Elisha’s Podcast
ELISHA’S PODCAST

Ready to get your horses on the path to better health?
This podcast was created to do just that.
Tune in to get new insights, perspectives, horse health tips, and real-life horse healing stories.
Take what you learn and apply it to your horse TODAY.

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From learning what to feed your horse and how to use nutrition effectively, to practicing prevention and approaching specific health challenges naturally, to just bringing your horse more joy and better health…
I’ve got you covered!

Check out my recent episodes
Today, we cover three foods to avoid for better horse health. This topic ties into our last discussion, where we explored toxicity in horses and how accumulated toxins can build up over time and lead to serious health issues. Sources of Toxicity in Horses Horses get exposed to various sources of toxicity, mainly through chemicals and preservatives in their food and water, medications, vaccinations, and deworming agents. Over time, the toxins build up and can overwhelm the immune system, leading to chronic health issues like inflammation, allergies, and sensitivities. Addressing the diet and removing toxic elements is often the first step toward recovery when horses are unwell. Corn Corn has high-calorie content and energy density, making it a common ingredient in horse feed. However, corn lowers digestive pH, leading to leaky gut and immune issues. It is also high in starch, which can overwhelm the small intestine if fed in excess, as the undigested starch can reach the hindgut, where it ferments, potentially causing acidosis, colic, or laminitis. Its low fiber content and imbalance of protein and amino acids make it less suitable as a standalone feed. There is also a risk of mold contamination when corn is improperly stored. While corn can be an energy boost for horses with high caloric needs, it is best to use it sparingly. Wheat Middlings Wheat middlings, a byproduct of milling wheat for flour, are often used as a source of fiber and protein in horse feed. They can be high in phosphorus and low in calcium, creating an imbalance that can affect bone health in horses if consumed in excess. Wheat middlings can also ferment in the hindgut, leading to digestive upsets like colic or laminitis. High levels of non-structural carbohydrates in wheat middlings can also be problematic for horses prone to metabolic issues like insulin resistance or equine metabolic syndrome. While middlings can be part of a balanced diet, feed them in moderation and combine them with other sources of fiber and essential nutrients. Processed Oils Canola, soybean, corn, or hydrogenated oils are not ideal for horses as they undergo high-temperature processing that generates free radicals, harming the immune system and leading to various diseases. Soybean oil can also create hormonal imbalances due to its phytoestrogen content. It is essential to choose cold-pressed, high-quality oils and only add them to the diet when necessary. High-Fat Diets High-fat diets can provide energy for horses doing heavy work or needing to gain weight, as fats are calorie-dense and provide slow-burning energy without the risks associated with high-starch feeds. However, horses lack a gallbladder and are biologically unsuited to process large quantities of oils. So, high-fat diets can cause digestive issues, malnutrition, and liver strain, slowing gut motility and worsening conditions like colic or ulcers. Balancing Nutrition While some challenging cases, like underweight or elderly horses, may require short-term use of problematic foods or oils, the goal should always be to provide high-quality, minimally processed nutrition in the long term. Horses thrive on a natural diet that aligns with their biology. For optimum health and resilience in your horse, pay attention to sensitivities and make adjustments where necessary. Final Thoughts Avoid ingredients like corn, wheat middlings, and processed oils. Focus on natural, high-quality feeds, and tailor the feeding strategy to fit the specific dietary requirements of your horse and support its long-term health and vitality. Links and resources: 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 Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now. We are focusing on toxicity today. Toxicity is one of the leading causes of equine disease. When the toxic load of horses exceeds what they can process, it becomes hard for their tissues to be healthy, their organs to function as they should, and their body systems to work together to sustain good health. Today, I scratch the surface of the vast and complex topic of toxicity, giving you a little food for thought. Since this is a massive subject, I will likely revisit it and dive deeper into some of the points we cover today in future episodes. Understanding Toxicity in Horses Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can harm cells, tissues, organs, or entire systems. For horses, toxicity often accumulates gradually, influencing their health over time. Genetic makeup, nutrition, and environmental exposure are all factors that determine how well a horse can handle toxins. Well-nourished horses with good constitutions and minimal exposure to harmful substances are generally more resilient. Yet they can also struggle as they age, particularly between 14 and 16 years, when signs of imbalance often emerge. Early Signs of Toxicity The initial effects of toxicity can be subtle and easy to overlook. A horse may develop a dull coat, cracked hooves, or irregular shedding patterns. Subtle changes like stiffness, swelling, joint discomfort, a weakened immune system, or slow recovery from illness could also indicate that the body struggles to handle its toxic load effectively. Key Sources of Toxicity Dietary imbalances Dietary imbalances are another major factor contributing to poor equine health. Excess sugar or protein can stress the body and lead to inflammation, metabolic issues, and poor gut health, and a diet heavy in oils can disrupt the gut microbiome. Acidity Acidity in the body often results from an imbalanced diet, leading to conditions like leaky gut, systemic inflammation, and joint issues. Hormonal imbalances, such as prolonged high cortisol or insulin levels, also cause significant damage over time, contributing to tissue breakdown, laminitis, and immune dysfunction. Antioxidants Antioxidants are crucial for combating free radicals, the unstable molecules that damage cells and DNA. Free radicals naturally occur during metabolic processes but increase with high toxic loads. Without sufficient antioxidants to neutralize them, free radicals can accelerate aging, weaken the immune system, and cause long-term damage. The Cumulative Effect of Toxicity Even though toxins seldom cause immediate harm, they accumulate over time. A horse that has consumed feed with additives, dealt with multiple infections, or been on long-term medications may eventually show signs of toxicity. The cumulative effect often leads to nutritional deficiencies, compromised immunity, and declining health. Strategies for Reducing Toxicity Final Thoughts Toxicity develops slowly. Understanding the sources and taking steps to minimize exposure will allow you to help your horse maintain vitality and resilience throughout its life. Proactive care and reducing toxic burdens will ensure their long-term health and 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. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now. Horses are expensive to keep. As they get older and their health declines, horses require more care. The financial pressure of covering all the costs can lead some owners to make tough decisions, like rehoming their horses or even putting them down. Owners can tend to overcomplicate things. So today, I share some affordable yet effective strategies to care for horses when money is tight. Balancing Finances and Horse Care Many horse owners struggle with the affordability of horse care and tend to wonder whether they can afford certain expenses, particularly when they do not recognize their value. So, for example, some owners might believe that providing hay and companionship is sufficient and may overlook the importance of preventative care. The Costs of Crisis and the Importance of Prevention Sometimes, unexpected health crises that are overwhelming financially and emotionally for owners can arise from a lack of knowledge or experience in horse care. A proactive approach that includes regular exercise, reducing stress, and managing their diets can help reduce the likelihood of sudden health issues, like laminitis and metabolic disorders in their horses. By being proactive, owners can also avoid high costs in the future, especially since health problems tend to increase with age. The Emotional and Financial Toll of Ongoing Health Struggles The financial burden of expensive diagnostics and treatments can lead to frustration and exhaustion for owners. It is sometimes best to shift from extensive treatments to more natural care that meets all your horse's needs. Chronic conditions, often caused by lifestyle and dietary imbalances, are common but preventable through a balanced approach, including dietary adjustments and plenty of space for natural movement. Horses do best when their lifestyle matches their instincts, which helps minimize the risk of chronic health issues. Avoiding Over-Supplementation In trying to provide everything their horse might need, many owners overspend on supplements that are of little benefit. Yet there is no advantage to over-supplementing a horse, especially when their digestive health is poor. Instead, simplify the diet with high-quality forage, as that can lead to better and more sustainable results. The 3 Fs for Natural Horsekeeping It is best to allow horses to live naturally with plenty of space, freedom, and social interaction. When humans become overly involved with their horses, it can be stressful for them, and health issues may arise. Owners should always ensure their horses have the 3 Fs: freedom, friendship, and forage, as providing those essentials can prevent many behavioral and physical problems. Managing Chronic Conditions Without Over-Reliance on Medications Relying on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for chronic conditions like laminitis over long periods can lead to health issues like ulcers or increased inflammation in horses. Working with hoof-care professionals, ensuring enough exercise and proper movement, and making dietary changes will support natural healing and reduce the need for expensive medications. Addressing the underlying causes of chronic conditions saves money and stress over time, especially for metabolic disorders that arise from poor diets and high-stress situations. Emphasizing the Basics for Long-Term Health and Cost Savings PPID (or Cushing’s disease) can arise as horses age. By focusing on diet and lifestyle changes early on, owners can help extend the healthy years of their horses. By managing their sugar intake, reducing stress, and providing high-quality, bioavailable nutrition for their horses, owners can also avoid costly health problems later on. Some Key Points to Consider Ensure you are meeting your horse's diet and lifestyle requirements before jumping into diagnostics. Small changes, like more time outside, can significantly improve their health. When discussing tests with your veterinarian, clarify how they will inform your decisions, especially if you are on a budget. Avoid the temptation to over-supplement or try every possible treatment. Instead, focus on foundational changes, as simple dietary adjustments often resolve issues. If you feel overwhelmed, discuss your budget with your vet so they can prioritize the essential care options for your horse. Remember, the well-being of your horse is the goal, so minimizing stress is essential. Links and resources: 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 Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now.
Meet your host
Hi there, I’m Elisha Edwards

Meet your host
Hi there, I’m Elisha Edwards
I have helped guide thousands of horses back to good health over the years from a variety of different health challenges. And through my courses, webinars, and speaking engagements I educate and empower horse owner’s from around the world to take charge of their horse’s health using the holistic model of health care.
So I know first-hand how difficult and overwhelming it can be to navigate all the different opinions and conflicting information that you come across especially when your horse is faced with a health problem. In many cases, the journey is just as hard on the owners as it is on the horses.
I started Healing Horses with Elisha to guide you, support you, and encourage you through the process of prevention and recovery so you feel good about the decisions you’re making for them.
Here’s what I believe
I have seen countless horses with seemingly impossible health conditions that have been resolved so easily with the right combination of diet, nutrition, and natural remedies. In many cases, it is not the health conditions that prevents the horse from recovering, it is the lack of education, resources, and options that are available.
If the insight and information you gain from this podcast gives you some newfound hope or inspires you to take
a new approach then it has served it’s purpose.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to help you improve your horse’s health.
Keep listening and learning. Your horse is worth it.
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