Today, I focus on vitamin C, one of my favorite nutrients. 

Vitamin C is super handy. It is not a miracle cure, but I have seen it work wonders for horses, so it is worth remembering. 

In this episode, I explain how and when to use Vitamin C. Most people use it to boost the immune system, but it is also great for keeping horse hooves healthy, so that is what we explore today.

Stay tuned to find out why Vitamin C is the one nutrient you should always keep close at hand.

Winter Laminitis and Hoof Health 

People often ask me questions about managing winter laminitis, pain, and inflammation in horses. While Vitamin C is not a direct anti-inflammatory, it stands out among nutrients for its versatility. It is essential for hoof repair and recovery, making it a staple for any tack room. When owners understand the importance of hoof trimming and do not rely only on supplements, they can better address chronic laminitis and hoof pain.

The Importance of Understanding Hoof Health 

Horse owners must know what a healthy hoof looks like and understand trimming techniques. Studying a horse's hooves can be complicated, but it is helpful. So rather than only relying on supplements or medications, it is far better for owners to learn about the long-term benefits of maintaining hoof health. 

Nutritional Considerations for Hoof Health

Although trimming issues can contribute to hoof pain, nutrition also plays a significant role. While minerals like selenium, biotin, zinc, and copper often get discussed for horses, Vitamin C tends to get overlooked because horses are able to produce it naturally. However, several issues, including stress, emotional strain, toxicity, inflammation, and various illnesses, may increase the demand for Vitamin C.

Understanding Vitamin C Deficiency 

Contrary to popular belief, horses can become deficient in Vitamin C, leading to various health issues. Soft soles, chronic bruising, and poor wound healing are common signs of a Vitamin C deficiency. By recognizing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, chronic infections, and swollen joints, horse owners can identify the potential deficiencies and address them accordingly.

Vitamin C and Hoof Health 

Vitamin C plays an essential role in collagen formation, and collagen is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the hoof wall and blood vessel walls. Vitamin C deficiencies can lead to weakened hooves, bruising, and slow wound healing. Supplementing with ascorbic acid can help to address the those deficiencies and promote overall hoof health.

Supplementation and Management 

When supplementing with vitamin C, you should start with a low dose and monitor how the horse responds. While Vitamin C can be helpful for therapeutic use, it is necessary to approach long-term supplementation with caution to avoid disrupting the mineral balance. Also, remember that when you supplement with Vitamin C, you need to balance it with other nutrients, like selenium, for optimal equine health.

Conclusion 

Understanding the multi-faceted role of Vitamin C in hoof health is essential for horse owners. When owners can recognize the signs of a Vitamin C deficiency and supplement appropriately, it can go a long way in helping to support their horses' overall well-being. Always remember to approach supplementation cautiously and prioritize a holistic approach toward equine health and nutrition.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

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Horses can be picky, and they prefer certain flavors more than others. This week, I share five healthy food options your horse will love.

Unfortunately, processed food has become unavoidable within the horse industry today. So, owners must be diligent about making the best food choices possible.

This episode will help you experiment with different tasty and nutritious food options. Join me as I explore several wholesome and enjoyable feed alternatives for your horse.

Whole Food Options for Horses

The current prevalence of processed food in the horse industry has steered many horse owners away from whole food choices. Many domesticated horses are confined to dry lots or rely on hay feeders, so they lack many vital phytonutrients they find when foraging naturally.

Spirulina: A Nutrient-Packed Superfood

Spirulina is a concentrated and bioavailable whole-food source of nutrition for horses. It is phytoplankton rich in protein, beta carotene, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids, with properties that aid in detoxification, cellular metabolism, and raising energy levels while regulating blood sugar and enhancing immunity. When incorporating spirulina into your horse's diet, it is best to start with small amounts, gradually increasing it to a tablespoonful a day. 

Cranberries: Tart Treats with Many Health Benefits

Cranberries contain antioxidants, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. They have anti-inflammatory properties and offer numerous other health benefits for horses, including immune support and better kidney health. Some horses may find the tart taste off-putting, but sweetened cranberries can provide a palatable alternative. I suggest you start with a quarter to half a cupful of cranberries daily.

Blueberries: A Superfood for Digestive Health and Immunity

Blueberries are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants. They support digestive health, immune function, and muscle recovery in horses. Their high fiber content aids in regulating blood sugar and promoting hydration, while their anti-inflammatory properties contribute to overall well-being. Start with a handful per day, and notice any improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms and immune function.

Chia Seeds: A Fibre-Rich Omega-3 Source

Chia seeds are dense in fiber and filled with Omega-3 fatty acids. They offer many benefits, including digestive health, satiety, bone strength, and hormonal balance in horses. Whether fed soaked or dry, chia seeds provide essential nutrients, including selenium, calcium, and magnesium. Start with a tablespoonful daily to increase your horse’s fiber intake and support its overall health.

Hemp Hearts: Complete Protein and Essential Fatty Acids

Hemp hearts, whether whole or dehulled, provide complete protein, essential fatty acids, and vital micronutrients for horses. Their anti-inflammatory properties, hormone-regulating effects, and digestive benefits make them an ideal addition to a horse’s diet. The benefits of these nutritionally dense seeds include improved skin health, better hormone regulation, and reduced inflammation. Start with a tablespoonful per day.

I suggest introducing one of these options at a time while observing your horse's preferences to gauge what they appreciate and enjoy most.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

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

Sign up for my 4-part FREE series: Become Your Horse's Healer 

Picky eating in horses is a common concern for horse owners. 

Horses, like people, can be very selective about what they like to eat- particularly after being introduced to a new feeding program containing foods they have never eaten before. Fortunately, most horses can be encouraged to enjoy their meals after some experimentation.

Sometimes, however, there are genuine reasons why a horse may be reluctant to eat, and that is what we will explore today.

Understanding Your Horse’s Preferences 

You need to understand your horse’s food preferences because prevailing opinions often stem from human perspectives rather than understanding what horses genuinely like to eat.

Addressing Health-Related Picky Eating

The main reason horses tend to be picky is not feeling well after eating something that causes indigestion. In those situations- especially for horses with compromised digestive systems, I find it helpful to simplify their diet by incorporating whole foods and then observing how the horse responds to those changes.

Medication Side Effects: 

Another factor contributing to pickiness is the side effects of medications. All medications impact the digestive system, so I advise horse owners to research potential side effects and understand that individual horses may react differently toA medications.

Taste Preferences and Flavors 

Horses’ taste preferences play a significant role in their picky eating, as they can be particular about flavors like salt, sour, sweet, and spicy. I like experimenting with those flavors to learn about the specific preferences of each horse.

Gradual Transition to New Feeding Programs 

I recommend a gradual transition when introducing horses to a new feeding program, especially for horses already addicted to certain foods, as abrupt dietary changes may be counterproductive. Making a slow transition allows the horse's taste buds to adjust over time.

Building a Positive Relationship 

I always emphasize the importance of building a positive relationship between a horse and its food to enhance its health. Encouraging trust in a new feeding program and observing how the horse responds over time is essential for ensuring optimum physical and mental well-being.

Links and resources:

Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website 

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

Sign up for my 4-part FREE series: Become Your Horse's Healer