Organic minerals and why they should be part of the racehorses diet

Article by Catherine Rudenko

What are organic minerals and why should these be part of racehorse diets? 

Chelated minerals, commonly known as ‘organic minerals’ have been around since the 1980s and were quickly adopted into feeds for production animals as benefits relating to health, production and physical gains became apparent through a growing body of research and proven results on farms. Early in the 1990s organic minerals appeared in horse feeds with most brands adopting a partial replacement concept, using a low inclusion of organic minerals alongside inorganic minerals. 

By early 2000 researchers began querying if diets could be reliant fully on organic minerals, working on the basis that ‘nature identical’ minerals would require lower feeding rates and could still deliver the same level of performance whilst also benefitting the environment. 

Fast forward to today and some feed companies, including equine, are now operating with organic minerals only.  Is this the future of mineral nutrition for racehorses? 

What is an organic mineral and where do minerals come from?

Most mineral additives come from inorganic compounds such as oxides, sulphates, carbonates and phosphates. Interactions between inorganic minerals combined with lower levels of digestibility means inclusion levels are often high in feeds to ensure dietary needs are met. Variability in forage is also a factor in why mineral levels often run well above recommended intakes as well as catering for the ‘more is better’ mindset in the marketplace. 

Over-formulating and over feeding of mineralised feeds or supplements does not get better results. In fact, quite the opposite. There is a fine balance between minerals, which actively compete with each other for absorption in the body. Then there is the question of energy efficiency as processing excessive and unnecessary nutrients requires energy within the body. 

Organic minerals offer an interesting alternative, having a greater bioavailability, not competing for the same absorption sites, reducing effects of interactions, and wastage of nutrients excreted into droppings. The excretion of minerals was a key driver behind the increased use of organics in the agri sector as the impact of farming on the environment continues to be closely scrutinised. The benefits of using organic minerals aren’t just about animal health and performance, they are also about environmental responsibility. 

What is an organic mineral?

Organic minerals are trace elements, also known as micro minerals, that are complexed or otherwise associated with an organic molecule. Most commonly referred to as chelated minerals. The term organic mineral is used quite broadly, and there are several different types of organic minerals used in animal feeds. Copper, zinc, manganese and iron are available in chelated form, whilst selenium is available in organic yeast.

How are they made?

Creating an organic mineral is a process of reacting the inorganic mineral salt with a suitable non-metal entity known as a ligand. Ligands are mostly single amino-acids or small peptides (chains of amino acids). Once bonded the mineral becomes part of a biologically stable, and more available structure. 

The key word is stability as this influences how that mineral behaves when fed, as the digestive system presents several challenges, including varying levels of pH. As a general rule, minerals organically bound with peptides (amino acid chains), that have a greater potential to form bonds, create more stable organic minerals than those based on a single amino acid. 

Chelation of minerals is the process used for zinc, copper, iron and manganese. Selenium is a little different, belonging to a different group of elements, that are difficult to chelate in the same manner. For that reason, organic selenium is also derived from selenised yeast, a form commonly used in equine feeds and for which equine specific research is available.  

How do chelates work?

Mineral stability and resilience to some of the challenges of the digestive tract is one part of the success story behind chelated organic minerals. Binding with amino acids also means that organic minerals utilise different pathways for absorption compared to inorganic minerals. This improves absorption and reduces competition with other minerals. 

As the ‘what goes in’ with organic minerals is more stable and is easily absorbed there is less needed to meet requirements and still provide benefits to health and performance. On a feed tag or supplement label the number might look lower but the efficacy is greater.

When reviewing your feed choices and looking at all the numbers it is worth asking the question as to what form of mineral is being used, not just the milligrams per kilogram value in the brochure. The mineral source is not always declared on a website or datasheet but by law is noted on the feed label in the additive section, so it is worth walking out to the feed room and taking a look. 

The whole concept of using chelated minerals is to “do more with less”. That is the challenge as Steve Elliott, Global Vice President of Companion Animal at Alltech describes it, and what Alltech have set out to prove is possible.

There are multiple papers on the benefits and efficacy of organic minerals in farm animals. There is however much less equine specific research available. That does not mean organic minerals aren’t good for horses, or don’t work as well, it’s just that horses aren’t generally for eating (which influences spend on research) and they are harder to research. 

What research likes is specific measurables that can easily be linked back to a change in diet, such as live weight gain or milk production. As we don’t fatten horses to eat, or use them for milk, the measurables in horses are harder to work with. Increased performance has too many other variables involved, such as ground conditions, rider etc. As such, we have to work with a smaller pool of data on horses specifically and combine that knowledge with other species with similar digestive systems. 

What is known from other species? 

Inclusion of organic chelates in animal feeds has been a common practice for the last 40 plus years. Typical inclusion levels are 30-40% of the total mineral being provided as organic, with the remainder as inorganic. At that level there is plenty of research to show a positive effect. Inclusion levels much below that rate of inclusion are questionable. Just because a feed or supplement says ‘contains chelated minerals’ does not guarantee they are included at a meaningful or effective level. 

More recently the use of organics only has been the area of interest for research. This is an area Alltech have been heavily involved in, and at present have conducted 253 trials, resulting in 131 peer-reviewed papers.

One of the key questions when considering organics is how much less can be fed versus traditional inorganic minerals in the daily diet. Just how much better are they? From other species the answer is a whole lot less, with research into poultry and swine showing less than half the amount is needed compared to inorganics mineral sources.

What about horses? 

Whilst there are no feed tables specifically for horses referencing organic mineral and inorganic mineral requirements there is enough evidence to give confidence that organic minerals could be, and already are being, used as the sole micro mineral source for horses. 

Horse feeds are typically generously fortified or over-fortified against requirements. For horses in training where feed intake is easily 4 times that of a sport horse the daily intake of copper, zinc, manganese and selenium is often significantly above requirement. For example, horses in training are often consuming copper at 250-300% of requirement. 

With the source of copper being either dominantly, or entirely inorganic, the level given is not necessarily, in fact it is quite unlikely, to be twice or three times as good as feeding the required level. High intakes will result in greater losses into faeces, having little benefit to the horse, and having a negative impact on the environment. 

