FEED ADVICE – DISCIPLINES
Feeding Dressage Horses: The Ultimate Guide
Feeding dressage horses requires a specialised approach that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and stamina. Dressage demands precision, controlled energy, and excellent muscle development to perform the intricate movements required in the arena. In this guide, we will explore the best feeding practices to support your dressage horse’s physical and mental wellbeing, helping them achieve balance, power, and grace in their work.
What is Dressage?
Dressage is a discipline in which horse and rider perform a series of predetermined movements with precision and elegance.
These movements range from basic walk, trot, and canter to more advanced movements like piaffe, passage, and pirouette.
These movements range from basic walk, trot, and canter to more advanced movements like piaffe, passage, and pirouette.
A balanced and nutritious diet is essential to fuel their performance and help them maintain the topline and condition.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Dressage Horses
Dressage horses have unique nutritional requirements driven by the sustained and controlled nature of the sport. Their diet must provide:
Slow-Release Energy:
Dressage requires controlled power and endurance, best supported by a diet rich in slow-release energy sources such as fibre and fats.
Muscle Development and Recovery:
High-quality protein is essential for muscle tone and repair, as dressage horses rely heavily on strength and flexibility.
Joint and Bone Health:
Supporting long-term joint and hoof health is crucial, especially for advanced dressage movements that put additional strain on these areas.
Mental Focus and Calmness:
Dressage demands focus and calmness, so the diet should avoid feeds that create spikes in energy or excitability.
Metabolic Requirements of Dressage Horses
Dressage horses have increased metabolic needs due to the strength and control required in the sport. Their diet should focus on:
Fibre: A high-fibre diet supports slow-release energy, allowing horses to maintain the stamina required for long schooling sessions and competitions.
Fats: Offer a concentrated source of slow-release energy that supports endurance and helps maintain a calm temperament.
Protein: High-quality protein is essential for building and maintaining the muscle mass needed for strength and flexibility in dressage movements.
Key Components of a Dressage Horse’s Diet
Forage
High-Quality Hay: Forage should make up the majority of the dressage horse’s diet. Good-quality hay, such as timothy or meadow hay, provides fibre for slow-release energy and supports digestive health. Alfalfa can also be included for additional protein.
Grass: Access to good-quality grass provides natural fibre and can be a valuable source of nutrients, but the intake must be monitored to avoid weight gain or fluctuations in energy levels.
Hard Feed
Low-Starch, High-Fibre Feeds: Dressage horses perform best on feeds that provide slow-release energy without causing spikes in energy. Choose feeds high in fibre and low in cereals to support steady energy levels and calmness during training and competition. All of our feeds use superfibres to provide your horse slow release energy without fizz!
Balancers: A balancer can help ensure your horse gets the necessary vitamins, minerals, and amino acids without excessive calories. This is especially important for maintaining muscle health, coat condition, and hoof strength.
Key Components of a Dressage Horse’s Diet
Energy Sources
Fats: Vegetable oils such as linseed or soya oil are ideal for providing slow-release energy that supports endurance without making the horse excitable. Fats are also helpful for maintaining a healthy coat and promoting calmness.
Fibre: High-fibre sources such as beet pulp, chaff, and soaked hay are excellent for slow-release energy and maintaining digestive health.
Cereals: While cereals like oats and barley provide quick-release energy, they should be limited in a dressage horse’s diet to prevent excessive energy spikes or excitability.
Protein Sources
Alfalfa: Alfalfa is an excellent source of both protein and fibre, supporting muscle tone, strength, and digestive health.
Soybean Meal: Rich in essential amino acids, soybean meal supports muscle development and recovery, crucial for the physically demanding movements required in dressage.
Linseed: In addition to being a source of healthy fats, linseed provides high-quality protein to support muscle repair and overall conditioning.
Key Components of a Dressage Horse’s Diet
Supplements:
Joint Support: Supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are essential for supporting joint health, particularly as dressage places strain on the joints due to movements like piaffe, passage, and pirouette.
Hoof Supplements: Biotin, zinc, and methionine can help support strong, healthy hooves, which are crucial for maintaining balance and control in dressage movements. Did you know all our complete feeds already contain biotin?
