues can persist year-round, making them challenging to handle, as hormonal imbalances can significantly alter their brain chemistry, behavior, and well-being.

As most women know, hormones are powerful and can cause severe symptoms. Unfortunately, horses cannot easily communicate what they are experiencing. So, today, I share tips on approaching hormonal issues with mares naturally and holistically.

Introduction to Hormonal Imbalances in Horses

Hormonal imbalances in horses, particularly mares and geldings, have become normalized in the industry. That has led to a lack of awareness about healthy hormone levels. The primary causes of hormone imbalances are stress, nutrient deficiencies, and toxicity, which disrupt homeostasis in the body.

Seasonal Hormonal Changes

In spring, increased daylight triggers hormonal changes in mares. Their eyes absorb more light, activating the endocrine system, including the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. The hypothalamus, known as the master gland, orchestrates these changes by stimulating various hormones in response to environmental factors such as temperature, fluid balance, hunger, and stress.

Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland Interaction

The hypothalamus links the nervous and endocrine systems, receiving environmental information and eliciting a response by stimulating the pituitary gland with neural hormones. This complex interaction prepares mares for reproduction, producing follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones for estrogen and progesterone production in the ovaries.

Estrus Cycle and Hormonal Symptoms

A healthy mare experiences a 21-day estrus cycle, with ovulation around day 16 and heat lasting 4-6 days. However, many mares suffer from hormonal imbalances, leading to chronic heat cycles and symptoms such as uterine pain, colic, sweating, frequent urination, back pain, and general stiffness. These symptoms often go unrecognized as hormonal issues.

Behavioral and Emotional Impact

Hormonal imbalances also affect the behavior of mares, causing agitation, anger, depression, fatigue, and anxiety. That can impact their ability to cooperate with humans, making them unsafe and hard to handle. Recognizing and addressing the imbalances through nutrition and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve their behavior and overall well-being.

Conventional and Holistic Approaches

While hormone replacement therapies are commonplace, they come with many side effects, including weight gain, uterine infections, and risks to human handlers. Medications like synthetic progesterone and medroxyprogesterone suppress estrus, but their risks often outweigh the benefits. A holistic approach focusing on diet, nutrition, and natural remedies is better for long-lasting results.

The Role of Stress and Nutrition

Stress significantly impacts hormonal balance, as elevated cortisol and insulin levels disrupt the physical equilibrium. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin B6 and magnesium, contribute to hormonal issues. Essential fatty acids, calcium, and Vitamin B12 will also support hormone regulation and overall health.

Protein and Alfalfa

Excessive protein intake can lead to behavioral and anxiety problems in horses. While protein is essential, horses do not require as much as some owners might think. Be cautious with alfalfa, a high-protein forage, and ensure it is relevant and appropriate for your horse.

Commercial Feeds and Hormone Impact

Commercial feeds can contain various ingredients that affect hormone levels in horses. Some ingredients, like soy, have phytoestrogens and preservatives that interfere with endocrine pathways. Adjusting or removing commercial feeds from their diet can significantly improve their behavior, health, and hormone balance.

Managing Stress Levels

Chronic stress in horses can imbalance hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, adrenaline, and cortisol. That is why owners should minimize their stress levels and become aware of any stress-related signals. Movement is also essential for proper hormone metabolism and detoxification.

Importance of Movement

Movement is vital for the equine metabolism, circulation, and lymphatic system. Confinement and lack of social interaction can lead to health issues that no amount of nutrition or supplements can fix. Ensuring horses have regular exercise and playtime with other horses is crucial for their overall health.

Liver and Hindgut Health

Liver and microbiome health are the keys to proper hormone metabolism. Horses with liver toxicity or an imbalanced microbiome cannot metabolize hormones effectively. So, owners must consider the overall health profile of their horses, including signs of chronic infections or skin conditions, as part of managing hormone regulation.

Horse-Human Relationship

Horses can mirror the hormonal imbalances and stress levels of their owners. If an owner has high stress or hormonal issues, it can affect the health of their horses. When owners manage their health and stress levels, it can positively impact the health of their horses.