There are equine feed companies already working with organics only, including Guabi Horse Feeds in Brazil and McCauleys feeds in the USA. Working closer to daily requirements, rather than high dosing, and using organic minerals only, these companies are proving organics are a real option for performance and racing horses just as much as they are for other animals. 

What benefits do organic minerals bring? 

Minerals such as selenium, manganese, iron, copper and zinc are added to feeds and provided in supplements for two reasons, to address the shortfall and variation in mineral content from forages, and to provide levels above basic requirements with the aim of enhancing performance or using nutrition as a therapeutic tool. 

Organic mineral research orientates around improved uptake and efficacy within the body, trying to improve as an aspect of performance related to that mineral. Each mineral has its own role in animal health.

Selenium

Selenium has many roles in the body. Primarily, its role in regulation of the antioxidant system. Following the uptake of selenium by the body, selenium becomes incorporated into numerous selenium-dependent enzymes and proteins, which play many major biological roles. 

Selenium is also a mineral which is regulated, having a maximum permitted level in the daily diet for horses, as whilst being beneficial selenium can also be toxic. When looking at feeding horses in training additional selenium should only be given if feed and forage levels have been assessed and factored into the daily intake. 

Major biological roles of selenium-containing proteins

Research into organic selenium benefits for poultry, swine and cattle includes:

• Improved disease resistance

• Improved antioxidant defence

• Improved retention of selenium in muscle and tissue

• Improved fertility

• Improved growth rates

• Improved selenium content in milk and colostrum

Equine specific research has also shown the same effect on mare’s milk and colostrum. 

Copper, Zinc, Manganese and Iron

Each of these minerals has a role to play in health and performance. When researching efficacy for organic minerals these are often grouped in research as the objective is to determine if replacing this group in part or in full improves the finished feed. 

Copper is one of the most important micro minerals for horses. It has many key roles including, mobilising iron stores, correct functioning of enzymes, maintaining elastic tissues, proper skeletal growth and development, and its role as an antioxidant. 

Zinc has a broad reach in the body, being an enzyme activator or co-factor, as well as being part of over 200 proteins. Zinc is required for normal functioning of insulin and for normal glucose utilisation. It is also important for a functioning immune system, healing of wounds and neurological functions. 

Manganese is involved in bone formation, fatty acid synthesis and amino acid metabolism. Unlike copper and zinc that are naturally low in forages, the level of manganese can be sufficient to meet daily requirements. Variability in levels found within forage is high and supplementation is common practice to cater for this risk.

Iron is part of hemoglobin, the component of red blood cells that allows oxygen to be carried to tissues. Iron deficiency is rare as the horse has a high ability to conserve iron. Approximately 67% of the body’s iron is stored in red blood cells in the form of hemoglobin. 

Red blood cells are formed within the body and remain in circulation for around 150 days. When they die, the iron they contain is recycled and used to build new red blood cells. As such, there is rarely a time where iron is lost from the body. The exceptions to that being horses with high worm burdens, horses with gastric ulcers that cause blood loss, and horses suffering from EIPH (Exercise Induced Pulmonary Haemorrhage). Iron is found in good quantities in feed ingredients and forages, sufficient in most cases to meet requirements. Iron is often added to feeds at low levels to ‘top-up’ naturally occurring iron. 

Research from other species including farm, aquatic and dog show, organic minerals when fed in combinations, have benefits including:

• Improved bone mineral content

• Increased growth rates and weight gains

• Improved milk and colostrum mineral profile

• Increased total antioxidant capacity

• Improved gut morphology

• Improved availability in the presence of antagonists

In horses, a study looking at the influence of oxalates, a substance that reduces calcium uptake, researchers were able to demonstrate that organic minerals were better able to prevent bone resorption compared to inorganic minerals. Diets contained organic copper, zinc, manganese and selenium. 

How does the environment benefit? 

One of the achievements of organic minerals is reduced mineral leaching, an important consideration for farm animals. Alltech have investigated this in horses also, looking at the effect of their organic minerals (Bioplex) on fecal mineral excretion and fecal mineral leaching potential. 

In this research horses were fed one of three diets, a standard diet with no mineral supplementation (CON) or diets containing either inorganic (ING) or organic added minerals (ORG). In both diets with added minerals there were increased mineral levels found in droppings. The diets were supplemented to be higher than requirements (120-380% NRC), which replicates what is commonly found in industry feeds. The organic zinc and copper levels found in the manure were lower than inorganic levels, demonstrating better uptake in the body. 

Both supplemented diets resulted in increased levels of phosphorus leaching from the manure, although the organic mineral diet resulted in numerically lower levels of phosphorus leaching than inorganic. The same pattern was seen for sulphur.  

Manure from all diets was then used to grow tall fescue grass to determine if the diet influenced grass growth. Grass was grown using the manure from the horses fed the three different diets, with water on its own (WAT), and a liquid nutrient solution (NUT).

Grass grown with manure from horses fed diets supplemented with organic minerals (ORG) had 16% greater biomass than grass grown with manure from diets supplemented with inorganic minerals (ING).

So are organic minerals a good choice for horses in training? 

Whilst the majority of research is from other species the science is sound, and the benefits found are equally relevant for horses in training. The majority of feed companies already use chelated minerals in their feeds to provide a proportion of minerals in this format, albeit at varying levels. What is less common, at least in equine, is the total replacement of trace elements with organic formats only, but it is being done and done successfully.

The role of racing surfaces in horse welfare - Current trends and future challenges

Words - Virginia Lisco

Every thunderous stride of a racehorse is a delicate balance between power and vulnerability, and the surface beneath their hooves can make all the difference. Whether it’s turf, dirt, or synthetic tracks, these surfaces aren’t just where races are run, they play a critical role in protecting the health and welfare of the horses. The composition, maintenance, and resilience of these surfaces directly impact the likelihood of injuries, affecting everything from joint strain to catastrophic breakdowns.