Electrolytes: While dressage horses may not sweat as heavily as those in more intense disciplines, electrolytes can still be useful after long training sessions or competitions, particularly in hot weather.
Digestive Supplements: Probiotics and prebiotics can help maintain gut health, especially
.
Hydration:
Fresh Water: Constant access to fresh, clean water is essential to keep your dressage horse hydrated, especially during long training sessions and warm weather. Soaked feeds or hay can also help promote hydration.
Feeding Tips for Dressage Horses
Energy for Control and Precision: Focus on providing slow-release energy from fibre and fats to fuel your horse’s work without creating excess energy or excitability.
Monitor Body Condition: Regularly assess your horse’s body condition score (BCS) and adjust their diet accordingly. Dressage horses should maintain a healthy weight to optimise their movement without becoming overweight or undernourished.
Post-Exercise Nutrition: After intense training sessions, provide high-quality protein to support muscle recovery and maintain your horse’s condition.
Consistency in Feeding: Feed your horse at the same times each day to maintain digestive health and ensure steady energy levels. Avoid large meals just before or after exercise.
Tailoring the Diet to Different Stages of Dressage
The dietary needs of a dressage horse will change between training, competition days, and rest periods. Adjusting the diet to these different stages will help ensure optimal performance and recovery:
Training Periods: During intense training phases, provide slow-release energy from fibre and fats, along with high-quality protein to support muscle development. Avoid quick-release energy sources that could make the horse excitable during precision work.
Competition Days: Ensure your horse has access to light, high-fibre feeds before and after the competition to maintain energy levels and promote digestion without causing excitability. Hydration is crucial, so make sure your horse has plenty of fresh water and consider using electrolytes during warm weather.
Rest Days: On rest days, adjust the amount of hard feed to reflect the reduced energy requirements, focusing on high-quality forage to maintain digestive health and prevent weight gain.
Conclusion
Feeding a dressage horse requires a careful balance of energy, muscle support, and recovery. A diet rich in high-quality forage, balanced hard feed, and targeted supplements will help ensure your horse performs at their best, maintaining the strength, flexibility, and focus needed for the intricate movements of dressage. By tailoring the diet to the specific demands of the discipline and the individual needs of your horse, you can help them reach their full potential.
Hear from the Brand Ambassador– Sarah Stewart
Sarah Stewart’s early career saw her working with top event riders and managing prestigious equestrian centres, including Gleneagles Equestrian Centre and Hartpury College. After transitioning from eventing and show jumping to dressage, Sarah achieved her dream of competing at Grand Prix level with her horse Polly, overcoming significant challenges along the way. In her approach to dressage, Sarah understands that the right nutrition is crucial for maintaining her horses’ performance and well-being. Her focus is on providing a balanced diet that supports the specific needs of dressage horses, who require both energy and endurance without excess excitability.
What we Recommend for Dressage Horses
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Sugar & Starch in Your Horse’s Diet 🍏🌾
Sugar and starch provide energy, but too much can disrupt digestion, increase excitability, and raise the risk of ulcers, laminitis, and metabolic issues. Horses are designed to thrive on fibre, which offers slow-release energy without the spikes! ⚖️
Most horses do best on a low-starch, high-fibre diet, while performance horses may need controlled starch for quick energy. Balance is key! 💡
Need advice? Drop us a message! 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #equinenutrition
Sugar & Starch in Your Horse’s Diet 🍏🌾
Sugar and starch provide energy, but too much can disrupt digestion, increase excitability, and raise the risk of ulcers, laminitis, and metabolic issues. Horses are designed to thrive on fibre, which offers slow-release energy without the spikes! ⚖️
Most horses do best on a low-starch, high-fibre diet, while performance horses may need controlled starch for quick energy. Balance is key! 💡
Need advice? Drop us a message! 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #equinenutrition
The Pure Feed Team had a brilliant weekend at @horse_event5 Swalcliffe ODE and would like to say a huge well done to all the competitors, as well as the winners of the Pure Feed sections! A special shout-out to Sam Holland with Platinum Cavalier, who won the Pure Feed 90cm, and Isabella Owers with Chill, who took the Pure Feed 100cm title🏆
It was fantastic to meet so many of our current Pure Feeders and chat with lots of new faces too, answering all your feed questions and helping you find the perfect plan for your horses.
