Release

Australian Lupins

The Australian Lupin is a legume (similar to beans, peas, and lentils) that is grown primarily in Australia and distributed worldwide. It is characterized by a high protein and fiber content, and is naturally low in starch. Lupins contain favorable amounts and ratios of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. Rich in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus Lupins also contain vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin E. Lupins are a nutritionally dense feed option that can be utilized to lower starch in the equine diet or to replace other common feed ingredients for those horses that experience sensitivities to certain allergens.

Natural Vitamin E

All Hygain® feeds and ration balancers contain a highly stable, biologically active form of natural vitamin E (d-ɑ-tocopherol). Natural vitamin E protects cells from free radical damage while also supporting normal circulatory and neuromuscular functions. The natural form of vitamin E is preferentially absorbed by the body over synthetic sources. With pasture being the most abundant source of vitamin E in the equine diet, a formula with natural vitamin E is essential for horses who are not on full-time pasture.

Prebiotics

Prebiotic fibers promote a healthy gut flora by providing nourishment to beneficial microbes in the digestive tract of the horse, particularly the hindgut. By nourishing this environment, prebiotics support improved digestive function, a strengthened immune system, and an overall healthier horse. At Hygain®, one of our prebiotics of choice is added mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) derived from the cell wall of the specific yeast culture Saccharomyces cerevisiae 1026. Research has shown that MOS can bind harmful bacteria in the digestive tract, boost immunoglobulins in colostrum, and increase beneficial bacteria populations when provided in a horse’s diet.

Probiotics

Probiotics are direct fed (live) microbials that stimulate the activity of good bacteria in the horse’s digestive tract. The addition of probiotics to equine diets improves fiber digestion, immune response, and can maintain an appropriate pH for a healthy digestive tract. Supplemental probiotics can stabilize gut microbiota and potentially correct gut dysbiosis, which is related to gastrointestinal disease and other health challenges in horses.

Bonafide®

Vitamin K is naturally available in fresh pasture but is unstable and degrades quickly in baled forage. It has been shown that horses who are removed from vitamin K-rich pastures can have a reduction in bone density within 7-10 days. Vitamins K1 and K2 play a critical role in the function of osteocalcin which is known to bind minerals and protein in the bone together. Without enough of this vitamin, the binding process is not complete and may result in poor bone and cartilage quality. Bonafide® features Quinaquanone, a patented bioavailable form of vitamins K1 and K2 that can improve bone strength and density.

Rice Bran Oil

Hygain® RBO® Equine Performance Oil is a blend of pure rice bran oil containing essential fatty acids and natural antioxidants formulated for all equines. This unique oil contains natural vitamin E and aids as a carrier for fat-soluble vitamins. Added rice bran oil promotes a shiny coat and increases cool burning energy in the diet without promoting excitability.

Selenium Yeast

Selenium has antioxidant functions as a component of the glutathione peroxidase enzyme complex, which scavenges free radicals to limit oxidative stress in the body. The organic form of selenium, selenium yeast, has greater absorption and retention in the body when compared to inorganic forms. Through preferential uptake in the body, selenium yeast plays a critical role in optimal functioning of the muscular and nervous systems, in addition to its importance in immune system function.