Practical Steps for Managing Hormonal Mares

To manage hormonal mares, consider these five steps:

1. Dietary Adjustments: Monitor sugar andalfalfa intake, as excess alfalfa can overstimulate the pituitary gland and disrupt the microbiome, contributing to hormonal issues.
2. Stress Reduction: Implement strategies to minimize stress, especially in competitive horses.
3. Nutritional Support: Ensure adequate intake of key nutrients like vitamin B6, magnesium, essential fatty acids, calcium, and B12.
4. Liver Health: Support liver function through a balanced diet and supplements to improve hormone metabolism.
5. Holistic Management: Adopt a holistic approach to address underlying causes of hormonal imbalances, focusing on diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies.

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We are currently experiencing an epidemic of stress-related conditions in horses, affecting virtually every aspect of their health. So, this week, we are focusing on ways to prevent or reduce stress in horses.

When a horse becomes stressed, various physiological changes occur, exacerbating any health issues or challenges that may already exist.

Join me as I explore why horses tend to get stressed, examining the biochemical processes that unfold when they do and how their organs respond, highlighting how these factors can ultimately lead to either the success or failure of their health.

Stressors in horses can be physical or emotional. Physical stressors include chronic illness, injuries, surgeries, pain, inflammation, high physical demands, and chronic hunger. Emotional stressors stem from the social nature of the horse. They may include weaning, grief, anger, frustration, loneliness due to confinement, and chronic hunger.

Chronic illnesses place constant stress on the equine body as it struggles to restore balance. Injuries, such as pulled ligaments, broken bones, or muscle damage, require the body to activate resources to reduce inflammation and begin healing, which is a significant stressor.

Surgeries are invasive and traumatic for the tissues of horses. Pain and inflammation, whether from injuries, food allergies, or high-sugar diets, create a constant state of low-grade stress, hindering tissue repair and allowing degenerative processes to take place.

High-performance physical demands can be stressful, so the necessary tools and resources are essential to help the horse recover. Horses are natural grazers, so chronic hunger can lead to chronic stress, affecting their physical and emotional well-being.

Horses are highly social beings with a strong emotional IQ. Weaning is a significant emotional stressor and is often the first traumatic event for a horse. Some horses adapt well, while others carry the trauma long into adulthood.

Grief from losing herd mates, whether due to death or separation, can affect horses. They may exhibit signs of depression and a loss of zest for life, potentially leading to physical health issues like ulcers or laminitis.

Poor human-horse relationships, where the horse feels misunderstood or unheard, can lead to frustration and anger. Loneliness, often due to confinement and lack of social interaction, is another emotional stressor that could affect their health.

As prey animals, horses have a pronounced and severe stress response hardwired for survival. This response, necessary for escaping predators, includes hypervigilance and neuroses. Genetic factors can influence their stress response, highlighting the importance of breeding calmer, less stressed horses to ensure better future generations.

The natural stress response in horses is flight. However, in unnatural environments where fleeing is impossible, this energy has no outlet, leading to frustration, anger, and irritability. Chronic stress without release can result in shutdown and withdrawal, further compounding any existing health issues.

Stress significantly impacts the digestive system, reducing blood flow to vital organs, slowing gut motility, inhibiting nutrient absorption, and reducing digestive secretions. That can lead to malnutrition and colic. Chronic stress also increases acidity in the stomach, contributing to ulcer formation, especially in performance horses.

Stress triggers the release of hormones like glucagon and ACTH, which increase blood sugar and cortisol levels. Long-term cortisol production can lead to tissue breakdown, immune system suppression, and metabolic issues such as insulin resistance and PSSM.

Prolonged stress affects the immune system by delaying healing and contributing to leaky gut syndrome. Chronic stress can lead to adrenal burnout, affecting cortisol production and exacerbating health issues.

