PROBIOTICS AND DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS IN HORSES: USEFUL OR NOT?

摘要

Feed supplements are all substances fed to a horse in addition to a diet of forage, which technically would also include grain. However, the term is now most often used to describe additional nutrients (vitamins, minerals, extra protein, energy, herbal supplements and other neutraceuticals as well as probiotics). Neutraceuticals are defined as a food or a part of food that provides medical or health benefits, including prevention or treatment of disease. These feed supplements have become popular forthe prevention or treatment of various diseases, such as gastrointestinal disease, osteoarthritis, equine gastric ulcer disease and others in recent years. Feed supplements are also promoted as performance enhancers and digestibility improvers. Many probiotic and nutraceutical formulations are available for horse owners over the counter in North America, claiming various health benefits for horses. Many contain a selection of nutrients while some only contains specific vitamins. Many horse owners administer, but also some veterinarians recommend these products based on anecdotal evidence or based on the claim on the label. Scientific, peer reviewed evidence behind these formulations is limited with only few products having been researched, with disappointing results. Additionally there is also the issue of quality control, which is not regulated by the authorities. Not only can this be a waste of money, but also dangerous, as not all products might be safe for use in horses.