In an era where the welfare of horses is more scrutinised than ever, the choice and upkeep of racing surfaces have become critical. Turf requires precise irrigation and aeration to remain safe and consistent; dirt demands meticulous grading and moisture control to prevent compaction; and synthetic tracks, though engineered for uniformity, must be closely monitored for temperature sensitivity and degradation over time.

But the challenges don’t stop there. With climate change rewriting the rules of weather patterns, bringing heavier rains, harsher droughts, and rising temperatures, the very nature of these tracks is being put to the test. Maintaining consistent conditions under these shifting extremes will require innovation and a commitment to sustainability, as the racing industry navigates the intersection of performance, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Traditionally, turf tracks dominate the European horse racing scene, serving as the primary surface in most racecourses due to their ability to provide optimal conditions for racing, particularly during the milder months. 

However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in synthetic surfaces, across Europe, where these tracks are gaining traction for their ability to withstand the challenges posed by winter weather. Major racecourses across the continent utilise synthetic surfaces like Polytrack and Tapeta to ensure safe and consistent racing even under adverse weather conditions. Synthetic tracks are particularly valued for their superior drainage, stability in cases of frost and heavy rain, and different maintenance requirements compared to turf, offering a practical and modern solution to tackle climate challenges while maintaining a continuous racing calendar.

Dirt tracks are now almost entirely absent in Europe, with rare exceptions at a few minor racecourses where the quality of racing is generally low. This is because dirt surfaces neither provide the technical advantages of synthetics nor carry the prestige and tradition associated with turf. The shift toward synthetic surfaces, particularly noticeable in regions with harsher winters, is gradually establishing itself as a key trend for the future of European racing, while the dominance of turf remains unchallenged for the most prestigious events.

The ongoing shift in surface preferences reflects a broader focus on equine welfare, a priority that has spurred significant research and collaboration among leading organisations in the racing industry. The adoption of synthetic tracks, driven in part by studies highlighting their safety benefits, is a direct response to growing concerns about horse injuries and fatalities. A key driver behind this shift is the safety record of synthetic tracks compared to other surfaces. 

Data from studies, such as those conducted by The US Jockey Club's Equine Injury Database (EID), provide critical insights into this trend. According to the EID, synthetic tracks report significantly lower rates of catastrophic injuries, approximately 1.2 incidents per 1,000 starts, compared to dirt tracks, which average 2.1 incidents per 1,000 starts, and slightly lower than turf tracks, which average 1.6 incidents per 1,000 starts. These findings underscore the uniformity and predictability of synthetic surfaces, which minimise variability in footing and reduce the risk of uneven impact during high-speed gallops. Additionally, synthetic tracks are less susceptible to environmental factors, such as extreme wet or dry conditions, which can compromise the performance and safety of both turf and dirt surfaces.

Several prominent organisations have dedicated substantial resources to studying the relationship between track surfaces and equine health. For instance, The US Jockey Club, through the EID, has compiled data since 2008 that consistently demonstrates the superior safety profile of synthetic surfaces, providing a foundation for their increasing adoption, particularly in regions with demanding climates or high year-round racing schedules. 

Similarly, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) conducts comprehensive reviews of racecourse safety, ensuring that maintenance protocols and track designs align with welfare goals. 

In France, France Galop has implemented robust injury monitoring systems, using the insights to refine track conditions and better match surface types to their environmental contexts. These efforts underline the growing recognition that track surfaces play a pivotal role in reducing injury risks, particularly in the high-impact phases of a horse's stride, as detailed in research such as the Equestrian Surfaces Guide. Despite the demonstrated safety advantages of synthetic surfaces, debates remain regarding their long-term impact on equine health. Critics suggest that synthetic tracks may contribute to soft tissue stress injuries due to their firmer composition compared to well-maintained turf. 

Building on the findings of the Equestrian Surfaces Guide, it becomes evident that the biomechanical interaction between the horse and the track surface is a critical determinant of safety and performance. Each phase of the stride: landing, support, and rollover, introduces distinct biomechanical stresses that vary based on the surface’s composition, maintenance, and environmental conditions. 

This research, further supported by Dr Mick Peterson’s, Racing Surfaces White Paper, highlights the importance of not only selecting appropriate surface types but also ensuring consistent maintenance to reduce injury risks.

Peterson’s study provides a detailed analysis of how surface properties, such as firmness, cushioning, and grip, directly influence the forces acting on a horse’s legs during high-speed galloping. The white paper emphasises that well-engineered synthetic tracks excel in delivering predictable and uniform performance, mitigating the variability often associated with dirt and turf surfaces. For example, in the landing phase, when shockwaves and braking forces are transmitted through the leg, synthetic tracks are designed to provide a controlled level of slide, dissipating some of the impact forces and reducing stress on the hoof and distal limb. In contrast, surfaces with excessive grip, such as poorly maintained dirt, amplify these forces, increasing the risk of injuries.

During the support phase, when the hoof absorbs up to 2.5 times the horse's body weight, surface uniformity becomes critical. Peterson’s research underscores that uneven surfaces, like waterlogged or overly compacted turf, can lead to uneven load distribution, raising the likelihood of strain injuries to tendons, ligaments, and joints. 

Synthetic tracks, with their engineered shock-absorbing properties, excel in maintaining stability during this phase, effectively minimising these risks. The rollover phase, where propulsion forces peak, also places significant demands on grip and shear strength. Synthetic surfaces are particularly effective here, offering consistent traction to prevent slips while avoiding the overstress on tendons and ligaments caused by overly hard or high-grip surfaces.

In addition to biomechanical insights, Peterson's white paper emphasises the importance of consistent surface maintenance. Even the best-engineered tracks can lose their safety advantages without proper upkeep. The study highlights the need for regular monitoring of moisture levels, compaction, and grip, alongside the use of advanced tools like surface testing equipment and ground-penetrating radar to proactively identify and address hazards. By maintaining these standards, synthetic surfaces can sustain their intended performance and safety benefits over time, reducing injury risks for both horses and riders.

These findings align closely with real-world injury data, such as that collected through the EID, which shows significantly lower rates of injuries and fatalities on synthetic tracks compared to dirt and turf. Peterson’s work further supports this data by demonstrating how the controlled grip, shock absorption, and uniformity of synthetic surfaces mitigate the extreme forces associated with high-speed galloping. 

As racing organisations increasingly prioritise equine welfare, integrating these biomechanical insights and maintenance best practices into surface design is becoming essential. This evolution not only addresses safety concerns but also ensures that performance standards are upheld across diverse environmental conditions and year-round racing schedules.

Another pressing challenge tied to track surfaces and horse welfare is the impact of climate change, which is increasingly complicating the maintenance and safety of racing tracks. Extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, prolonged droughts, and unexpected temperature fluctuations, threaten the integrity of turf, dirt, and even synthetic surfaces. Maintaining tracks in optimal condition under these conditions is not only a logistical challenge but also critical to equine welfare and the continuity of racing schedules.

Turf tracks, which dominate the European racing landscape, are particularly vulnerable to these climate pressures. Heavy rainfall can waterlog turf, reducing its ability to provide a stable and uniform footing. Prolonged droughts pose a different but equally severe threat. 

In 2022, during an exceptionally dry summer, several racecourses in the UK, including Newmarket, faced challenges in maintaining adequate irrigation. The lack of rainfall led to concerns about the firmness of the ground, which can increase the risk of injuries to horses. To address this, racecourses have had to rely heavily on irrigation systems, though these solutions come with significant costs and raise concerns about water sustainability in drought-prone regions. 

Dirt tracks, though rare in Europe, face their own set of challenges under extreme weather conditions. Unlike synthetic tracks, dirt surfaces are highly susceptible to changes in moisture levels. Heavy rains can turn dirt tracks into dangerously muddy and slippery courses, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Even synthetic tracks, while more resilient to climatic variability, are not immune. Extreme heat can affect the surface properties, potentially leading to inconsistent footing. This highlights the need for ongoing innovation in synthetic surface technology to enhance resilience under extreme temperature conditions.

As climate change intensifies, the industry faces an urgent need to adapt its infrastructure and maintenance practices. Investment in weather-resistant technologies, such as hybrid turf systems that combine natural grass with synthetic reinforcement, is one promising avenue. Additionally, many racecourses are exploring more sustainable water use strategies and heat-resistant materials to future-proof their tracks. While these measures require significant financial and operational resources, they are crucial to maintaining the safety and sustainability of horse racing in an increasingly unpredictable climate.

At its core, the quality and maintenance of racing surfaces are fundamental to ensuring the safety and performance of both horses and jockeys. The interaction between a horse’s stride and the track is critical, with every phase: landing, support, and rollover, subjecting the horse’s legs to significant forces that vary depending on the surface type. This makes the choice and upkeep of racing surfaces a cornerstone of the sport. 

While turf continues to dominate prestigious events for its tradition, aesthetic appeal, and performance characteristics, synthetic tracks are increasingly recognised for their ability to minimise injury risks, maintain consistency across diverse weather conditions, and meet the demands of year-round racing. 

Insights from organisations like The US Jockey Club and BHA, combined with research such as Peterson’s Racing Surfaces White Paper, underline the importance of balancing innovation and tradition in surface design and maintenance. Synthetic surfaces, with their engineered properties, offer uniformity and controlled shock absorption, mitigating the biomechanical stresses that lead to injuries. 

However, turf’s natural cushioning and long-standing association with the heritage of the sport ensure its continued dominance at elite racing events. Maintaining this delicate balance is essential to enabling horses and jockeys to perform at their peak while prioritising safety and welfare. As the industry adapts to modern challenges, including climate variability and evolving performance demands, racing surfaces will remain central to ensuring the sport’s longevity and sustainability for future generations.

Trust your gut - the importance of feeding the gut microbiome for health, performance & longevity

Article by Dr. Richard McCormick, M.V.B., Dip. Eq.Sc., M.R.C.V.S. 

The science of equine nutrition is really quite simple – The horse is a flight animal and in the wild, needs to be able to escape from predators using a short burst of energy. Nutrition and subsequent ‘energy’ for survival is all provided by grass which has the required balance of vitamins, minerals, immune supportive nutrients and  fibre to maintain a healthy gut microbiota and keep the horse in adequate health for reproduction. Proper functioning of the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT)  in horses is dependent on a broad range of micro-organisms and more than half of the energy requirement for their survival comes from the microbial fermentation occurring in their enlarged caecum and colon (Chaucheyras-Durand et al 2022). The bacterial populations resident in the various compartments of the horses intestinal tract vary greatly (Costa et al 2015) and there is more DNA in the bacteria located in the gastro-intestinal tract  than there is in the entire body. Because of this, having a healthy gut flora is critical to having a healthy immune system.

In modern times, our demands of horses for performance for our pleasure rather than their survival has led to their need for increased energy that cannot be provided from grass alone. Because of this, the intricacies of diet (in particular the consumption of starch, fibre and fat) has come under scrutiny. Equine feed manufacturers have looked for additional sources of starch, a carbohydrate and a natural component of grass that is ‘essential  to provide energy, fibre and a sense of fullness’ (Seitz 2022). Today, most horses and rapidly growing foals are commonly fed diets with >50% of total ration by weight in the form of grain ‘concentrates’ and carbohydrates from oats, maize, soya, barley and wheat. These grain based feeds contain high concentrations of soluble, easily fermentable starches but can be deficient in certain minerals and vitamins so getting an optimally balanced feed ‘right’ is difficult.

Too much of a good thing  

With advances in scientific knowledge, we now know that when a horse is exposed to surplus starch, the hydrogen ion concentration of their gut increases promoting  the production and absorption of lactic acid, acetate and propionate through the activity of fermentation (Ralston 1994). The process is quick, with lactic acid entering the bloodstream within 3 hours of feeding and calcium subsequently being excreted in the urine.  In order to combat this nutrient loss, the horses’ hormone system triggers the release of parathyroid hormone into the bloodstream, activating the release of stored calcium (to maintain optimal blood levels) but unfortunately causing  bone demineralisation. Clinically, the horse experiences health consequences of varying degrees including digestive diseases (eg: gastric ulcers, diarrhoea, colic or colitis), muscle dysfunction (eg: rhabdomyolysis (known as ‘tying up’), defective bone mineralization (expressed as increased incidence of stress fractures and developmental orthopaedic diseases), systemic diseases (such as laminitis, equine metabolic syndrome and obesity (Chaucheyras-Durand et al 2022) as well as potential causes of fatigue.