Cortisol is produced naturally as an anti-inflammatory response in horses, playing a crucial role in managing inflammation from chronic conditions like laminitis and the overall immune response. However, persistent cortisol production, particularly in autoimmune conditions such as uveitis, can lead to oxidative stress and harm tissue integrity.

Chronic stress significantly impacts the immune system of horses. Since 70% of the immune system is in the gut, stress can disrupt digestion and redirect resources away from immunity. Suppressing the immune system increases susceptibility to infections and other health issues.

The thymus gland, responsible for producing white blood cells and other immune cells, can shrink by up to 50% under stress. That leads to a drastic drop in immune defense, making horses more vulnerable to infections. Chronic stress, often seen in horses rescued from neglectful situations, severely compromises their immunity.

Horses under chronic stress experience delayed healing and increased vulnerability to infections. You can support their recovery by providing nutritional support for the adrenal glands to create a healthy immune response. That includes addressing stressors, improving the environment, and ensuring they have a proper outlet for stress.

Healing is delayed in horses under chronic stress, especially when dealing with conditions like laminitis or metabolic syndrome. That is why owners must address their mental and emotional states and provide outlets for stress relief to promote their healing.

Stress and lifestyle factors can lead to sleep deprivation and narcolepsy in horses. Those conditions can cause horses to fall asleep while standing, posing a danger and making it essential to address lifestyle factors that could contribute to their stress and sleep issues.

Supplements alone cannot resolve stress-related issues in horses. It is crucial to make lifestyle changes, like providing more playtime, adjusting feeding schedules, and ensuring social interactions. Even by making small changes, you can significantly reduce stress levels and improve a horse's overall health.

Allowing horses to rest is essential for their recovery and health. Adequate sleep supports the immune system, tissue repair, and digestive health. Owners should avoid disturbing resting horses, especially those recovering from traumatic or neglectful environments.

Understanding and addressing physical and emotional stressors in horses is crucial for their health and longevity. By recognizing the signs of stress and implementing stress management strategies, owners can promote better health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for their horses.

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Stress is a significant concern for horses, as it influences countless aspects of their health and well-being. So, this week, I invited Glenn Stewart to join me to dive into the emotional health of horses. 

Glenn works with wild horses. I have been following his travels across the globe for several years, doing clinics and working with horses and humans. He has been an invaluable resource in my quest to understand more about equine behavior and health within a natural environment. 

Glenn is one of the premier horsemen in the world with four decades of experience, having worked with thousands of horses and 38 different breeds. He runs annual High & Wild camps at his ranch in Fort St. John, British Columbia, where he leads groups into the mountains to work with horses that have had very few interactions with humans. 

Glenn has won many competitions, including the Cold Starting competition at the Horse Expo in Red Deer, Alberta. He became the 2021 champion at Road to the Horse in Alberta, Canada, and clinched the world championship title at the 2022 Road to the Horse in Lexington, Kentucky. 

Join us as Glenn draws from his expertise and vast experience to explore the intricate relationship between stress and equine health.

Even though stress in horses is not inherently harmful, excessive stress may harm them. Discomfort is necessary for growth in both humans and horses. Glenn notes that horses, being prey animals, find many things stressful, and the goal should be to build their confidence rather than shield them from all stress.

It is essential to find balance when working with horses. Protecting horses from all discomfort is as damaging as exposing them to constant stress. The key is to expose them to stress in a controlled, step-by-step manner to help them become calmer and more confident.

Some may try to avoid putting their horses in stressful situations, believing it will keep them calm. Glenn counters this by explaining that long-term stress from constantly being protected can make horses more fearful. He believes that with proper training, any horse can build confidence and become calmer, regardless of their initial temperament.

Glenn explains the importance of preventing horses from entering self-preservation mode, which occurs when they feel overly pressured and see no way out. Proper training involves showing horses that there is an answer to the pressure they face, encouraging them to think and remain calm.

Glenn stresses the importance of mental and emotional development over physical fitness in horse training. He believes in building mental and emotional resilience in horses to prevent them from reacting adversely under stress.