Next stop: Elmwood in May ➡️ we can’t wait to see you there! 🐎
P.S. If you picked up a ReFuel sample from us at Horse Events, don’t forget to enter our competition! 📸 Post a picture of your horse enjoying ReFuel at Horse Events, tag us, and use the hashtags #refuelwithpurefeed and #purefeedhorseevents to be in with a chance of winning a bundle worth up to £200 - including our legendary, money-can’t-buy Pure Feed saddle pad. Good luck! 🍀
#poweredbypurefeed #purefeed #thepurefeedcompany
The Pure Feed Team had a brilliant weekend at @horse_event5 Swalcliffe ODE and would like to say a huge well done to all the competitors, as well as the winners of the Pure Feed sections! A special shout-out to Sam Holland with Platinum Cavalier, who won the Pure Feed 90cm, and Isabella Owers with Chill, who took the Pure Feed 100cm title🏆
It was fantastic to meet so many of our current Pure Feeders and chat with lots of new faces too, answering all your feed questions and helping you find the perfect plan for your horses.
Next stop: Elmwood in May ➡️ we can’t wait to see you there! 🐎
P.S. If you picked up a ReFuel sample from us at Horse Events, don’t forget to enter our competition! 📸 Post a picture of your horse enjoying ReFuel at Horse Events, tag us, and use the hashtags #refuelwithpurefeed and #purefeedhorseevents to be in with a chance of winning a bundle worth up to £200 - including our legendary, money-can’t-buy Pure Feed saddle pad. Good luck! 🍀
#poweredbypurefeed #purefeed #thepurefeedcompany
Pure Feed’s Top Travelling Tips:
1️⃣ Pre-Travel Feeding
30 mins before travelling, provide a small bowl of feed - stick to familiar feeds to keep stomach acid in check. We recommend Pure Meadow Mash ....
2️⃣ Hydration is Key
Make sure your horse has access to fresh water throughout the journey.
Use Pure Refuel for hydration without upsetting the stomach!
3️⃣ Be Careful with Electrolytes
Did you know that electrolytes can irritate the stomach? We recommend feeding ReFuel to provide a soothing blend of electolytes
4️⃣ Post-Travel Feeding
🎥 - @joelsebhart & Sahara on route to Barbury Horse Trials
#poweredbypurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #travellinghorses #
Pure Feed’s Top Travelling Tips:
1️⃣ Pre-Travel Feeding
30 mins before travelling, provide a small bowl of feed - stick to familiar feeds to keep stomach acid in check. We recommend Pure Meadow Mash ....
2️⃣ Hydration is Key
Make sure your horse has access to fresh water throughout the journey.
Use Pure Refuel for hydration without upsetting the stomach!
3️⃣ Be Careful with Electrolytes
Did you know that electrolytes can irritate the stomach? We recommend feeding ReFuel to provide a soothing blend of electolytes
4️⃣ Post-Travel Feeding
🎥 - @joelsebhart & Sahara on route to Barbury Horse Trials
#poweredbypurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #travellinghorses #
Laminitis: What You Need to Know🚨
Laminitis is painful & serious - but understanding the causes can help prevent it! 🐴⚠️
🔸 Diet - High sugar/starch = insulin spikes & laminar damage.
🔸 Metabolic disorders - EMS & PPID increase laminitis risk.
🔸 Hard surfaces - Repetitive concussion can trigger mechanical laminitis.
🔸 Inflammation - Colic, infections, or illness can cause toxic laminitis.
🔸 Obesity - Excess fat = higher insulin resistance.
💡 How to Reduce the Risk
✔️ Low-starch, high-fibre diet (all Pure Feeds are low in sugar and starch ✅)
✔️ Limit grazing-spring & autumn grass = high sugar!
✔️ Encourage movement-even light work improves insulin sensitivity.
✔️ Keep weight in check—a low-calorie balancer like Pure Balance helps.
Comment `DIET PLAN` to be sent a link to a personalised diet plan, taking into account your horse`s needs including metabolic conditions such as laminitis 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #laminitis
Laminitis: What You Need to Know🚨
Laminitis is painful & serious - but understanding the causes can help prevent it! 🐴⚠️
🔸 Diet - High sugar/starch = insulin spikes & laminar damage.
