EPSM Diet - Potential Nutritional
Deficiencies
by Beth A. Valentine, DVM, PhD
The following information is provided for those who are concerned
about potential nutritional deficiencies in a horse on the recommended EPSM
diet:
Protein
Decreasing the amount of hay fed, in order to decrease both caloric
intake and dietary carbohydrate, may possibly cause a dietary deficiency of
protein. EPSM horses may require a higher level of protein to rebuild and
maintain muscle mass. Alfalfa hay is therefore recommended, along with a small
amount of alfalfa pellets to mix with oil and supplements. Alternatively, feed 5
pounds of alfalfa pellets and up to 13 pounds of timothy hay. Commercial diets
such as Purina Strategy provide needed protein; Natural GIo does not.
Sodium Make a salt block available or add salt to the
oil-pellets mixture to increase its palatability.
Phosphorus To date we have not seen any problems with
phosphorus, which is present in hay and green grass.
Vitamin E/Selenium For all horses, regardless of diet, we
recommend a daily supplement that provides at least 1000 IU of vitamin E per day
and 1 mg of selenium per day per 1,000 pounds of horse, especially in
selenium-deficient areas.
Beth A. Valentine, DVM, PhD,
is involved with EPSM research and other veterinary matters at the College of
Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University. She is this site's virtual vet and
co-author of
Draft
Horses, an Owner's Manual.
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