Glenn addresses the misconception that quick training is harmful. He argues that fast training can be beneficial and less stressful for the horse if done correctly. Prolonged confusion and slow training can lead to more stress and anxiety for the horse.

Trust gets built through consistent, clear communication and handling. Horses need to know what humans expect of them and see their human owner as a reliable leader. Glenn emphasizes the importance of developing yourself before trying to train your horse.

Glenn often waits to saddle or ride the horse in competitions, focusing instead on building trust. He explains that the goal is to get enough positive responses from the horse before proceeding to ensure the horse is mentally and emotionally prepared.

Glenn reiterates the importance of mental and emotional development over physical fitness in horse training. He feels it is essential to develop the resilience of horses, as it prevents them from reacting adversely under stress.

Humans are often a significant source of stress for horses. Glenn believes it is the responsibility of horse owners to work on their skills to reduce the stress they cause their horses. Building a relationship based on trust and respect is essential for horses.

Participants in horsemanship clinics often receive unexpected benefits. Initially, the attendees arrive with specific goals for their horses, like loading or saddling. However, by engaging in the process, they gain a wide range of skills and improvements for themselves and their horses.

Emphasizing the importance of building the mental and emotional fitness of both the horse and the owner, Glenn adds that one cannot expect more from their horse than they expect from themselves. Mutual development is the key to successful horsemanship.

Elisha shares a story about how her horse initially ran away from her, but over time, through improved communication and understanding, her horse now comes running to her. Glenn highlights that changing how we communicate with horses can lead to significant positive changes.

Perspective and attitude play crucial roles in horsemanship. Glenn emphasizes that although the techniques are important, the right mindset and approach are equally essential for aligning with the horse to achieve better results.

Human emotions directly influence how horses behave. Horses are sensitive to human feelings, timing, and even smells. Glenn stresses the importance of maintaining mental and emotional fitness to avoid negatively impacting the horse.

Glenn discusses different handling approaches, explaining how some methods, like petting or feeding, might not work for training. He points out that meaningful interaction and proper training are more beneficial than being kind without structure.

Glenn asserts that horse owners must educate themselves and develop the necessary skills to address the anxieties and stressors of their horses. That involves continuous learning and improvement to ensure the well-being of their horses.

Glenn encourages horse owners to keep improving their communication skills with horses, emphasizing the endless potential for growth and development in horsemanship. He invites people to explore all the available learning opportunities to better connect with and train their horses.

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This week, we return to the basics of equine care to focus on the three Fs of fundamental requirements for a healthy horse.

The three Fs stand for forage, friendship, and freedom. This concept has been around for quite some time as it effectively encapsulates all the principal necessities for any horse to thrive. 

Join me as we dive into the importance of always focusing on these core pillars of horse health first to ensure all your horse's mental, physical, and emotional needs get met.

Natural means something nature created, so it is not there due to human intervention. Applying a natural lifestyle to horses in a domestic setting is challenging because humans control almost every aspect of a horse's environment, including food, water, supplements, living quarters, social interactions, and freedom. That means what we often consider normal horse-keeping is not necessarily natural or best for the horse.

Horses communicate their needs and discomforts through their behavior. Unruly, aggressive, or dangerous behavior often shows that a horse is unhappy with its environment, lifestyle, or treatment. Knowing about that and responding appropriately to the signs will help you have a better relationship with your horse and improve its well-being.

The digestive systems of horses are supposed to have food constantly. In the wild, horses graze continuously, preventing digestive issues like ulcers and colic. Domestic horses need regular access to forage to mimic that natural state. Restricting food, especially for insulin-resistant and metabolic horses, can lead to stress and health problems. Slow feeders can help manage the amount and pace of their eating, reducing their stress and promoting health.

Horses are social animals, so they need companionship. Living in herds provides safety and fulfills their social needs. Horses deprived of social interactions can suffer from loneliness, depression, and stress. So, it is essential to allow horses to bond with other horses and ensure they have social opportunities, even if it means getting creative with their living arrangements.