🔸 Metabolic disorders - EMS & PPID increase laminitis risk.
🔸 Hard surfaces - Repetitive concussion can trigger mechanical laminitis.
🔸 Inflammation - Colic, infections, or illness can cause toxic laminitis.
🔸 Obesity - Excess fat = higher insulin resistance.
💡 How to Reduce the Risk
✔️ Low-starch, high-fibre diet (all Pure Feeds are low in sugar and starch ✅)
✔️ Limit grazing-spring & autumn grass = high sugar!
✔️ Encourage movement-even light work improves insulin sensitivity.
✔️ Keep weight in check—a low-calorie balancer like Pure Balance helps.
Comment `DIET PLAN` to be sent a link to a personalised diet plan, taking into account your horse`s needs including metabolic conditions such as laminitis 💬
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #laminitis
Spotted at @horse_event5 👀
Meet Posie 👋
Posie is an ex race horse, who is fed on Pure condition mix. With a career change Posie now turns her hoof to a bit of everything and here she is at her first ever event, at the @swalcliffeparkequestrian @horse_event5 training ODE.
The Pure Feed team are excited to be back at Swalcliffe tomorrow & Sunday to answer any nutrition questions and provide each competitor with a complimentary recovery mash! Come by the stand, say hello and claim your ReFuel sample 🍒
See you there!
🎥 - @ruthpotterpr
🐎 - @hazelantonia.stepney
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed
Spotted at @horse_event5 👀
Meet Posie 👋
Posie is an ex race horse, who is fed on Pure condition mix. With a career change Posie now turns her hoof to a bit of everything and here she is at her first ever event, at the @swalcliffeparkequestrian @horse_event5 training ODE.
The Pure Feed team are excited to be back at Swalcliffe tomorrow & Sunday to answer any nutrition questions and provide each competitor with a complimentary recovery mash! Come by the stand, say hello and claim your ReFuel sample 🍒
See you there!
🎥 - @ruthpotterpr
🐎 - @hazelantonia.stepney
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed
I think we can all agree, we are obsessed with @montieventing ‘s Joey 🤩
#throwback to our content day with Pure Feed brand ambassador, Millie Juleff. With a fantastic start to the season already, we are all excited to see where Millie goes 💪
Her string of horses are all #poweredbypurefeed 🩵
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #eventer #eventing #showjumping
I think we can all agree, we are obsessed with @montieventing ‘s Joey 🤩
#throwback to our content day with Pure Feed brand ambassador, Millie Juleff. With a fantastic start to the season already, we are all excited to see where Millie goes 💪
Her string of horses are all #poweredbypurefeed 🩵
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #eventer #eventing #showjumping
A Pure Easy transformation with Isla aka @ID.Eventing 💚 Swipe for the before!
Just look at that Pure Feed shine coming through on Olive ✨
A big thank you to Isla for taking the time to get in touch and sharing this with us. If you have seen great results from feeding Pure Feed, we`d love to hear from you!
Let us know what you think of Pure Feed via DM, email or leave us a review on Trust Pilot.
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purestud #equinenutrition #pureeasy
A Pure Easy transformation with Isla aka @ID.Eventing 💚 Swipe for the before!
Just look at that Pure Feed shine coming through on Olive ✨
A big thank you to Isla for taking the time to get in touch and sharing this with us. If you have seen great results from feeding Pure Feed, we`d love to hear from you!
Let us know what you think of Pure Feed via DM, email or leave us a review on Trust Pilot.
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purestud #equinenutrition #pureeasy
Is Grass Safe for Laminitis-Prone Horses? 🌱
Not all grass is equal! Sugar levels (NSCs) change depending on time, season & temperature 🌡️
Gazing times explained:
☀️ Morning (before 10 AM) - Safer ✅ (NSC levels lower overnight).
🔆 Midday-Afternoon - High risk 🚨 (Sun = NSC spike!).
🌙 Evening/Night - Varies 🤔 (Cold temps = sugar accumulation).