The ideal equine diet 

There is little equine focused research available on the benefits of individual nutrients (due to limited numbers in trials and their subsequent evaluation) of grain ‘concentrates’. But we do know that ingredient availability and quality is regularly influenced by market pressures. 

The table (fig 1) below outlines the sugar, starch and fibre components of the various ingredients commonly found in horse feeds. The optimal grain for equine nutrition with its efficient energy source through lower starch content (relative to other grains) and its high level of soluble fibre (relative to other grains) are oats.

Oats are highly digestible and do not require heat treatment or processing prior to feeding (unlike all other grains). They are the only grain that is easily digested raw and the least likely to cause insulin spikes and blood sugar fluctuations. Unfortunately, oats are not a ‘complete’ nutrient source as they are high in phosphorous and low in calcium. For adequate bone and muscle development as well as proper blood formation, oats must be balanced with additional vitamins and minerals.

The healing power of omegas and short chain fatty acids 

While grass provides optimal equine nutrition in its own right, the ‘curing process’ when making hay depletes the valuable omegas 3 and 6 intrinsic in grass. These ‘healing’ nutrients naturally protect the lining of the gastro-intestinal tract by increasing mucous production and alleviating ‘auto digestion’ (via hydrochloric acid). For horses, bacterial fermentation in the hind gut also results in the production of Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), namely acetic, proprionic and butyric acids. These SCFAs ‘cross talk’ with the gut immune system providing local immunity in the gut as well as protection of the respiratory system, the brain and other tissues against disease. In human medicine, it has been repeatedly established that a dysfunctional gut microbiome is associated with respiratory problems. This is evidenced by the fact that when gut disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome  (IBD) or Coeliac disease exist in humans, they are commonly associated with a higher incidence of respiratory infections and related asthmatic like conditions. Barragry (2024) explores the relationship (Fig 2) between gut microbiome and the immune system's ability to support health and combat disease in cattle. A scenario mirrored in the equine.

The stabled horse should be provided with SCFAs daily to support proper functioning gut microbiome. This critical dietary consideration should ideally be provided in the form of flaxseed which has the highest ratio of omegas 3 and 6 (in the ideal ratio 4:1) in the plant world and is most suitable for the equine herbivore.

The health benefits of flaxseed for both humans and equines has been recognised as early as 3,000 BC. Flaxseed was used for various medicinal purposes such as the treatment of gastric disorders, as a soothing balm for inflammation and as a laxative (Judd, 1995). Horsemen (who relied heavily on their equines) and trainers (who sought optimal performance from their charges through natural means) also used flaxseed as a way to supplement the diet with omega-3’s and fibre to produce high quality proteins. Now, thirteen centuries later, we have research to substantiate the knowledge of our ancestors. The renowned German researcher of ‘fats’ and pioneer in human nutrition, Dr. Joanna Budwig, as early as the 1950’s reported that “the absence of highly unsaturated fatty acids causes many vital functions to weaken". Dr. Budwig’s life’s work focused on the dietary ‘imbalance’ between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in humans has been a cornerstone to the exploration of the role of inflammation and the development of many diseases of the coronary, respiratory, metabolic and immune system.

The small seed of the flax plant is also an excellent source of high-quality protein (exceeding that of soybeans and fish oils) and potassium (a mineral that’s important for cell and muscle function). But, the true power of flaxseed lies in three key components: 

Omega-3 essential fatty acids – Also known as "good" fats, omegas enhance the oxygen usage of cells and in combination with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) are anti-inflammatory in their effect within the body.

Lignans – Flaxseed contains 750 - 800 times more lignans than other plant foods (McCann 2007, Yan 2014). Lignans are a group of compounds with antioxidant properties which also contain plant oestrogen. Lignans are linked to a reduced risk of developing osteoporosis, heart disease and cancer.

Fibre - Flaxseed contains both the soluble and insoluble types of fibre essential for maintaining ‘gut’ health.

In equines, adding flaxseed to the diet has the immediate benefits of a shiny, healthy coat and fewer skin allergies. Consistent use of flaxseed has multiple long term benefits including strong hoof quality, improved joint health, reduced muscle soreness, faster healing of ulcers (Sonali et al 2008) and significantly impacts inflammation associated with chronic skin conditions (commonly known as ‘sweet itch’). In breeding stock, increased Omega-3 levels in mares’ milk leads to boosted immunity in foals with higher stallion fertility and improved conception rates in broodmares documented (Holmes, 2015).

How diet can influence performance 

It is easy to think that ‘providing more is better’ when it comes to using nutrition to support performance. But having excess levels of essential vitamins and minerals being processed by the horses’ sensitive gut has a direct impact on their behaviour and willingness to perform. Today, we have greater ‘choice’ at the feed store with a broad range of commercial feeding offerings available including mixes, mashes and supplements but the discerning horse owner can be forgiven for being overwhelmed by the range of diet options for every ailment and stage of life.

In modern times, despite advances in nutrition offerings, we have seen a falloff in performance (Fig 3). During the late 1960s, the U.S. Jockey Club stats noted that racehorses averaged 12 starts per year – a far cry from today's horses racing in the U.S. where the average of 3 ‘starts’ was highlighted by leading US Trainers in 2020 (www.ownerview.com). Unfortunately, this is not just a U.S. based problem, but a phenomenon noted worldwide. 

The first equine pelleted feed was formulated in the US by the Cistercian  monks in Gethsemani, Kentucky in 1957. Prior to this, all horses were fed ‘straights’ (primarily oats as their energy source and flaxseed as their protein source). My own understanding of the link between modern feeding practices and compromised performance since the 1960s has been curated off an understanding of “what was different” then, as well as a career of observations, clinical practice and scientific review. Fact is, the equine diet of the 1960s was lower in starch and high in fibre. It consisted of oats, minerals, and flaxseed as the “norm”. Hay was the preferred forage (Fig 4).