Horses need space to move naturally, which often gets restricted in domestic settings. Providing environments like track systems to encourage movement can help mimic their natural behavior. Movement is crucial for a horse's physical health, aiding their digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being.

Adjusting your horse management to provide more natural conditions, even in limited spaces, can significantly impact the health of your horse and its happiness. That includes ensuring they have forage available, providing opportunities for social interactions, and allowing them the freedom to move. 

A case of an insulin-resistant horse with behavioral issues highlights the importance of the three Fs. Despite all efforts to manage his diet and health, his aggression and stress did not improve until he was allowed more freedom and given a more natural living environment. This case underscores the importance of addressing the horse's emotional and mental needs alongside its physical health.

Horses thrive when their natural behaviors and needs are respected. That includes having constant access to forage, social interactions, and the freedom to move. Domestic settings often restrict these natural behaviors, but making some adjustments to provide more natural conditions will usually lead to healthier and happier horses.

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Even though homeopathy is the second-largest medicine system in the world, many people have never even heard of it.So, this week, I am focusing on using homeopathy to finish a case. 

My inspiration for this topic came from an insightful documentary I recently watched called Introducing Homeopathy, covering the history and scientific foundations of homeopathy. It is a must-watch for anyone curious about this powerful yet often overlooked system of medicine. 

Join me as we explore the wonders of homeopathy, revealing its effectiveness for managing toxicity in horses and addressing their chronic health issues.

Introducing Homeopathy provides a comprehensive examination of the history of homeopathy and its remarkable efficacy in addressing a diverse range of health conditions. Through in-depth discussions and insights from experts worldwide, including esteemed scientists and Nobel laureates, the documentary sheds light on the scientific foundation of homeopathy. It emphasizes the unique philosophy underlying the homeopathic approach to healing, showcasing numerous success stories highlighting its effectiveness in improving health and well-being.

We have recently covered cases highlighting the use of homeopathy for various aspects of equine health while also focusing on the importance of nutrition, stress management, and toxin removal for laying the groundwork for homeopathic remedies to achieve optimal results. That strategic approach recognizes the value of homeopathy as an energy-based medicine that relies on a clear and precise understanding of symptoms for accurately selecting the best remedy and maximizing its therapeutic potential.

In Introducing Homeopathy, the efficacy of homeopathy is illustrated vividly through various case studies that showcase its ability to complement and enhance efforts to strengthen immunity and detoxify the body. With conditions like chronic sinusitis or parasite infections, homeopathy significantly improves the outcomes. That highlights the importance of addressing fundamental health factors before integrating homeopathy into a treatment plan.

While homeopathy offers substantial benefits, challenges may arise, particularly in cases like laminitis with mechanical foot issues. In those situations, holistic interventions alongside homeopathy are essential for comprehensive care. It is crucial to approach homeopathy judiciously, particularly regarding complex and chronic health conditions, while also recognizing its potential to provide relief in acute scenarios like colic.

In conclusion, I encourage you, the listener, to delve deeper into the principles and applications of homeopathy by watching the documentary Introducing Homeopathy. By gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the role of homeopathy within a holistic treatment framework, you can optimize your health outcomes and achieve lasting wellness. 

Through continuous exploration and education, you will learn about the benefits of homeopathy for us individuals and the broader healthcare community.

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Over the past few weeks, I have covered equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and thyroid function. One of the minerals essential for many of those physical processes is selenium.

So, today, I take a closer look at selenium, providing an in-depth analysis of this essential nutrient. 

By understanding the role of selenium, recognizing signs of deficiency, and knowing when to supplement it, we can make more informed decisions for the health of our horses. Join us to learn all you need to know about selenium and the diet and lifestyle risk factors that could result in a selenium deficiency.

Selenium is an antioxidant crucial for holistic equine health. Antioxidants like selenium scavenge free radicals, aiding detoxification and supporting the immune system. They are particularly beneficial for horses facing toxicity or immune challenges.

