Functioning of psyllium in horses
A major concern for horse owners is sand colic. Horses ingest sand through their food, which is mostly expelled through the intestines with sufficient roughage. However, when a horse ingests more sand than it can expel, there is a risk of the sand accumulating in the intestines, leading to serious colic. In these cases, it is advisable to regularly administer a "sand treatment" to cleanse the intestines. It is good practice for all horses to do this regularly as a preventive measure. Psyllium is very suitable for this due to its swelling capacity.
Scientific name:
Plantago Afra (Psyllium or Psyllium seed husks)
Type:
Annual plant
Function of psyllium in horses:
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Promotes bowel movement due to its high fiber content
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Flushes out sand due to its swelling capacity
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Slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and fats
Psyllium promotes bowel movement
By giving psyllium, you stimulate the bowel movement of the horse. When in contact with water, the seeds swell (due to mucilages) up to 10 times their own weight. This slimy mixture increases the volume of the food mash in the intestines, stimulating intestinal movements and reducing pressure in the intestines. The food mash also becomes softer due to the many mucilages and the fatty oil from the seeds.
The swelling capacity of psyllium helps to remove excess sand from the intestines, as it attaches to the sand and pushes it further through the intestines so it can be expelled with the feces. The slimy layer also helps protect the intestinal lining from the sharp sand.
Psyllium reduces the absorption of carbohydrates and fats
In humans, psyllium is known as a product that aids in weight loss. Psyllium provides a feeling of fullness, but it also temporarily binds to carbohydrates and fats, reducing their absorption. As carbohydrates are temporarily not absorbed, there are also fewer sugar spikes, resulting in less fat storage. When taken with a meal, these carbohydrates are not absorbed, reducing blood sugar levels.