The Horse HealthCast by SmartPak: Macros, Micros & the NRC
Macros, Micros, and the NRC
When we talk about feeding horses, it’s easy to focus on individual ingredients or the latest nutrition trend. But how do we actually know what nutrients horses need in the first place? In this episode of Horse HealthCast, Ashlee and Jenna are joined by Dr. Brian Nielsen, internationally recognized equine exercise physiologist, university professor, researcher, and co-author of the National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements of Horses. Together, they take a deeper look at the science behind equine nutrition, including how nutrient requirements are established, what separates macronutrients from micronutrients, and how those requirements can be used to evaluate a horse’s ration. They also discuss why nutritional needs aren’t one-size-fits-all and how factors such as the individual horse, workload, and other circumstances can influence what a horse needs from their diet. Whether you’re interested in the science behind equine nutrition or simply want to better understand what goes into evaluating a ration, this episode offers a fascinating look at the research behind the feed bucket.
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Links from the episode:
Educational Articles:
Nutrient Requirement of Horses (browser version)
Nutrient Requirement of Horses (print version)
Bonus! Dr. Nielsen & Taffy Race
The Horse HealthCast by SmartPak
The Horse HealthCast is hosted by SmartPak’s own in-house horse owners, who mix expert-backed knowledge with real-life barn experience. Each episode is designed to give you smart, practical solutions to help your one-of-a-kind horse thrive.
Missed the last one? Catch our episodes on colic and colic surgery, fly frustrations, and the science behind joint supplements (and every episode!) at the Horse Radio Network, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podcast Addict, or anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Be sure to subscribe so you’re always in the loop, your horse (and we!) will thank you.