While I do not recommend ongoing daily supplementation for all nutrients, selenium is an exception due to common deficiencies, especially for horses prone to equine metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. It is best to start with intensive supplementation before transitioning to a maintenance regimen, typically three to four times weekly, to ensure optimal long-term selenium levels.

Selenium serves a range of functions beyond supporting the immune system, supporting healthy skin, hair, hooves, muscle function, and thyroid health. It is also crucial for metabolic balance and is particularly essential for working horses due to their higher demand.

Many horses show deficiency symptoms due to inadequate selenium levels in their diet and environment. Signs of selenium deficiency include weakened hooves, skin issues, hair loss, fatigue, liver toxicity, poor immunity, muscle issues, and thyroid dysfunction. 

While selenium toxicity has historically been a concern, deficiencies are far more common. Organic selenium forms like selenomethionine are safe and highly bioavailable, mitigating toxicity risks associated with inorganic forms like sodium selenite.

For horses deficient in selenium, a loading dose of 2000 micrograms per day for a few weeks, followed by a maintenance dose of 1000 micrograms, works well. Dosages must be tailored to the requirements of each horse and monitored for optimal results.

Given how common selenium deficiencies are and the critical importance of selenium for equine health, maintaining a regular supplementation routine that gets adjusted to suit the individual needs of each horse is prudent for their overall well-being.

Understanding the significance of selenium, recognizing signs of deficiency, choosing the appropriate form for supplementation, and implementing a tailored regimen are essential steps in optimizing equine health and performance. Regular monitoring and adjustments will ensure sustained benefits and support for equine health and vitality.

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Today, we are diving into a case study of a horse called Monty.

His journey is an inspiring story of dedication and progress. His owner, Lisa, and I started addressing his issues in November 2023, and since then, Monty has transformed remarkably.

This case reflects many of the concepts we have discussed recently. So, listeners who face similar challenges with their horses will easily relate to it.

Monty's Background

Monty is a 16-year-old Rocky Mountain gelding. He lives with his owner, Lisa, in Minnesota. Lisa has over a decade of experience with horses, having owned them for ten years. She and Monty have extensively engaged in trail riding, exploring areas like Wyoming, North and South Dakota, and Kentucky, also participating in competitive trail challenges.

The beginning of Monty's Health Journey 

In March 2021, Monty developed laminitis symptoms, indicating a potential health issue. A blood test in May 2021 revealed high insulin levels (500), slightly elevated glucose (127), and a borderline low thyroid hormone level (1.3).

Initial Treatment and Concerns

Monty received medication to manage his insulin and thyroid levels. However, despite improved numbers, his overall health deteriorated over time. He became lethargic, had a dull coat, and showed signs of muscle wasting.

Addressing Anaemia and Nutrition

After identifying anemia and low thyroid function as critical issues affecting his well-being, Lisa and I tailored a nutrition plan, including B12, folic acid, iron, selenium, and gut-supportive supplements, and implemented it to address his problems.

Adjusting Medication and Nutrition

Over time, we shifted our focus toward a clean and balanced diet, focusing on nutrient-rich foods and supplements. We reduced his medication and adjusted his nutrition to help him gain weight, increase his energy levels, and improve his overall health. 

Exercise and Quality of Life

We also incorporated exercise into his routine, tailored to his energy levels, to improve his circulation, insulin sensitivity, and overall well-being. Lisa began to notice positive changes in his energy and social behavior, indicating his quality of life had improved.

Progress and Monitoring

With regular check-ins and bloodwork monitoring, Monty showed significant improvements in his insulin, glucose, and thyroid levels, indicating we had successfully managed his health issues without relying on medications. Adjusting his nutrition and lifestyle also contributed to his overall recovery and well-being.

Key Takeaways

Monty's case study highlights the importance of a holistic approach to equine health, focusing on tailored nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. It disproves the common belief that horses with metabolic issues cannot recover without medication and highlights the effectiveness of proper nutrition and care for achieving optimal health outcomes.

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Today, we are diving into the best method for preventing and promoting recovery from Equine Metabolic Syndrome. 

