What Are Balancers

Mineral Balancers vs. Gut Balancers for Horses:

What’s the Difference and Why Does It Matter?

Introduction

Caring for your horse’s health is a rewarding journey, and ensuring they receive the right nutritional support is a big part of it. Two key supplements that can make a real difference in your horse’s well-being are mineral balancers and gut balancers. While they both play crucial roles in keeping your horse happy and healthy, they each focus on different aspects of their overall health. Understanding how these supplements work and what they do can help you make thoughtful decisions about your horse’s diet. In this blog, we’ll explore the unique benefits of each, how they contribute to your horse’s wellness, and offer some friendly advice to help you choose the best options for your equine friend.

What is a Mineral Balancer?

Mineral balancers are supplements designed to provide horses with the correct balance of essential minerals they need for optimal health. These minerals are crucial for a variety of bodily functions, including:

Bone health: Minerals like calcium and phosphorus help build and maintain strong bones.
Muscle function: Magnesium, sodium, and potassium aid in muscle contraction and relaxation.
Nerve function: Essential minerals support the nervous system, helping with responsiveness and coordination.
Overall vitality: Trace minerals such as zinc, copper, and selenium contribute to immune function, hoof health, and overall resilience.

Why is a mineral balancer important?

In many regions, the soil where hay and grass grow is deficient in certain minerals, meaning that even if your horse is grazing on pasture or eating high-quality forage, they may not be getting all the essential nutrients they need. A mineral balancer is formulated to address these deficiencies, ensuring that your horse’s diet is balanced and complete.

Mineral imbalances can lead to a range of issues such as weak hooves, poor coat condition, decreased performance, or a lower immune function. Sometimes it can even lead to serious health problems like developmental disorders in young horses or metabolic issues in older ones.

When should you use a mineral balancer?

believe all horses can benefit from being on a mineral balancer. However, if you're unsure whether your horse needs one, consider these key indicators:

Your horse's diet consists mainly of pasture or hay from mineral-deficient soil. If you are unsure about the nutrient content of your grass and/or hay, Forage Plus provides an Analysis Service. They even provide a water analysis. They can then tailor make the right balancer mix for your horse’s environment.
You've noticed signs of deficiency, such as a dull coat, brittle hooves, or lethargy.
Your horse is on a high-grain diet, which may lack essential micronutrients.

If any of these apply, a mineral balancer could help ensure your horse is receiving the necessary nutrients for optimal health.

and now onto gut balancers…

What is a Gut Balancer?

A gut balancer is a supplement designed to promote digestive health by supporting the gut microbiome. The gut plays a crucial role in a horse’s overall health because it is responsible for digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and protecting the horse from harmful pathogens.

Gut balancers typically contain ingredients like:

Probiotics: Live beneficial bacteria that aid in digestion and balance gut flora.
Prebiotics: Food for the beneficial bacteria, promoting their growth and activity. These are usually fibers.
Enzymes: These help break down feed more efficiently, ensuring your horse gets the most nutrients out of their food.

Why is a gut balancer important?

Horses are hindgut fermenters, meaning they rely heavily on their gut bacteria to break down fibrous plant material and absorb nutrients. When the balance of bacteria is disrupted, whether by stress, illness, or a change in diet, it can lead to digestive problems such as gas, bloating, colic, diarrhea, or poor nutrient absorption.

A gut balancer helps restore and maintain the balance of good bacteria, supporting healthy digestion and overall gut health.

When should you use a gut balancer?

If your horse experiences digestive issues like loose stools, gas, or bloating.
After antibiotic treatments, which can disrupt the gut microbiome.
During times of stress or dietary changes, such as travel or switching feeds/fields.
If your horse suffers from conditions like ulcers or colic.

Which Does Your Horse Need?

Choosing between a mineral balancer and a gut balancer depends on your horse’s current diet, health, and specific needs.

If your horse is grazing or eating hay from a mineral-deficient area or showing signs of a nutrient imbalance, a mineral balancer is likely the right choice.
If your horse has a history of digestive issues, stress-related gut problems, or is prone to ulcers, a gut balancer will help maintain digestive health and comfort.

For many horses, both supplements can work together. A healthy gut is essential for absorbing nutrients, so even if you’re providing a well-balanced diet, poor gut health could prevent your horse from fully benefiting from it. Conversely, a horse with a healthy gut may still need additional minerals if their forage or feed is lacking in those nutrients.

Should My Horse Stay On a Gut Balancer All The Time?

