Chromium has been a part of performance horse diets for many years, however the valuable role it has in glucose and insulin metabolism has seen its application extended across a variety of equines.
In working horses, supplementation has been shown to be beneficial in reducing fatigue, as a result of lowering peak lactate levels. Energy utilization is also enhanced via improved insulin sensitivity.
More recently there has been increased interest in Chromium to support horses with metabolic issues, due to its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose clearance. In conjunction with suitable dietary management, including low NSC feeds and exercise, Chromium may be another valuable tool in the toolbox to support horses with EMS, Insulin Resistance and Cushings.
Research indicates that insulin resistance during gestation can influence the inflammatory state of the offspring, and result in an increased risk of OCD (Osteochondrosis Dissecans). Although some level of insulin resistance is a normal physiological response in the pregnant mare, management and nutritional strategies to avoid dysregulation of this process are prudent. Avoiding mares becoming excessively overweight is a key consideration, and utilising lower grain/starch feeds for mares that do require supplementary feed to maintain desirable body condition is recommended. The positive influence that Chromium has over enhancing glucose and insulin metabolism would see it as a valuable addition to the diets of pregnant mares.
Feeding young horses up to 12 months of age on low starch feeds has become a popular practice. Lower starch feeds are recognized for assisting in reducing the incidence of OCD compared to feeding a traditional high grain/starch ration. The low starch feeds avoid the high glucose and corresponding insulin response resulting from a starch-laden feed. The addition of Chromium to young horse diets may further support sound joint and cartilage development by stabilizing blood glucose and minimizing the negative effect of insulin on cartilage development.
With the benefits that Chromium offers these various categories of horses, Dunstan further extends our product offering that includes the addition of Chromium. Dunstan Fibre Grow®, Dunstan Breed and Grow, Dunstan Fibre Plus, Dunstan Sweet Mix and Dunstan All-4-Feet will join the existing feeds within the Dunstan range which include Chromium.