While equine health issues often get labeled for clarity, it is essential to understand that with EMS, PPID, and PSSM, the underlying imbalances are remarkably similar and interconnected, particularly regarding metabolism. A holistic approach will address those issues while also restoring overall balance within all the biochemical processes of thehorse. 

Stay tuned to learn about the most significant imbalances to consider for prevention and recovery from EMS, their causes, and ways to prevent them.

Imbalances and Key Considerations

When addressing Equine Metabolic Syndrome, horse owners must focus on regulating blood sugar, insulin, and cortisol due to their significant impact on metabolic processes and overall health. High insulin levels can cause tissue damage, especially in the feet, while elevated cortisol contributes to various health issues, including immune-related conditions and behavioral changes. Adopting a multifaceted approach that considers these imbalances holistically is crucial for effective prevention and recovery.

Causes of Imbalances

The primary causes of imbalances in horses with EMS, PPID, or PSSM are sugar and stress. Chronic elevation of blood sugar and stress hormones like cortisol can lead to metabolic dysregulation and exacerbate existing conditions. Managing these factors through diet, lifestyle adjustments, and stress reduction techniques is essential for preventing and treating metabolic issues.

Prevention and Lifestyle Strategies

Creating a healthy environment for horses involves four key aspects:

• Lifestyle
• Diet
• Nutritional therapy
• Herbal support

Lifestyle modifications, managing stress levels, and ensuring adequate exercise and social interactions are crucial for maintaining horses' overall health. Developing a personalized diet that addresses nutrient deficiencies, regulates blood sugar, and supports metabolic function is essential, and incorporating nutritional therapy and herbal supplements can also enhance their metabolic balance and overall well-being.

Holistic Approach for Optimal Health

By combining lifestyle adjustments, dietary modifications, nutritional therapy, and herbal support, horse owners can significantly improve the health of their horses. A holistic approach addresses the root causes of imbalances, promotes metabolic function, and supports overall vitality. With proper management and attention to those key factors, horses can experience substantial improvements in their quality of life and metabolic health.

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This week, we are continuing with our discussion on Equine Metabolic Syndrome.

As spring approaches in many parts of the world, horse owners are on high alert, looking for signs like weight gain, crested necks, foot inflammation, or shedding due to PPID. 

Grass and sugar levels play a pivotal role in metabolic conditions like insulin resistance, PPID (Cushing's syndrome), and PSSM, all of which require the same approach for holistic management. That involves supporting horses by focusing on proper detoxification, efficient metabolism, and their ability to convert sugars efficiently in the muscles, liver, and tissue through lifestyle adjustments where necessary and ensuring correct nutrition for a successful recovery.

Stay tuned to learn how to avoid three of the most common mistakes horse owners make, which could impede their horses’ recovery from Equine Metabolic Syndrome.

The Food Restriction Misconception 

One common misconception is that restricting food intake is an effective way to manage weight gain and reduce the sugar levels of horses. This approach stems from the belief that reducing calories will lead to weight loss. However, excessive food restriction can detrimentally affect a horse's overall health. In other words, prolonged periods without food can cause stress, increase the risk of ulcers, and lead to digestive issues like colic. Moreover, a horse deprived of food for extended periods may experience heightened levels of anxiety and frustration, impacting their well-being and behavior. While it is essential to monitor calorie intake, extreme food restriction is not a sustainable or healthy solution for managing equine metabolic syndrome.

Commercial Grain Feeding 

Another mistake horse owners often tend to make is relying heavily on commercial grains marketed for metabolic horses. While those feeds may claim to be beneficial for insulin resistance and other metabolic conditions, they often contain many ingredients that can contribute to the toxic load of the horse. Commercial grains may be high in sugars, additives, and fillers, leading to inflammation, digestive disturbances, and immune system imbalances. These feeds may not account for individual sensitivities and the nutritional needs of all horses, potentially exacerbating metabolic issues rather than alleviating them. A more effective approach is to focus on whole foods and natural supplements tailored to the horse's specific needs, promoting better digestion, metabolism, and overall health.