🚨 Spring & Autumn = Peak Risk! 🚨
Fast-growing spring grass + stressed autumn pasture = laminitis danger zone.
💡 Minimise Risk
✅ Turn out early morning before NSC levels rise.
✅ Use a grazing muzzle-reduces intake without full restriction.
✅ Feed low-NSC forage (soaked hay is a great option!).
✅ Balance the diet with low-sugar, high-fibre feeds (like Pure Feed!)
Need more help? Stress not! We are on hand to help, get in touch
📞 01458 333 333
💻 info@purefeed.com
📩 Send us a dm
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #laminitis
Is Grass Safe for Laminitis-Prone Horses? 🌱
Not all grass is equal! Sugar levels (NSCs) change depending on time, season & temperature 🌡️
Gazing times explained:
☀️ Morning (before 10 AM) - Safer ✅ (NSC levels lower overnight).
🔆 Midday-Afternoon - High risk 🚨 (Sun = NSC spike!).
🌙 Evening/Night - Varies 🤔 (Cold temps = sugar accumulation).
🚨 Spring & Autumn = Peak Risk! 🚨
Fast-growing spring grass + stressed autumn pasture = laminitis danger zone.
💡 Minimise Risk
✅ Turn out early morning before NSC levels rise.
✅ Use a grazing muzzle-reduces intake without full restriction.
✅ Feed low-NSC forage (soaked hay is a great option!).
✅ Balance the diet with low-sugar, high-fibre feeds (like Pure Feed!)
Need more help? Stress not! We are on hand to help, get in touch
📞 01458 333 333
💻 info@purefeed.com
📩 Send us a dm
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #laminitis
Meet Megan & Willie 👋
@megan_devonport
As Megan explains, Willie struggles with equine gastric ulcer syndrome. But by changing to a low starch & sugar, free from molasses and cereal Pure Feed diet, Megan has seen a vast improvement in him.
For more help and advice about navigating equine nutrition, get in touch with our team.
#thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #pureworking
Meet Megan & Willie 👋
@megan_devonport
As Megan explains, Willie struggles with equine gastric ulcer syndrome. But by changing to a low starch & sugar, free from molasses and cereal Pure Feed diet, Megan has seen a vast improvement in him.
For more help and advice about navigating equine nutrition, get in touch with our team.
#thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove #purefeed #poweredbypurefeed #pureworking
We’re pleased to share that Rose Mill Feeds in Ilminster (TA19 9DW) is a Pure Feed stockist! 🛒
@rosemillfeedsilminster
📞 +44 1460 712123
We love supporting our stockists! If you supply Pure Feed and would like us to showcase your business, please reach out to marketing@purefeed.com for your own stockist spotlight post ⭐️
Alternatively if you`re a retailer interested in stocking Pure Feed, we’d love to hear from you!
#Proudtostockpurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
We’re pleased to share that Rose Mill Feeds in Ilminster (TA19 9DW) is a Pure Feed stockist! 🛒
@rosemillfeedsilminster
📞 +44 1460 712123
We love supporting our stockists! If you supply Pure Feed and would like us to showcase your business, please reach out to marketing@purefeed.com for your own stockist spotlight post ⭐️
Alternatively if you`re a retailer interested in stocking Pure Feed, we’d love to hear from you!
#Proudtostockpurefeed #thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
Laminitis-Safe Feeds: What’s Best for Your Horse?
Unlike many brands, almost every Pure Feed product is suitable for laminitic horses!
❌ No cereals, no molasses, no unnecessary starch!
Our range:
🔹 Pure Balance = Low-cal balancer, ideal for good doers.
🔹 Pure Fibre Balance = Extra fibre + small feeding rate.
🔹 Pure Easy = Low-cal, high-fibre mix with slow-release energy.
🔹 Pure Working = More calories for horses in regular work, still low in starch.
🔹 Pure Veteran Mix/Pellets = Soft, easy-to-digest for older horses.
🔹 Pure Condition Mix = Supports weight gain without excessive starch.
🔹 Pure Linseed = Omega-3 for skin, coat & condition.
🔹 Pure Meadow Mash = Hydrating, quick-soaking fibre source.
🔹 Pure Refuel = Low-starch recovery feed for hard-working horses.
