FEED ADVICE – DISCIPLINES
Feeding Show Jumping Horses: The Ultimate Guide
Feeding show jumping horses is a precise task that requires balancing energy, muscle support, and recovery. Show jumping is a highly demanding sport that requires bursts of power, speed, and agility. Horses must have the energy to clear high fences, the strength to push off from the ground, and the stamina to perform across multiple rounds in competitions. In this guide, we will explore the best practices for feeding show jumping horses, ensuring they have the fuel they need to excel in this physically demanding discipline.
What is Show Jumping?
Show jumping is an equestrian sport where horse and rider navigate a course of fences, aiming to complete the round with as few faults as possible.
The sport requires not only precision and agility but also significant strength and power.
Horses must be able to accelerate quickly, jump high, and maintain their focus over multiple rounds.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting a horse’s ability to perform at this level, providing the necessary energy, muscle strength, and recovery support.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Show Jumping Horses
Show jumping horses have distinct nutritional requirements due to the physical demands of the sport. Their diet must provide:
Quick-Release Energy:
Show jumping horses need bursts of power for jumping, requiring quick-release energy sources that don’t lead to excess excitability.
Muscle Development and Recovery:
High-quality protein is essential for maintaining muscle tone, strength, and recovery after intense exercise.
Joint and Bone Health:
The physical impact of jumping places strain on a horse’s joints and bones, requiring nutrients that support long-term joint health and bone strength.
Hydration and Electrolyte Balance:
Proper hydration and replenishment of electrolytes are vital, especially during competition days when horses may sweat excessively.
Metabolic Requirements of Show Jumping Horses
Show jumping horses have elevated metabolic needs, particularly in terms of energy for short, intense bursts of exercise. Their diet should include:
Carbohydrates: Provide quick-release energy for fast acceleration and power. Careful management of carbohydrate intake is crucial to avoid over-excitement or metabolic disorders.
Fats: Offer slow-release energy, helping to maintain stamina and calmness over multiple rounds of jumping.
Proteins: Crucial for muscle development, recovery, and repair after strenuous jumping sessions.
Key Components of a Show Jumping Horse’s Diet
Forage:
High-Quality Hay: Forage should form the foundation of the diet, providing slow-release energy and supporting digestive health. Timothy and meadow hay are excellent choices for their balance of fibre and nutrients.
Grass: the foundation of a horse’s diet, providing essential fibre for digestive health. It supplies energy, protein, and key vitamins and minerals, supporting overall well-being. However, the quality and quantity of grass vary throughout the year, so balancing the diet with additional fibre and nutrients is often necessary.
Concentrates:
Performance Feeds: Specialised performance feeds for show jumpers are designed to provide a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, supporting both energy and muscle needs.
Balancers: A balancer can help ensure that all essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are provided without adding unnecessary calories, particularly for horses prone to weight gain.
Key Components of a Show Jumping Horse’s Diet
Energy Sources
Carbohydrates: Grains such as oats or barley can provide the quick-release energy needed for power, but should be fed in controlled amounts to prevent over-excitability.
Fats: Linseed and rapeseed oil are excellent for providing slow-release energy, supporting stamina without causing spikes in energy levels.
Fibre: High-fibre feeds like unmolassed sugarbeet offer slow-release energy and are easy on the digestive system, helping to maintain even energy levels during competitions.
Protein Sources:
Grass Pellets & Grass Chaff – Provide highly digestible protein to support muscle maintenance and overall condition.
Unmolassed Sugar Beet – Primarily a fibre source but contains some protein to contribute to overall dietary intake.
Rapeseed Oil – A valuable plant-based protein source that supports muscle tone and strength.
Linseed: Offers a balance of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting muscle health and promoting a healthy coat.
Key Components of a Show Jumping Horse’s Diet
Supplements:
Joint Support: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are key supplements for supporting joint health, helping to protect against the wear and tear that comes from repeated jumping.
Electrolytes: Especially important during competition season, electrolytes help replenish salts lost through sweat, maintaining hydration and preventing muscle cramps. If you’re looking at improving your horse’s recovery even faster, check out Pure Refuel – aiding electrolyte, muscle and hydration recovery.
Digestive Aids: Probiotics and prebiotics can help maintain gut health, which is particularly important when travelling to shows and during periods of stress.
Hydration:
Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Hydration is especially important before and after jumping rounds, particularly during warm weather or intense competition days.
Feeding Tips for Show Jumping Horses
Energy Management: Provide a balance of quick-release carbohydrates for power and slow-release energy from fats and fibre to maintain stamina without causing excess excitability.
Consistency is Key: Feed your horse at the same times each day to maintain a consistent digestive routine, helping to reduce stress and maintain overall health.
Monitor Body Condition: Regularly assess your horse’s body condition score (BCS) and adjust their diet accordingly to ensure they remain in optimal shape for competition.
Recovery Nutrition: After intense jumping sessions, ensure your horse receives adequate protein and carbohydrates to aid in muscle recovery and replenish energy stores.
Tailoring the Diet to Different Stages of Show Jumping
The demands of show jumping can vary between training and competition days, and the diet should be tailored to reflect these changes:
Before Competitions: Focus on providing a diet rich in quick-release energy to support the bursts of power needed for jumping. Ensure hydration levels are maintained, and offer light meals before competitions to avoid digestive upsets.
During Competitions: Offer small amounts of easily digestible feeds, such as soaked hay or high-fibre feeds, between rounds to maintain energy levels and encourage hydration. Electrolyte supplementation is important to prevent imbalances.
After Competitions: Prioritise recovery by offering feeds that are rich in protein and moderate in carbohydrates to aid muscle repair and restore energy reserves. Continue to provide fresh water and electrolytes to support rehydration.
Conclusion
Feeding a show jumping horse requires a careful balance of energy, muscle support, and recovery. A diet that includes high-quality forage, balanced concentrates, and targeted supplements will help ensure your horse performs at their best, both in training and competition. Tailoring the diet to the specific needs of each horse, as well as the demands of the sport, will provide the energy and support necessary for success.
Hear from Brand Ambassador– Amy Inglis’s Approach to Showjumping Nutrition
Amy Inglis is an international showjumper, competing at the highest level up to 5* with her team of horses, which includes both her own and those of her owners. Amy’s dedication to excellence in the ring is fueled by the Pure Feed range!
At Amy’s yard, the horses are fed a tailored diet based on their energy needs and stage of development. For her seasoned competitors, Amy uses Pure Working to provide the balanced nutrition and energy required for high-performance demands. Her younger horses and those needing extra condition are fed Pure Condition Mix, ensuring they maintain muscle and strength as they grow and develop. For the yard’s youngstock and broodmares, Pure Stud is the feed of choice, supplying the essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. ome of Amy’s horses are naturally fiery, requiring a feed that delivers energy without causing them to become overly excitable. This is where Pure Feed’s low-sugar, low-starch approach is perfect, offering controlled energy to enhance performance without making the horses too fizzy.
Amy’s thoughtful approach to feeding, using a combination of Pure Feed products, helps her horses thrive, whether they are competing internationally or developing at home. It’s this balance that supports their success in the demanding world of showjumping.
What we recommend for Show Jumping Horses
Made in the UK
We are proud to say that all of our feeds are produced here in the UK
FREE Shipping
We offer FREE SHIPPING for all orders in the UK with 15 bags and over*
Sustainable
We are dedicated to playing our part in making the world more sustainable
100% Natural
We use high-quality ingredients and no unnecessary additives.
FAQs
Thousands of people love our feeds
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
What people say about Pure Feed