Today, soya (with one fifth of the omega 3 content of flaxseed) has practically replaced flaxseed as the protein source in equine nutrition. This small change has seen a significant drop in omega-3 and 6 (needed for prostaglandins) in the diet with consequential gastro-intestinal and joint issues. Other dietary changes include those recommended by the National Research Council (NRC) in 1978, who suggested doubling the recommended calcium levels for horses with a subsequent increase in levels of Osteochondrosis (OCD) and Osteopetrosis in the equine population (Krook and Maylin, 1989). Additional moisture in the diet too has led to excess mould formation in convenience feeds and with severe exposure causes liver damage (Buckley et al 2007). Stabled racehorses today mostly lack the nutritional protection afforded a previous generation of horses. The impact has been noted clinically in the widespread increase in equine gastric issues and as stated by J.E. Anthony “Racing fans are missing about half of what they once enjoyed in racing.”

The role of the gut bacteria in the prevention of disease

The gut microbiome begins populating and diversifying from the moment of birth. Though ‘sterile’ in utero, gut derived DNA immediately drives immune health with exposure to nutrition. Recent research suggests that the gut microbiome can be stimulated by using proven probiotics with a track record in enhancing gut health (Barragry 2024). But it is the protective power of SCFAs to allow ‘cross talk’ between the lungs and the gut microbiome that is critical to supporting horses through their lifespan. 

Nutrition using grain ‘concentrates’ is currently at approximately  99% saturation in today’s equine population so a return to feeding ‘straights’ is a swim against the tide of modernity. But, knowing the influence of nutrition on health, performance and longevity it falls on horse owners to be mindful of the consequential  impacts  such convenience feeds have on the gut microbiome and immune system. Random supplementation and high starch feeds are leading to dietary health issues such as gastric ulcers, hyperinsulinemia and  hyperlipaemia (obesity) as well as increased risk of laminitis . So trust your gut and keep it simple – a diet of oats, flaxseed, a multi-vitamin balancer and ad lib hay will not only meet your horses’ energy needs but will keep them happy and healthy too.

REFERENCES

Barragry. TB (2024) WEB https://www.veterinaryirelandjournal.com/focus/254-alternatives-to-antibiotics-probiotics-the-gut-microbiome-and-immunity

Buckley T, Creighton A, Fogarty (2007)  U. Analysis of Canadian and Irish forage, oats and commercially available equine concentrate feed for pathogenic fungi and mycotoxins. Ir Vet J. 2007 Apr 1;60(4):231-6. doi: 10.1186/2046-0481-60-4-231. PMID: 21851693; PMCID: PMC3113828.

Budwig, Dr. J (1903-2008) WEB https://www.budwig-stiftung.de/en/dr-johanna-budwig/her-research.html

Chaucheyras-Durand F, Sacy A, Karges K, Apper E (2022). Gastro-Intestinal Microbiota in Equines and Its Role in Health and Disease: The Black Box Opens. Microorganisms. 2022 Dec 19;10(12):2517. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms10122517. PMID: 36557769; PMCID: PMC9783266. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9783266/

Holmes, R (2015) Feeding for stallion fertility. WEB 

https://www.theirishfield.ie/feeding-for-stallion-fertility-172113/

Judd A (1995) Flax - Some historical considerations. Flaxseed and Human Nutrition, S C Cunnane, L U Thompson. AOCS Press, Champaign, IL 1995; 1–10 [Google Scholar]

Martinac, P (2018) What are the benefits of flaxseed  lignans?  WEB https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-flaxseed-lignans-8277.html

National Research Council. 1989. Nutrient Requirements of Horses. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press.

Ralston, S VMD, PhD, ACVN (1994) The effect of diet on acid-base status and mineral excretion in horses in the Journal of Equine Practice. Vol 16 No. 7. Dept of Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903

Seitz, A  (2022) What to know about starch_Medically reviewed by Seitz, A - MS, RD, LDN, Nutrition — WEB https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-starch#benefits

Sonali Joshi, Sagar Mandawgade, Vinam Mehta and Sadhana Sathaye (2008) Antiulcer Effect of Mammalian Lignan Precursors from Flaxseed, Pharmaceutical Biology, 46:5, 329-332, DOI: 10.1080/13880200801887732

The role of the lymphatic system in energy metabolism

Article by Peter Bollen, head nutritionist Cavalor

In recent years, focus has turned towards the emerging science of the lymphatic system. It is as important as the circulatory system (which includes the heart and the blood vessels), and is fundamental to the functioning of the body and central to the immune system, energy metabolism, detoxification and energy availability in the horse’s body.

A horse with a well-functioning lymphatic system can metabolise energy and clear metabolic waste more efficiently, leading to enhanced performance and faster recovery. 

So how can we tap into the benefits of an effective lymphatic system? Well, the first step is in understanding what it is. We might know that nutrients and oxygen are carried in the bloodstream towards our tissues, but what about how they are actually delivered to the cells?

This is where the lymphatic system comes in. Broadly speaking, it runs in parallel to the circulatory system and creates the point of delivery to the cells and tissues. The circulatory system carries the blood via arteries and vessels, which get smaller as they reach the muscle tissue as capillaries - where the wall is only one cell thick.  

This enables smaller molecules such as nutrients and oxygen to be pushed out of the capillaries and into the fluid around the cells - or lymph - while retaining larger cells like erythrocytes (red blood cells). 

The lymphatic system is an extensive network of vessels and nodes that transports lymphatic fluid around the body and it has two main functions:

1. Energy metabolism - transporting nutrients and oxygen to the cells

All the cells and tissues of a horse’s body are surrounded by a watery gel-like substance called interstitial fluid. This provides a medium for dissolved oxygen and nutrients to travel across to the cells. Lymph capillaries, carrying these substances, run through the interstitial fluid. The walls of these capillaries are also only one cell thick and have overlapping junctions, which make them highly permeable and allow easy transfer of materials.

