What’s the issue with wheat?

1. Digestive Sensitivity:

Horses have a unique digestive system designed to process fibrous plant material. Wheat and wheat middlings are rich in starches and carbohydrates that can be difficult for horses to digest properly. These ingredients can disrupt the delicate balance of the horse’s hindgut, potentially leading to issues such as colic and laminitis.

2. High Starch Content:

Both wheat and wheat middlings have high starch content, which can lead to rapid fermentation in the hindgut. This fermentation process can result in an overproduction of lactic acid, causing a drop in pH levels and increasing the risk of hindgut acidosis. This condition can lead to digestive upset, discomfort, and even serious health issues.

3. Imbalance in Nutrient Ratios:

Horses require specific ratios of nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, to maintain their health. Feeding wheat or wheat middlings as a primary source of nutrition can lead to imbalances in these essential nutrients. This can affect the horse’s coat quality, muscle development, and overall performance.

4. Laminitis Risk:

Laminitis, a painful inflammatory condition affecting the hooves, is a serious concern for horse owners. Feeding high-starch feeds like wheat and wheat middlings increases the risk of laminitis development. The rapid fermentation of starches in the hindgut can lead to an excessive release of toxins and endotoxins, contributing to laminitis episodes.

5. Insulin Resistance and Obesity:

A diet high in starches and carbohydrates can lead to insulin resistance in horses. Insulin resistance affects the body’s ability to properly regulate blood sugar levels and can result in obesity, which in turn increases the risk of various health issues, including metabolic syndrome and founder.