Iron Supplementation 36

In recent years, a link has been made between excess iron and insulin resistance in horses, however it is unclear as to whether excess iron causes or exacerbates IR, or whether IR horses have a reduced ability to regulate absorption. Either way, there is no benefit to adding more iron to the diet, so best to play it safe and avoid additional iron. Additionally, high levels of iron suppress the absorption of copper and zinc – both very important trace minerals that are typically lacking in common feeds. Bleached coats and poor quality hooves are a common symptom of this. Correct ratios between these 3 minerals need to be maintained, and to balance the already high iron levels, additional copper and zinc is already required in most diets. The more iron in the diet, the more copper and zinc need to be added –

All in all, there simply is no good reason to add iron to horses’ diets, and a few good ones to avoid or reduce it. Why do so many companies add iron to their products and promote it as beneficial? I don’t know, and it is one of the reasons horse owner’s need to be careful about which supplements they choose. Integral Equine Nutrition’s custom equine supplements do not contain iron (or anything else your horse doesn’t need!).

* Some feed companies that include iron in their products will point out that dietary iron absorption from plants is low, around 10-15%. This is true, however the dietary requirements recommended by the National Research Council already take this into account, so it is not a reason to supplement more iron.

BAnVetBioSci (Hons I), MAnSci Sophie runs Integral Equine Nutrition, providing independent, science-based nutrition services and customised advice. After gaining a solid foundation during her Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience (Hons I), Sophie worked for 5 years in medical research. A problem horse of her own and a desire to return to her passion led Sophie to the field of equine nutrition, conducting a study on turmeric in preventing gastric ulcers in horses to complete her Master of Animal Science. Integral Equine Nutrition is based in northern Sydney, and specialises in on-site visits in Sydney and surrounds.

Photo courtesy of Dave Taylor

Independent, science-based feed & management advice including Sophie Fletcher - Visits (Greater Sydney region, can travel) Equine Nutrition Consulting BAn VetBioSci (Hons I), MAnSci - Pasture & hay analysis Independent, science-based feed & management advice including: • Visits (Greater Sydney region, can travel) • Pasture & hay analysis - Diet formulation - Custom pelleted supplement: the easy way to feed an optimal diet or balance your pasture 0407 405 594 • sophie@integralequine.com.au www.integralequine.com.au