FEED ADVICE – DISCIPLINES
Feeding Polo Horses: The Ultimate Guide
Feeding polo horses requires a precise balance of energy, stamina, and recovery support. Polo is an intense and fast-paced equestrian sport, where horses need to perform repeated sprints, sharp turns, and sudden stops over several chukkas (periods), often in hot weather. Their performance depends heavily on proper nutrition, which fuels explosive speed, sustained energy, and rapid recovery between chukkas. In this guide, we will explore the best practices for feeding polo horses to help them stay at the top of their game.
What is Polo?
Polo is a fast-paced team sport on horseback that demands speed, agility, and quick recovery across multiple short, high-intensity chukkas.
Horses need a balance of quick-release and slow-release energy to perform at their best throughout the game.
Electrolytes and quality protein help replace losses from sweating and aid muscle repair between chukkas.
A complete, fibre-based diet with added vitamins and minerals supports condition, performance, and overall wellbeing.
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Polo Horses
Polo horses have unique nutritional requirements driven by the high-intensity nature of the sport. Their diet must provide:
Quick-Release Energy
Polo horses need bursts of speed for sprints, requiring easily accessible energy from carbohydrates.
Muscle Development and Recovery:
High-quality protein is essential for muscle maintenance, repair, and recovery between and after games.
Sustained Energy and Stamina:
The ability to maintain performance over multiple chukkas demands slow-release energy from fats and fibre.
Hydration and Electrolyte Balance:
Given the fast pace and physical exertion, particularly in hot conditions, maintaining hydration and replenishing lost electrolytes is critical.
Metabolic Requirements of Polo Horses
Polo horses face high metabolic demands, as they are required to perform repeated short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods. To meet these demands, their diet should include:
Carbohydrates: For quick-release energy to fuel sprints and bursts of speed.
Fats: For slow-release energy, which supports sustained performance over several chukkas without causing excitability.
Proteins: For muscle repair and recovery, helping horses to maintain peak condition over multiple matches.
Key Components of a Polo Horse’s Diet
Forage
High-Quality Hay: Forage should form the bulk of the diet, providing slow-release energy and supporting digestive health. Timothy, meadow hay, or alfalfa can be excellent choices for polo ponies, offering a good balance of fibre and nutrients.
Grass: Access to fresh grass is ideal, but it should be balanced with supplementary feeding to ensure consistent nutrient intake, especially during competition seasons.
Hard feed
Performance Feeds: Polo horses benefit from feeds specifically designed for intense work. Performance feeds typically provide a mix of quick-release carbohydrates and slow-release fats to ensure energy is sustained throughout the match without causing spikes in energy or excitability.
Balancers: A feed balancer ensures that essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids are supplied without adding excessive calories. This is crucial for maintaining muscle health and overall vitality – Did you know the Pure Feed complete range all include balancers so no need to add one!
Key Components of a Polo Horse’s Diet
Energy Sources
Carbohydrates: cereals like oats, barley, and corn provide the fast-release energy necessary for the explosive bursts of speed required during chukkas. However, these should be fed in moderation to avoid over-excitability.
Fats: Vegetable oils, such as linseed or soya oil, are excellent for providing slow-release energy. Fats help sustain energy over multiple chukkas without increasing the risk of sugar spikes or excitability.
Fibre: High-fibre feeds such as beet pulp or alfalfa are ideal for providing sustained energy while promoting digestive health and maintaining even energy levels.
Protein Sources
Alfalfa: A high-protein forage, alfalfa supports muscle health and endurance, helping the horse recover quickly after exertion.
Soybean Meal: Rich in essential amino acids, soybean meal helps maintain muscle mass and repair tissue after the physical demands of a polo match.
Linseed: Contains both protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting muscle recovery and promoting a healthy coat – Did you know all of the Pure Feed complete range already contain linseed?
Key Components of a Polo Horse’s Diet
Supplements
Electrolytes: Essential for replacing salts lost through sweat during matches. Electrolytes should be supplemented before, during, and after games to ensure the horse remains hydrated and avoids fatigue or muscle cramps. Did you know normal electrolytes can be corrosive on the digestive system and often contain hidden sugar? Check out Pure ReFuel for the low sugar and starch, digestive friendly recovery mash!
Joint Supplements: Supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM can help support joint health, reducing wear and tear from the physical demands of the sport.
Digestive Aids: Probiotics and prebiotics support a healthy digestive system, particularly important when travelling to competitions or during periods of stress.
Hydration
Fresh Water: Polo horses sweat heavily during games, so constant access to fresh, clean water is essential, especially during training and matches. Hydration is vital for maintaining performance and preventing heat exhaustion.
Feeding Tips for Polo Horses
Energy for Performance: Provide a balance of quick-release carbohydrates for speed and slow-release energy from fats and fibre to maintain stamina over multiple chukkas.
Pre-Game Feeding: Avoid large meals just before games to prevent digestive upset. Light meals, rich in fibre and low in starch, are ideal before matches to ensure sustained energy without making the horse sluggish.
Post-Game Recovery: After matches, focus on rehydration and muscle recovery. Offer easily digestible feeds with moderate carbohydrates and high protein content to support muscle repair and replenish energy stores.
Conclusion
Feeding polo horses is all about balancing quick-release energy for power with slow-release energy for sustained performance, while also supporting muscle recovery and joint health. A diet based on high-quality forage, balanced concentrates, and targeted supplements will help ensure your horse performs at its best, both in training and during matches. Tailoring the diet to the unique demands of polo—where speed, stamina, and rapid recovery are key—will help your horse stay at peak performance throughout the season.
Hear from the Expert – Sarah Hughes’s Approach to Polo Nutrition
Sarah Hughes is a seasoned polo player with over 19 years of experience, competing in mixed and ladies’ tournaments across the globe, from 0 to 18 goal. She has represented England in international matches, including at Guards Polo Club and in India, the birthplace of polo, where she played on traditional Manipuri ponies. As an elite polo player, Sarah understands the demands this intense sport places on her horses, and why their nutrition is so important.
Polo ponies, often retrained ex-racehorses, are asked to perform at high intensity—galloping at full speed, shutting down quickly, turning sharply, and accelerating again, all while managing the rigours of close-contact play. This high level of performance requires the right fuel, which is why Sarah trusts Pure Feed to keep her ponies in top condition.
Pure Feed’s low-sugar, low-starch formulas, high in oil and fibre, provide the slow-release energy her ponies need to maintain peak performance throughout the chukka without becoming too excitable. This balanced approach ensures that the ponies remain focused and steady, even in the heat of competition. The feed’s inclusion of a balancer also covers all their vitamin and mineral needs, promoting fitness, condition, and overall health.
To support recovery, Sarah uses Pure ReFuel after matches. Packed with electrolytes to replace those lost through sweat and limiting amino acids to aid muscle recovery, it helps her ponies bounce back quickly, ensuring they’re ready for the next game.
With the help of Pure Feed, Sarah ensures her ponies are fit, focused, and fully prepared for the demands of top-level polo, both in the UK and around the world.
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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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