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Is gastric acid the problem?!?!

Updated: May 3



Horse Eating Hay

Sound familiar?

For many horse owners, just hearing those words is enough to make your stomach drop. But let’s break it down, because understanding the cause is the first step toward preventing and managing gastric stress in your horse.

What Events Stress Horses Out?

While every horse is unique, two major stressors are consistently reported in research:

  • Transportation (trailering, flying, etc.)

  • Intense physical activity (show jumping, endurance riding, racing)

Personality and past experiences also play a big role.

How Does Stress Lead to Gastric Irritation?

Both psychological and physiological stress disrupt gastrointestinal homeostasis and contribute to oxidative damage.

🧪 A 2023 study revealed that:

  • Horses showed decreased gut motility and gastric sounds after transport

  • Gastroscopy performed before and 12 hours after transport showed worsened gastric ulcers, some as severe as grade 4

⚠️ That’s right — serious gastric ulcers can form within just 12 hours post-transport.

Is Acid Really the Problem?

We often blame gastric acid — and traditionally treat stress-related ulcers with omeprazole (Gastrogard/Ulcergard), a proton pump inhibitor that reduces acid.

But here’s the twist:

📉 In the 2023 study, horses did not show lower gastric pH after transportation — but still had worsening ulcers.


Mind blown, right?That means gastric acid might not be the only cause of stress-related ulcers in horses.

What Can You Do?

🥕 Feed a Small Meal Before Travel

  • Feeding within 6 hours of transport offers a protective effect

  • Alfalfa is especially beneficial for buffering stomach acid (due to its calcium content)

  • Avoid overfeeding to reduce impaction risk — a small meal is ideal

🌿 Support GI Homeostasis with Supplements

While direct research in horses is limited, supporting the gut microbiome and intestinal lining has promising benefits.

Recommended Ingredients:

  • Saccharomyces boulardii & cerevisiae – supports digestion, healthy pH, and gut flora

  • Beta Glucan – modulates the immune system during stress, supports gut lining

  • Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) – antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, balances blood sugar and may protect laminae

These ingredients support the entire GI system, not just acid suppression — promoting resilience during stress.

Why We Include These in Equi-Gut+

Our Equi-Gut+ supplement is specifically formulated to support horses during times of stress, travel, and training.

It includes:

  • 🟢 Marshmallow Root

  • 🟣 Saccharomyces boulardii & cerevisiae

  • 🔵 Beta Glucan

All chosen for their research-backed roles in reducing inflammation, enhancing digestion, and supporting gut lining and immune health.

Final Reminder

🚨 If your horse is showing signs of colic or gastric distress, ALWAYS call your veterinarian.Supplements are supportive, not a replacement for professional care. Time matters with ulcers and GI issues.

We hope this info helps you make better choices for your horse’s wellbeing — especially during stressful times like competition or travel.

Wishing you and your horse calm bellies and happy trails. 💗



 
 
 

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