Whether horses should stay on a gut balancer all the time depends on their individual health, lifestyle, and dietary conditions. Gut balancers, which typically contain probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes, are designed to promote healthy digestion and maintain a balanced gut microbiome. Here are some factors to consider when determining if your horse should remain on a gut balancer year-round:

When Horses May Benefit from Long-Term Gut Balancer Use

1. Horses with Digestive Sensitivities

If your horse has a history of digestive issues such as colic, ulcers, diarrhea, or chronic loose stools, keeping them on a gut balancer long-term can help support gut health and prevent flare-ups. Horses with sensitive stomachs may have trouble maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, especially after periods of stress or illness, so continual support can be beneficial.

2. High-Performance or Competition Horses

Horses involved in intense training or regular competitions are often subjected to higher stress levels, frequent travel, and changes in diet, all of which can disrupt the digestive system. Gut balancers can help keep their microbiome stable, improving nutrient absorption and reducing the risk of digestive upset.

3. Horses on High-Grain Diets

Diets high in grain can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in a horse's gut, leading to conditions such as acidosis or colic. A gut balancer helps by introducing beneficial bacteria that support fiber digestion and maintain a healthy pH level, making it a useful ongoing supplement for horses on grain-heavy diets.

4. Horses Recovering from Illness or Antibiotic Use

Antibiotics, while necessary for treating infections, can also wipe out beneficial gut bacteria. If your horse has recently undergone antibiotic treatment, a gut balancer can help restore healthy bacteria and speed up the recovery of the digestive system. For some horses with weakened immune systems, staying on a gut balancer for extended periods could be beneficial.

5. Older Horses or Horses with Poor Nutrient Absorption

Older horses may have reduced digestive efficiency, meaning they don't absorb nutrients from their feed as well as younger horses. Gut balancers can help improve digestion and nutrient uptake, which is particularly important for maintaining weight and overall health in senior horses.

When Gut Balancer Use May Not Be Necessary Year-Round

1. Horses on a Balanced, Natural Diet

If your horse is on a forage-based diet (mainly hay or pasture) and is otherwise healthy, with no history of digestive problems, they may not need a gut balancer year-round. Horses evolved to thrive on a diet high in fiber, and many can maintain a healthy gut microbiome without continual supplementation if they have access to quality forage.

2. Low-Stress Horses

Horses with a low-stress lifestyle—those that are not frequently traveling, competing, or experiencing significant environmental changes—may have a more balanced gut microbiome naturally. In such cases, gut balancers may be used only during periods of increased stress (e.g., during a change in diet, medication, or when exposed to environmental stressors).

3. As a Short-Term Support During Transitions

Some horse owners prefer to use gut balancers as needed, such as during times of transition (e.g., moving barns, introducing new feed, or preparing for competition). In this case, the gut balancer provides support during specific stress periods rather than being a constant supplement.

---

Key Considerations for Long-Term Gut Balancer Use

Cost: Keeping a horse on a gut balancer year-round can be an additional expense. While it can be a worthwhile investment for horses prone to digestive issues, it may not be necessary for horses with no known sensitivities or digestive problems.

Over-supplementation: Though gut balancers generally have low risk of adverse effects, some experts suggest that over-supplementation with probiotics may not always be beneficial if the horse already has a healthy microbiome. Too much supplementation can interfere with the natural balance of bacteria.

Individual Needs: Every horse is different, and what works for one horse may not be needed for another. Some horses thrive on gut balancers year-round, while others do perfectly well without it.

My Favorites:

Navigating the vast choice of mineral and gut balancers available can indeed be overwhelming. Here are a few options I personally recommend, along with their key features:

1. Progressive Earth PRO HOOF Balancer

- Features: This balancer is a great choice for overall health as it combines essential vitamins and minerals with added MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) to support joint health. It also includes probiotics, which help maintain a balanced gut microbiome.

- Benefits: The inclusion of MSM can help with joint comfort and flexibility, while probiotics promote better digestion and nutrient absorption. It’s a well-rounded option for horses needing comprehensive support.

2. Science Supplements WellHorse Leisure

- Features: This product stands out for its blend of vitamins and minerals, alongside probiotics and fibers. It also includes glucosamine and MSM, which are beneficial for joint health.

- Benefits: WellHorse Leisure is designed to support both digestive health and joint function. The combination of fibers and probiotics aids in digestion, while glucosamine and MSM help maintain healthy joints. It’s ideal for horses that need support in both areas.

Both of these therefore act as a combined Mineral balancer and Gut Balancer.

Tips for Comparing Brands

When comparing different mineral and gut balancers, consider the following:

- Nutrient Content: Check the amount and variety of vitamins and minerals included. A good balancer should cover a broad spectrum of essential nutrients.

- Additional Ingredients: Look for extras like biotin for hoof health, MSM and glucosamine for joints, and probiotics like Yea-Sacc or Saccharomyces cerevisiae for digestive support.

- Formulation Quality: Ensure that the balancer uses high-quality ingredients and that the product is produced by a reputable manufacturer.

Feel free to compare these options with others to find the best fit for your horse's specific needs.

