The warm rays of sunshine, the lush grass - the grazing season is a highlight of the year for many horse owners and their four-legged friends. But behind the tempting idyll lurks a potential danger: fructan. This type of carbohydrate, mainly found in fresh pasture grass, can lead to serious health problems in some horses, especially those suffering from metabolic disorders such as laminitis or EMS.
What is fructan?
Fructan is a carbohydrate found in many grasses, especially pasture grass. It normally serves as an energy store for the plant, but is broken down during the growth process. However, during periods of strong sunlight and low temperatures, fructan production can be increased, especially in the early morning hours or at night.
The dangers for horses
For most horses, a moderate intake of fructan is harmless. However, for some, consuming large amounts can lead to serious health problems. Horses suffering from metabolic disorders such as laminitis or EMS (equine metabolic syndrome) are particularly at risk. Consuming too much fructan can worsen or trigger these diseases.
Proper grazing: The basis for health
Conscious pasture management is the first step to minimize the dangers of fructan and protect the health of horses. Here are some important points to consider:
- Choose the timing : Let your horses graze during the cooler times of the day when the fructan content in the grass is lower. Avoid grazing in the early morning hours or after sunny days.
- Limit grazing : Control the amount of time your horses spend in the pasture. Horses that are particularly at risk may need to be kept in the stable overnight or only allowed out to pasture for short periods.
- Grass management : Mow the pasture regularly to keep the grass short and reduce fructan production. Alternatively, you can use special grazing systems that control the amount of grass and the horses' access to it.
CBD: A natural option to support digestion
In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has emerged as a promising option for supporting equine health. CBD is extracted from the hemp plant and is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and calming properties.
How can CBD help manage fructan-related issues?
- Anti-inflammatory : CBD can help reduce inflammation in the body caused by fructan consumption, especially in horses suffering from laminitis.
- Pain relief : Horses suffering from the effects of fructan may experience pain. CBD can help relieve this pain and improve the horse's well-being.
- Calming : Administering CBD may help reduce stress and restlessness in horses prone to metabolic disorders, which may help prevent further complications.
The role of medicinal mushrooms Reishi and Hericium in dealing with fructan-related problems in horses
In the world of natural medicine, medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Hericium (Hericium erinaceus) are becoming increasingly important. These mushrooms are valued for their many health benefits and can also help manage fructan-related problems in horses.
Reishi: The King of Medicinal Mushrooms
Reishi is often referred to as the "King of the Mushrooms" and is known for its anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating and antioxidant properties. In the context of fructan-related health problems in horses, Reishi may offer several benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory : Reishi can help reduce the inflammatory responses in the body triggered by fructan consumption, which is especially important for reducing the pain and discomfort associated with it.
- Immunomodulatory : Horses prone to metabolic disorders such as laminitis often have a weakened immune system. Reishi can help boost the immune system and support the body's defenses, helping to prevent further complications.
- Antioxidant Effects : Reishi's antioxidant properties may help protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals that can be caused by inflammation and metabolic disorders.
Hericium: The nerve and stomach friend
Hericium, also known as "hedgehog's beard," is another medicinal mushroom with impressive health benefits. Hericium can be particularly useful in the context of fructan-related problems in horses:
- Nerve protection : Horses suffering from the effects of fructan may develop neurological problems, particularly related to laminitis. Hericium has neuroprotective properties and may help protect and regenerate the horse's nerves.
- Stomach protection : Eating too much fructan can irritate the stomach lining and lead to indigestion. Hericium can help soothe the stomach lining and support digestive functions, improving the horse's overall well-being.
- Stress relief : Horses suffering from the effects of fructan can be stressed and agitated. Hericium has calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety, which in turn promotes the horse's health.
Conclusion: Conscious care for happy horses
Fructan-related problems can be serious for horses, but with conscious pasture management and the support of CBD and medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi and Hericium, horse owners can help protect their beloved animals from the dangers of fructan and promote their digestive health.
By being aware of our horses' needs and taking appropriate action, we can ensure that they can live happy and healthy lives.
As a combination product, our gastroAKUT and gastroBALANCE are ideal for the grazing phase and also for digestive problems of various kinds. The medicinal mushrooms they contain complement our popular hemp powder with 3% CBD perfectly, hyaluronic acid helps to heal damaged mucous membranes and bromelain helps to regulate digestion and, if necessary, reduce allergies and inflammation.
