Pre-, Pro- and Post-biotics: An explainer

Pre-, pro- and post-bitoics get a lot of attention in the world of equine nutrition. There is lots we do know, but even more that we don't (but we're working on it!) This week, I'll explain what each actually is and why we need more research in horses. Some of the references used for this podcast are listed below. Adams, A.A., et.al. 2015. The effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (DHA) and prebiotic supplementation on inflammatory cytokine production and immune responses to vaccination in old horses. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 35(5):407-408. Auwerda, P. Undated. Digestive anatomy and physiology of the horse. Iowa State Extension and Outreach, Equine Science. Accessed online at: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/equine/blog/dr-peggy-m-auwerda/digestive-anatomy-and-physiology-horse Coverdale, J.A. 2016. Can the microbiome of the horse be altered to improve digestion? Journal of Animal Science. 94(6):2275-2281. Heaton, C.P., et al. 2019. Are prebiotics beneficial for digestion in mature and senior horses? Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 76: 87-88. National Research Council. 2007. Nutrient Requirements of Horses, 6th Ed. National Academies Press. Washington, DC.Ray, L. 2018. Understanding a horse’s digestive system. University of Georgia Extension. Accessed online at: https://site.extension.uga.edu/forageteam/2018/09/understanding-a-horses-digestive-system/ Respondek, F., et al. 2011. Dietary supplementation with short-chain fructooligosaccharides improves insulin sensitivity in obese horses. Journal of Animal Science. 89(1):77-83. Weese, J.S. 2002. Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 22(8):357-360.