🚫 Avoid: High starch feeds & cereals like oats, maize & wheat.
📖 Not sure what to choose? Try our free diet plan! 🔗 link in bio!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
Laminitis-Safe Feeds: What’s Best for Your Horse?
Unlike many brands, almost every Pure Feed product is suitable for laminitic horses!
❌ No cereals, no molasses, no unnecessary starch!
Our range:
🔹 Pure Balance = Low-cal balancer, ideal for good doers.
🔹 Pure Fibre Balance = Extra fibre + small feeding rate.
🔹 Pure Easy = Low-cal, high-fibre mix with slow-release energy.
🔹 Pure Working = More calories for horses in regular work, still low in starch.
🔹 Pure Veteran Mix/Pellets = Soft, easy-to-digest for older horses.
🔹 Pure Condition Mix = Supports weight gain without excessive starch.
🔹 Pure Linseed = Omega-3 for skin, coat & condition.
🔹 Pure Meadow Mash = Hydrating, quick-soaking fibre source.
🔹 Pure Refuel = Low-starch recovery feed for hard-working horses.
🚫 Avoid: High starch feeds & cereals like oats, maize & wheat.
📖 Not sure what to choose? Try our free diet plan! 🔗 link in bio!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed
Thank you for your patience. For help please contact us:
📞 01458 333 333
💻 info@purefeed.com
📩 Send us a dm
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #excitingtimesahead
Thank you for your patience. For help please contact us:
📞 01458 333 333
💻 info@purefeed.com
📩 Send us a dm
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #excitingtimesahead
Hopping on the #actionfigure trend with the ReFuel pony set. Cherry the pony comes with a feed scoop, a feed bucket and a bag of Pure ReFuel.
💧 Electrolytes to aid hydration
💪 Amino acids to support muscle recovery
👏 Pre and Probiotics to promote digestive health
🌟 Vitamin C, E and Selenium to protect from muscle fatigue and soreness
🍒 Tasty berry and cherry flavouring to tempt fussy eaters
… all included in Pure ReFuel!
Unfortunately the set is unavailable for purchase but fear not! You can buy a 15kg bag of ReFuel for your horse, 89p per serving and each 500g serving has 46g of sugar and starch which is 9.2%! 🍒
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purefeedrefuel #purerefuel #rehydrationmash #recoverymash
Hopping on the #actionfigure trend with the ReFuel pony set. Cherry the pony comes with a feed scoop, a feed bucket and a bag of Pure ReFuel.
💧 Electrolytes to aid hydration
💪 Amino acids to support muscle recovery
👏 Pre and Probiotics to promote digestive health
🌟 Vitamin C, E and Selenium to protect from muscle fatigue and soreness
🍒 Tasty berry and cherry flavouring to tempt fussy eaters
… all included in Pure ReFuel!
Unfortunately the set is unavailable for purchase but fear not! You can buy a 15kg bag of ReFuel for your horse, 89p per serving and each 500g serving has 46g of sugar and starch which is 9.2%! 🍒
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #purefeedrefuel #purerefuel #rehydrationmash #recoverymash
🐴 How Horses Use Sugar & Starch for Energy
Not all energy sources are the same! Here’s how your horse digests & uses sugar vs starch:
🔬 Digestion 101
✔️ Sugar = Quick absorption → Immediate energy.
✔️ Starch = Enzymatic breakdown → Stored as glycogen for later.
⚡️ How the Body Uses Them
✅ Fast fuel for exercise – Muscles use glucose for movement.
✅ Stored glycogen – Acts as an energy reserve.
✅ Converted to fat – Excess sugar is stored long-term.
✅ Gut balance – Too much starch can disrupt hindgut pH, leading to acidosis & colic.
⚖️ The Right Balance = Healthy Metabolism & Performance
✔️ Forage first – Hay/grass provide fibre-based energy.
✔️ Low-starch feeds – Prevent insulin spikes & digestive issues.
✔️ Slow-release fuels – Fibre & oil provide energy without sugar crashes.
📸 - @equiellis
🐴 How Horses Use Sugar & Starch for Energy
Not all energy sources are the same! Here’s how your horse digests & uses sugar vs starch:
🔬 Digestion 101
✔️ Sugar = Quick absorption → Immediate energy.