In practical terms, this means the horse’s muscles and tissues get all the energy they require to carry out all their metabolic processes. As well as being responsible for giving cells the oxygen and nutrients they need, the interstitial fluid transports salts, hormones, neurotransmitters, coenzymes, amino acids, sugars and fatty acids around the body via the lymphatic system.

“A horse with a well-functioning lymphatic system can benefit from increased energy and enhanced performance, but without feeling too fresh or fizzy”

2. Detoxification: processing waste products

During the season, horses are placed under physiological demands and their body has a lot to process. In hard exercise and in races, their body will produce a lot of waste products. Their thin-walled lymph vessels also allow interstitial fluid into them to remove the waste products of cell metabolism (such as cell debris, bacteria, dead blood cells, pathogens, toxins, lactic acid and protein molecules) from each cell. This process is just as important as carrying necessary materials to the tissues to provide energy. 

These metabolic waste products are carried in the lymph away from the cells for detoxification. This is the term used for the continuous processes in the horse’s body to remove those waste products or metabolites that are naturally produced.

Detoxification takes place mainly in the liver, kidneys and intestines, so it is really important to ensure that those organs in the horse are healthy and functioning well. By supporting the liver and kidneys, you can help this breakdown process and allow the horse to better metabolise compounds that would otherwise be toxic if they remained in the body.

Gut health is also very important to the lymphatic system and detoxification, given that more than half of the lymphatic vessels of the horse are located within the gastrointestinal tract. 

Peristalsis (the natural contraction and relaxation of the gut wall) drives the return of lymph to the rest of the body. Movement in the gut is stimulated by food consumption (mainly long fibres) and is crucial to lymphatic system function as there is very limited muscular contraction in the horse’s lymphatic vessels themselves. This means it relies on passive forces from movement of other systems in the horse’s body as opposed to active muscle contractions.

Ensuring sufficient feed for a horse around the clock is crucial, not only for maintaining gut health, but to maintain a healthy immune system and detoxification process as well.

Lymphatic system and immune function

In addition to lymph and lymph vessels, the horse has around 8000 lymph nodes. These bundles of lymphoid tissue and proteins act as a filter for foreign substances that travel through the lymphatic fluid and contain lymphocytes (white blood cells) that help the body fight infection and disease. This means that the lymphatic system is also key to the functioning of the immune system.

As the lymph tissue approaches each lymph node, it slows down and collects in that area. Horses have so many lymph nodes that they are extremely susceptible to lymph node blockage. Lymph nodes can actually be felt or sometimes seen at various points around the horse’s body, particularly around the head and neck or when they are swollen.

Keep on moving

Movement is so important for horses, precisely because of the fact that there are no direct muscular contractions within the walls of the lymph vessels to promote the flow of lymph. The functioning of their lymphatic system relies on the force of movement of other structures in the body, such as the movement of the skin to apply pressure to the underlying tissues and stimulate the transport of lymph through the vessels.

In the modern day, racehorses can be stabled for longer periods of time. It is very common to see leg swelling, which has a very simple explanation in terms of the immune system. This principle of continuous movement being necessary applies especially to the legs, where this elastic movement of the skin is assisted by a pump mechanism in the hoof and fetlock joint. It is thought that this is the case due to there being no muscles in the lower limbs of the horse to aid the movement of lymph from this area.

Horses therefore need to move extensively and perhaps almost constantly (up to 16 hours per day) to keep the lymph circulating around the body, and standing still for too long significantly impairs the functioning of the lymphatic system.

Practical tips for a healthy lymphatic system

1. Turn horses out as much as possible  

Horses that are standing still for long periods of time are at risk of an impaired lymphatic system, which can impact the immune system, recovery time and ultimately performance. Turnout makes a happier horse and a healthier horse.

2. Cool down for at least 15 minutes after exercise

The period of time immediately after training is important for removal of metabolic waste products and keeping a horse moving after a hard training session stimulates the lymphatic system to continue to remove waste products from cells, which includes the removal of lactic acid. By cooling down properly after every session, you can significantly improve recovery times.

3. Consider feeding supplements that can directly benefit the lymphatic system

Functional herbal ingredients in innovative supplements can support lymphatic system function. Cleavers (Galium aparine) is known to bring benefits to the lymphatic system. Couch grass (Elymus repens), Nettle (Urtica dioica), and Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) are all known to have purifying effects which can support metabolism and detoxification.

Even Lionel Messi, Usain Bolt or Iga Swiatek have picked up issues through their sporting careers, despite having elite support teams behind them. Unfortunately injuries do just happen, but with foresight, preparation and providing the best nutritional support to their horses, trainers will give themselves the greatest chance of avoiding yet another bad news phone call to an owner.

Hydrotherapy for performance - the benefits of water based conditioning - hydrotherapy as a mechanism for enhancing performance in the racehorse

What is hydrotherapy?

The historic use of water for therapeutic benefit in the equine industry has taken a leap in development in recent decades, from the humble use of cold hosing a swollen limb through to the development of water treadmills and water walkers for injury rehabilitation and performance development. Cold hosing and other forms of cooling localised areas of the body is more correctly termed cryotherapy—meaning, it aims to harness the benefits of reduction in temperature to treat mainly acute and oedemic injuries. By reducing temperature of the local area, for example, a distal portion of a limb, several key functional changes occur. First, local blood flow is reduced. This is especially useful if an open wound is involved; the precapillary sphincters constrict and direct blood away from the area. Secondly, there is evidence that nociceptors, involved in the perception of pain and sensory receptors located at the end of peripheral nerve endings can be temporarily suppressed with local application of cryotherapy. Following a brief summary of cryotherapy, this article is going to focus on hydrotherapy as a mechanism for enhancing performance in the racehorse, focusing on the specific parameters of fitness that can be targeted and thus improved.

