Nutritional Management of Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcer syndrome can be time-consuming and expensive to treat. Learn how to use nutrition to manage
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It’s one of the most common phrases that equestrians hear and say: "My horse has ulcers." One of the most prevalent disorders in the equine community, gastric ulcer syndrome can be time-consuming and expensive to treat, so many owners and managers seek ways to prevent their horses from developing the stomach lesions in the first place. At the 2011 Alltech International Animal Health and Nutrition Industry Symposium, held May 22-25 in Lexington, Ky., Dennis H. Sigler, PhD, a professor in the department of animal science at Texas A&M University, discussed how careful dietary management can reduce the prevalence of equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) in horses.

"We don’t have all the answers about EGUS, but we’re finding out a lot of information," Sigler said, adding that recent studies have indicated that 93% of racehorses, 60% of other performance horses, and 56% of foals are affected by the disorder.

Ulcers can develop in both the nonglandular and glandular portions of a horse’s stomach, and they are most commonly found in the area of the margo plicatus (the region that separates the glandular from nonglandular portions of the stomach). The glandular part of the stomach contains a mucosa with glands that secrete acid and pepsin, which are important aids in the early digestion of food. The glands also produce bicarbonate and mucus, which help form a protective barrier over the mucosal surface. This protects the glandular stomach from the damaging effects of acid and pepsin. The non-glandular region, however, has few defenses and is particularly susceptible to injury caused by stomach acid (i.e., ulcers)

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Erica Larson, former news editor for The Horse, holds a degree in journalism with an external specialty in equine science from Michigan State University in East Lansing. A Massachusetts native, she grew up in the saddle and has dabbled in a variety of disciplines including foxhunting, saddle seat, and mounted games. Currently, Erica competes in eventing with her OTTB, Dorado.

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