Relying Solely on Balanced Minerals 

Balancing minerals to match the forage is essential for equine nutrition, especially for horses with metabolic conditions. However, relying solely on balanced minerals to meet all the horse's nutritional requirements can be a mistake. While balanced minerals are crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions and supporting metabolic health, they may not address specific nutrient deficiencies or imbalances that could be contributing to metabolic issues. Additionally, some commercial mineral mixes may contain excessive or unnecessary ingredients that do not benefit the horse's overall well-being. Customizing the horse's diet with targeted nutrients and supplements based on individual needs and health goals is essential for achieving optimal metabolic function and overall health.

The Importance of Monitoring Stress Levels 

In addition to dietary considerations, horse owners must monitor and manage their horse's stress levels, as stress can significantly impact their metabolic health. High stress levels could cause increased cortisol production, linked to insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders. Other factors, like inadequate exercise, social isolation, and environmental changes, could also contribute to stress in horses. Implementing strategies for stress reduction, like regular exercise, proper socialization, consistent routines, and a comfortable living environment, can help mitigate the negative impact of stress on metabolic health. 

By addressing dietary and stress-related factors, horse owners can effectively support their horse's overall well-being and metabolic function.

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This week, we are diving into the best approach for your horse regarding Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).

As April and May approach, many horse owners start thinking about insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome, PPID, and PSSM due to the rise in pasture sugars. Common strategies include reducing sugar intake, moving horses to dry lots, checking hay quality, and increasing exercise, but some horses remain sensitive despite those changes. Even after a long time remaining off the grass, they still react strongly, which indicates a need for a more comprehensive approach. 

Stay tuned to learn how a holistic approach can help you find solutions beyond conventional recommendations and band-aid quick-fixes.

The holistic approach recognizes that health issues like insulin resistance and laminitis are complex and require a broader understanding than surface-level solutions. It involves looking at the horse’s overall well-being, including diet, exercise, stress levels, and environment, to address underlying imbalances. 

The band-aid approach generally involves removing sugar from the horse's diet, supplements that have been labeled beneficial for metabolic issues, and focusing on temporary symptom management.

Despite implementing common strategies like restricting sugar intake, providing ample exercise, and using supplements, some horses continue to struggle with metabolic issues. That could be due to the differences in how horses metabolize food, undetected nutrient deficiencies, ongoing stressors, or other underlying health conditions contributing to metabolic dysfunction.

Many factors could influence a horse's susceptibility to metabolic issues. Breed predisposition plays a role, with some breeds being more prone to metabolic imbalances than others. Health history, including past illnesses or injuries, can impact a horse's metabolic health, and genetic factors and past traumas may also contribute to ongoing health challenges. Stress levels, diet composition, lifestyle factors, nutritional status, and food intolerances are all interconnected aspects that can affect a horse's metabolic function and overall well-being.

To effectively address metabolic issues, it is essential to identify and target the underlying causes directly. That involves understanding how the condition developed- either a gradual progression or sudden onset due to specific stressors. Stress management also plays a significant role, as chronic stress can disrupt metabolic processes and contribute to health issues. Nutrient deficiencies, especially in essential minerals like selenium, can hinder metabolic function and must be addressed through targeted supplementation or dietary adjustments. To support the metabolic health of a horse, you must avoid unnecessary toxicity in the diet and ingredients that could cause inflammation or allergic reactions.

Food plays a crucial role in supporting metabolic health. A clean and balanced diet, tailored to the needs of the horse, is essential to provide essential nutrients and support optimal metabolic function. That includes ensuring adequate fiber intake, managing sugar and carbohydrate levels appropriately, and addressing any specific food intolerances or sensitivities that could contribute to metabolic issues. 

By focusing on nutrition as a primary tool for health, horse owners can lay a solid foundation for metabolic wellness and the overall well-being of their horses.

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.

Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome Naturally

Sign up for the FREE masterclass today!

Masterclass