How to Fix Horse Gut Issues: Colic, Diarrhea, and Ulcers with Amino Acids

Amino Acids are the Key to Unlocking the Gut Health of Horses

As horse owners, we know the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive system in our equine companions. However, despite our best efforts, gut issues like colic, diarrhea, and ulcers can still plague our horses. Fortunately, research has shown that amino acids can play a crucial role in improving gut health and alleviating digestive issues in horses.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. There are 20 different types of amino acids that can be found in proteins, and each one plays a specific role in the body. When it comes to gut health, there are a few amino acids that are particularly important.

Different types of Amino Acids? How do they help to improve the digestive system of horses?

One of the most important amino acids for gut health is glutamine. Glutamine is an essential nutrient for the cells that line the digestive tract. These cells are responsible for absorbing nutrients from the food that the horse eats, and they also act as a barrier to prevent harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. When the digestive tract is under stress, such as during times of illness or intense exercise, the demand for glutamine increases. Supplementing with glutamine can help to support the health of these cells and improve the overall function of the digestive tract.

Another  important amino acid for gut health is arginine . Arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, a molecule that helps to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract. This relaxation allows food to move more easily through the digestive system, which can help to prevent issues like colic and constipation. Arginine has also been shown to have a protective effect on the digestive tract, helping to prevent damage from harmful substances like bacteria and toxins.

 Proline is another amino acid  that is important for gut health. Proline is a component of collagen, which is the main structural protein in the body. Collagen is found in the connective tissues that support the digestive tract, including the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Supplementing with proline can help to support the health of these tissues and improve the overall function of the digestive tract.

Common Gut Issues in Horses

One of the most common gut issues in horses is gastric ulcers.  Gastric ulcers  are caused by prolonged exposure of the stomach lining to stomach acid. This can occur when horses are fed infrequently, have limited access to forage, or are subjected to stress. Research has shown that supplementing with the amino acid glycine can help to prevent and treat gastric ulcers in horses. Glycine is an important component of the mucus layer that protects the stomach lining from stomach acid. Supplementing with glycine can help to strengthen this layer and prevent damage to the stomach lining.

In addition to these specific amino acids,  protein as a whole is important for gut health in horses . Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of tissues in the body, including the cells that line the digestive tract. It is also necessary for the production of enzymes and other molecules that are involved in the digestive process. Horses that are fed a diet that is deficient in protein may be more prone to digestive issues.

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Supplementation with specific amino acids may also be beneficial for horses with digestive issues or those that are under stress. Glutamine, arginine, proline, and glycine are all available in supplement form and can be added to the horse’s feed as needed. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist before adding any supplements to the horse’s diet.

So, how can we ensure that our horses are getting the amino acids they need for optimal gut health? Equinety Horse XL Horse supplement has everything you need.

Equinety Horse XL plays a crucial role in improving gut health and alleviating digestive issues in horses. Equinety Consists of 8 amino acids that Promote Cellular Repair it has No Fillers, No Sugars, No Starches, No Soy, and No Loading Dose, each 600g Equinety Horse XL container has 100 Servings important for maintaining the health and function of the digestive tract. Providing a balanced diet along with Equinety, can help to keep horses healthy and happy. These two Equinety Products Equinety Horse XL and Equinety Ultimate OEC make for a solid supplement foundation for any horse at any stage of life no matter what their job is!

 

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