✔️ Starch = Enzymatic breakdown → Stored as glycogen for later.
⚡️ How the Body Uses Them
✅ Fast fuel for exercise – Muscles use glucose for movement.
✅ Stored glycogen – Acts as an energy reserve.
✅ Converted to fat – Excess sugar is stored long-term.
✅ Gut balance – Too much starch can disrupt hindgut pH, leading to acidosis & colic.
⚖️ The Right Balance = Healthy Metabolism & Performance
✔️ Forage first – Hay/grass provide fibre-based energy.
✔️ Low-starch feeds – Prevent insulin spikes & digestive issues.
✔️ Slow-release fuels – Fibre & oil provide energy without sugar crashes.
📸 - @equiellis
Get to know Pure Feed Brand Ambassador Millie Juleff @montieventing 🩵
Millie is a talented young rider, competing at 4*. With an impressive and competitive string of horses for the coming season we are proud to be supporting Millie and her string.
Take your season to the next level with expert nutrition. Get in touch with our nutrition team, who are always on hand to help.
📧 nutrition@purefeed.com
💬 DM us
📞 01458 333 333
#poweredbypurefeed #purefeed #thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove
Get to know Pure Feed Brand Ambassador Millie Juleff @montieventing 🩵
Millie is a talented young rider, competing at 4*. With an impressive and competitive string of horses for the coming season we are proud to be supporting Millie and her string.
Take your season to the next level with expert nutrition. Get in touch with our nutrition team, who are always on hand to help.
📧 nutrition@purefeed.com
💬 DM us
📞 01458 333 333
#poweredbypurefeed #purefeed #thepurefeedcompany #allyoufeedislove
💚 Pure Easy 💚
Pure Easy is a fully balanced, complete feed designed to meet all your horse’s nutritional requirements without the need for extra supplements. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in supporting gut health, muscle function, hoof strength, and sustained energy levels - all while keeping sugar and starch to a minimum.
🔬 Scientifically Formulated for Total Nutrition:
➡️ Built-in Balancer
➡️ Chaff Included
➡️ Slow-Release Energy
➡️ Pre- and Probiotics
➡️ Salt
🚫 Free From:
Soya-Free - Ideal for horses with intolerances.
Alfalfa-Free - Gentle on sensitive stomachs.
Cereal-Free & Molasses-Free - Keeping starch (6%) and sugar (4%) low for controlled energy.
No Mould Inhibitors & No NIS (Nutritionally improve straw) – Just clean, high-quality ingredients.
With 33% fibre, low sugar and starch, and a carefully balanced nutrient profile, Pure Easy makes feeding simple - everything your horse needs in one bag, with nothing they don’t.
Do you feed Pure Easy? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #pureeasy
💚 Pure Easy 💚
Pure Easy is a fully balanced, complete feed designed to meet all your horse’s nutritional requirements without the need for extra supplements. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in supporting gut health, muscle function, hoof strength, and sustained energy levels - all while keeping sugar and starch to a minimum.
🔬 Scientifically Formulated for Total Nutrition:
➡️ Built-in Balancer
➡️ Chaff Included
➡️ Slow-Release Energy
➡️ Pre- and Probiotics
➡️ Salt
🚫 Free From:
Soya-Free - Ideal for horses with intolerances.
Alfalfa-Free - Gentle on sensitive stomachs.
Cereal-Free & Molasses-Free - Keeping starch (6%) and sugar (4%) low for controlled energy.
No Mould Inhibitors & No NIS (Nutritionally improve straw) – Just clean, high-quality ingredients.
With 33% fibre, low sugar and starch, and a carefully balanced nutrient profile, Pure Easy makes feeding simple - everything your horse needs in one bag, with nothing they don’t.
Do you feed Pure Easy? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #pureeasy
Did you known the entire Pure Feed range is free from molasses? 💪
Why is this important?
❌ No Sugar Spikes – Molasses is high in sugar, which can cause unwanted energy surges and make some horses fizzy or difficult to manage.
🌿 Ideal for Horses with Metabolic Issues – Our feeds are naturally low in sugar and starch, making them a great choice for horses prone to laminitis, EMS, or Cushing’s (PPID).