***

BONUS QUESTION: Why is Saccaromyces Cerevisae the only probiotic available for horses?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a species of yeast, is commonly used as a probiotic in horse feeds and supplements because of its proven effectiveness in supporting digestive health in horses. Here are several reasons why Saccharomyces cerevisiae is so widely used:

1. Stability and Tolerance in the Equine Gut

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is highly resilient and can survive the harsh conditions of the equine digestive system, including the acidic environment of the stomach. This makes it an ideal probiotic for horses, as it can reach the hindgut intact and start working where it’s most needed.

2. Promotes Healthy Gut Microflora

One of the key benefits of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is its ability to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as fiber-digesting microbes. Horses rely heavily on their hindgut fermentation process to break down fibrous plant material and absorb nutrients. Saccharomyces cerevisiae helps stabilize the microbial population, ensuring efficient digestion and nutrient absorption.

3. Improves Fiber Digestion

Horses’ natural diets are high in fiber, and efficient fiber digestion is critical for energy production and overall health. Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been shown to improve the breakdown of fiber in the hindgut, leading to better nutrient absorption and improved gut function. This is particularly important for horses on high-forage diets.

4. Reduces Lactic Acid Accumulation

During fermentation, some harmful bacteria can produce lactic acid, which may lead to issues like acidosis, colic, or laminitis. Saccharomyces cerevisiae helps to stabilize the gut environment by promoting the growth of bacteria that reduce lactic acid production, making it an important probiotic for preventing these issues in horses.

5. Well-Researched and Proven

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is one of the most studied probiotics in equine nutrition. Its efficacy in promoting digestive health, improving fiber digestion, and reducing digestive upsets has been supported by numerous studies. This extensive research base gives horse owners and manufacturers confidence in its benefits.

6. Safe for Horses

As a naturally occurring yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae is generally regarded as safe for horses. It is non-pathogenic and does not pose the risks associated with other types of live bacteria or yeast strains that may disrupt gut balance.

7. Prevents Digestive Upset from High-Grain Diets

Horses on high-grain or concentrate diets are at greater risk of digestive disturbances, such as colic or ulcers, due to the rapid fermentation of starches in the hindgut. Saccharomyces cerevisiae helps buffer these effects by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria and aiding in the digestion of these starchy foods, reducing the risk of digestive upset.

8. Supports Horses Under Stress

Horses exposed to stress—whether due to travel, competition, illness, or changes in diet—often experience disruptions in their gut microbiome. Saccharomyces cerevisiae can help maintain gut health during these stressful periods, supporting immune function and reducing the risk of gastrointestinal problems.

Why Not Other Probiotics?

While Saccharomyces cerevisiae is the dominant probiotic in horse feeds, it doesn’t mean that other probiotics aren’t beneficial. However, bacteria-based probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, which are more common in human supplements, tend to be less effective in horses because of the unique composition and pH levels of their gastrointestinal system, particularly the hindgut. These bacterial probiotics may not survive long enough to reach the hindgut, whereas Saccharomyces cerevisiae is hardy and thrives in the conditions of the equine digestive tract.

Conclusion

Choosing the right supplements for your horse can be a bit of a puzzle, but you’re already on the right track by seeking out the best solutions. Mineral balancers and gut balancers each offer special benefits that support different aspects of your horse’s health. By understanding their roles and keeping an eye on your horse’s specific needs, you can make informed choices that contribute to their happiness and vitality. Remember, every horse is unique, and what works for one may not be necessary for another. With the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to helping your horse thrive. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet or equine nutritionist—they’re there to support you and your horse every step of the way.

As with any supplement, it’s important to evaluate your horse's individual needs, lifestyle, and health status. Consulting with an equine veterinarian or nutritionist can help you make the best decision based on your horse’s specific situation.

The information provided is based on general knowledge of equine nutrition and health, as well as common practices and recommendations in the field. For more detailed and specific guidance, you can consult these types of sources:

Veterinary Textbooks: Books such as "Equine Nutrition and Feeding" by David Frape and "Nutritional Supplementation in Horses" by H. E. "Doc" Brockman provide in-depth insights into equine nutrition and supplements.
Research Articles: Academic and industry research on equine health, nutrition, and the efficacy of specific supplements, such as those found in journals like Journal of Equine Veterinary Science or Equine Veterinary Journal.
Equine Nutritionists: Websites and resources from professional organizations and equine nutritionists, such as the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and the British Horse Society.
Supplement Manufacturers: Reputable brands like Progressive Earth, Science Supplements, and Alltech often provide detailed product information and research backing their supplements, such as Yea-Sacc and other gut health products.
Veterinarians: Consulting with an equine veterinarian or nutritionist for personalized advice and recommendations based on your horse’s specific needs.

These sources offer a wealth of information to help guide decisions about equine supplements and overall care.