• Fundamental properties of water

There are several fundamental principles of water that can be used as a recovery tool to facilitate optimum rehabilitation and ongoing performance improvement. When immersed in water, or made to move through water, the horse’s body, like the human, encounters a medium for which it is not designed, and locomotion is of limited efficiency. It is in fact the imposed limited efficiency that is useful in different training contexts—it forces the body to work harder than on dry ground, thus improving fitness and better preparing the horse’s body for future athletic tests. Similarly, the method of human altitude, or hypoxic training, is where the body will learn to produce the same amount of energy with a significantly lower available amount of oxygen and thus benefit at a later date in a competitive environment.

The effect of hydrostatic pressure increases as water depth increases.

First, and most important in an equine fitness protocol, is the viscosity of the water creating resistance; the resistance offered by water is greater than that experienced in locomotion on dry ground, therefore requiring greater overall effort to move through it. Exercising in water has shown to provide up to 15 times the resistance of exercising on land. This factor alone means that the trainer can achieve a far more challenging training environment without the horse experiencing the concussive forces on the limbs associated with high-end aerobic or anaerobic land based exercise, such as works on a gallops. Resistance also works indirectly at lower water levels whereby horses will choose to step over the water in a bid to avoid resistance. Therapists then utilise this to gain increased flexion at limb joints (further discussion of this throughout the article). Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted on an object when immersed in water. Depth of immersion is an influential factor with greater depth correlating with greater pressure. Depending on the type of hydrotherapy system used, the benefits of hydrostatic pressure will vary. For example, greater hydrostatic pressure will be exerted when using a swimming lane with depths of up to two metres, as opposed to depths of 30-60cm of water on a treadmill. Application of hydrostatic pressure greatly benefits the recovery processes, acting in a similar way as compression bandages. The pressure reduces the formation of oedema, or swelling, and improves the elimination of muscular by-products such as lactic acid and carbon dioxide. Buoyancy is not utilised in the same way as it is in humans and small animal hydrotherapy, except in the use of swimming lanes; this is partly due to the obvious size difference and limitations associated with submerging a horse almost completely in water. Buoyancy is achieved when the weight of the fluid displaced by the body is equal, also accounting for the force of gravity on the body. To remain buoyant, the two forces must counterbalance one another. Once this balance occurs, the body is essentially weightless, allowing exercise without the impact of joint load experienced in land-based exercise. These properties act together during water-based exercise to produce the increased benefits to the horse’s fitness discussed in this article.

• What happens during a hydrotherapy session?

Horses are typically introduced to the hydrotherapy equipment to acclimate them and ensure they will be relaxed while exercising. It is important for the horse to establish a relaxed frame when working on the treadmill or in the hydrotherapy pool to prevent any stress-related or compensatory posture during the workout. As we know from land-based exercise, if a horse is stressed, they are likely to tire more quickly; so in order to utilise this workout, acclimation is beneficial. When using a treadmill, it is typical that the horse warms up on a dry treadmill prior to adding water. As with land-based exercise, a thorough warmup ensures adequate preparation of the horse’s muscles to be ready for harder work during the session.

• The bodily systems during exercise

During a hydrotherapy session, the horse’s different bodily systems will be affected in several ways. But essentially, the efficiency and smooth-running of these systems all contribute to overall performance quality, and any deficiencies will act as an overall limitation. The cardiovascular system is often considered to be the horse’s engine during locomotion, working with the respiratory system in concert to provide the horse with the oxygen needed for exercise as well as dispelling by-products. Working as a muscular pump, the heart delivers oxygen and nutrient-rich blood across the body via a network of blood vessels that develops further with long-term consistent exercise. Supplying this oxygen are the nasal structures; as obligate nasal breathers, horses must breathe through their noses. Flaring of nostrils and dilation of the horse’s larynx work to provide a greater cross-sectional area of space for oxygen uptake. When exercise begins, the previously oxygenated muscles begin to work and enter temporary oxygen debt. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems combat this by working harder to produce a continual supply of oxygenated blood by increasing the number of breaths taken per minute, thus increasing oxygen intake. During hydrotherapy exercise, the respiratory system will be required to deliver elevated levels of oxygen and removal of increased quantities of carbon dioxide. This is because the horse begins to work towards the higher levels of aerobic exercise. At rest, the horse will be taking in approximately 60 litres of air per minute; when moving towards moderately strenuous exercise, this can increase to as much as 2,250 litres of air per minute. From here the heart increases in beats per minute to keep up with this demand. When still working with oxygen the exercise is considered aerobic; when the horse reaches a speed or exercise intensity where they require greater oxygen than is available, the horse will begin working anaerobically. In a hydrotherapy setting, the treadmill can be considered more the equivalent of strength and conditioning training where heart rate does not rise significantly. On the contrary, swimming increases heart rate significantly without the concussive forces of traditional gallop work. This is when the horse is unable to utilise oxidative processes quickly enough—also known as maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). Any further energy must be generated by anaerobic glycolysis. The horse cannot sustain long periods of anaerobic exercise, but instead the horse’s aerobic capacity becomes greater and thus delays onset of the anaerobic exercise.

Incidentally, horses also experience respiratory locomotor coupling in higher intensity canter and gallop work—a phenomenon that epitomises the efficiency of the horse as a performance animal. The stride and breath are in sync at a harmonious 1:1 ratio; they must lengthen their stride to increase their speed. From a fitness point of view, the respiratory system is often considered the horse’s limiting factor where minimal conditioning takes place of the related structures. Additionally, the horse’s respiratory system is highly specialised for exercise. This means that any damage to or deficiency of the respiratory system can have significant influence on overall performance. Unlike in the human, the horse’s resting heart rate does not lower with increased fitness; therefore, opportunities to measure fitness are reduced to monitoring during exercise and in the recovery phase.

Fitness testing methods may include blood-lactate tests, monitoring of respiratory and exercising heart rate, recovery rate from exercise—with the fitter the horse, the quicker the recovery rate. Like on dry treadmills, the controlled indoor nature of the hydrotherapy environment lends itself well to applying various fitness testing equipment as opposed to some of the environmental constraints often found in in-field exercise environments such as out on a gallops. In contrast, to the respiratory system, the horse’s muscular system has great potential for improvement, and targeted use of hydrotherapy can be hugely beneficial. …

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