💪 Sustained, Cool Energy – Our feeds provide slow-release energy, helping your horse stay focused and perform at their best.
🦷 Better for Teeth – Excess sugar can contribute to dental issues.
Ready to make the change to Pure Feed? Fill out a FREE personalised diet plan, tailored to your horse and their needs. Once complete we will email you the report and a feeding suggestion. It`s as easy as 1,2,3! 🩵
#thepurefeedcompany #molassesfree #purefeed #allyoufeedislove
Did you known the entire Pure Feed range is free from molasses? 💪
Why is this important?
❌ No Sugar Spikes – Molasses is high in sugar, which can cause unwanted energy surges and make some horses fizzy or difficult to manage.
🌿 Ideal for Horses with Metabolic Issues – Our feeds are naturally low in sugar and starch, making them a great choice for horses prone to laminitis, EMS, or Cushing’s (PPID).
💪 Sustained, Cool Energy – Our feeds provide slow-release energy, helping your horse stay focused and perform at their best.
🦷 Better for Teeth – Excess sugar can contribute to dental issues.
Ready to make the change to Pure Feed? Fill out a FREE personalised diet plan, tailored to your horse and their needs. Once complete we will email you the report and a feeding suggestion. It`s as easy as 1,2,3! 🩵
#thepurefeedcompany #molassesfree #purefeed #allyoufeedislove
Laminitis is more than just sore feet-it’s a serious condition affecting the sensitive laminae inside the hoof. But did you know there are different types, each with a unique cause? 👇
🧬 1️⃣ Metabolic Laminitis (Most Common)
🔎 Too much insulin weakens the laminae, increasing damage risk.
Triggered by hormonal imbalances like:
✅ EMS – Often seen in overweight horses with insulin resistance
✅ Cushing’s (PPID) – Common in older horses with a curly coat & muscle loss
🔥 2️⃣ Inflammatory Laminitis
🔎 Too much insulin weakens the laminae, increasing damage risk.
Caused by gut disturbances & illness, such as:
✅ Colic or infections releasing toxins into the bloodstream
✅ Cereal overload, upsetting gut bacteria & triggering inflammation
⏳ 3️⃣ Mechanical Laminitis
🔎 Excess pressure restricts blood flow, weakening the laminae. Occurs when hooves bear too much weight, due to:
✅ Injury, forcing weight onto one limb
✅ Poor hoof balance or hard surfaces
💡 Prevention Starts with Nutrition!
A low sugar, low starch, high fibre diet helps stabilise insulin, reduce inflammation & support gut health. Our laminitis-safe feeds provide balanced nutrition - without cereals or molasses!
📖 Need help? Try our FREE diet plan that you can find on our website!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #laminitis #laminitisawareness
Laminitis is more than just sore feet-it’s a serious condition affecting the sensitive laminae inside the hoof. But did you know there are different types, each with a unique cause? 👇
🧬 1️⃣ Metabolic Laminitis (Most Common)
🔎 Too much insulin weakens the laminae, increasing damage risk.
Triggered by hormonal imbalances like:
✅ EMS – Often seen in overweight horses with insulin resistance
✅ Cushing’s (PPID) – Common in older horses with a curly coat & muscle loss
🔥 2️⃣ Inflammatory Laminitis
🔎 Too much insulin weakens the laminae, increasing damage risk.
Caused by gut disturbances & illness, such as:
✅ Colic or infections releasing toxins into the bloodstream
✅ Cereal overload, upsetting gut bacteria & triggering inflammation
⏳ 3️⃣ Mechanical Laminitis
🔎 Excess pressure restricts blood flow, weakening the laminae. Occurs when hooves bear too much weight, due to:
✅ Injury, forcing weight onto one limb
✅ Poor hoof balance or hard surfaces
💡 Prevention Starts with Nutrition!
A low sugar, low starch, high fibre diet helps stabilise insulin, reduce inflammation & support gut health. Our laminitis-safe feeds provide balanced nutrition - without cereals or molasses!
📖 Need help? Try our FREE diet plan that you can find on our website!
#thepurefeedcompany #purefeed #allyoufeedislove #laminitis #laminitisawareness
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