"...the gut microbiome is studied so much for reasons other than sample abundance. The gut impacts the immune system, brain function, nutrient absorption, and drug metabolism. The stability of the gastrointestinal tract biota can be markedly disrupted by diet, particularly. Sudden ingestion of high starch feeds can lead to an over-proliferation of lactic acid bacteria in the hindgut (thereby reducing overall microbial diversity), which has been linked to colic and laminitis. Some studies suggest that a very high carbohydrate diet leads to some starches overstepping the chemical and mechanical digestion processes of the foregut, which leads to more entering the hindgut where those bacteria produce lactic acid. This lowers the pH, hindering the growth of acid-intolerant beneficial bacteria."

Are you interested in learning more about how the microbiome affects your horses behavior and health? Would you like to know more about how we can be responsible stewards for antibiotic usage? Then you should read my upcoming article in Eclectic Horseman Magazine, and sign up for the online class on April 24th. Everyone welcome!

https://eclectic-horseman.com/mercantile/eclectic-classroom/live-classes/eclectic-classroom-the-equine-microbiome-and-the-use-of-antibiotics-with-siobhan-watkins-ph-d/