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Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition

   Welcome to my forum. 

Here you will find more than 6 years of questions and my answers. It is searchable and offers a great deal of information. 

Currently, I am discontinuing new questions. This may change in the future, but in the meantime, please know that It has been a true pleasure serving you. 

Take a look at my Nutrition Library and Tips of the Month for a variety of answers on selected topics. Be sure to sign up for my monthly e-newsletter, Forage for Thought

I also have a growing number of recordings on "Teleseminars on Nutrition Topics that Concern You" as well as the new, Spotlight on Equine Nutrition Series -- printed versions of favorite teleseminars.

And finally, look for my articles in a variety of local publications and online newsletters, as well as the Horse Journal, where I am the Contributing Nutrition Editor.  

 

All the best,

 Dr. Getty 

 



Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Re: Psyllium

Hello Gemma,

Most, if not all, overweight horses have some degree of insulin resistance. If he has body fat deposits that are regional, along the crest of the neck, along the back, on the tailhead, and shoulders, for example, that is a clear sign on insulin resistance.

So, yes, add psyllium to the diet -- 1/3 cup per meal, every day. This is based on a recent research study that revealed how psyllium, in daily doses, lowers blood glucose, and hence, blood insulin levels.

All the best,

Dr. Getty
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse

Gemma Koontz
Dr Getty,

My overweight Fjord horse is doing much better now that I have implimented your suggestions. He recieves a small amount of alfalfa pellets, 4 oz Quiessence, and Glanzen Lite Complete spread over two meals. I have also taken him of the Thyro-L. He has lost some weight and at the very least he hasn't gained any weight. I hope to move him in the spring so that he can have free choice hay. My question is whether or not I should consider adding psyllium to his regime? He is not clinically insulin resistant but I know that it can help control insulin in overweight horses.

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO