Chemicals and the Risks for Ulcers

What are the potential link between glyphosate exposure and gastric ulcers in horses, though the scientific world still refutes the evidence.Glyphosate Detection in HorsesA study found that glyphosate was detected in the duodenal fluid and blood samples of all horses examined (n=92). The concentrations were significantly higher in the duodenal fluid compared to blood samples. Notably:- Horses with squamous gastric disease (grade 3-4) had significantly higher glyphosate concentrations in duodenalfluid compared to horses with normal squamous mucosa.- Horses with severe glandular gastric disease also showed higher glyphosate concentrations in duodenal fluid.

Based on the search results, glyphosate appears to have several potential negative impacts on the gut health of horses:1. Disruption of gut microbiome:Glyphosate can disrupt the shikimate pathway in gut bacteria, which plays important roles in:- Detoxifying xenobiotics- Vitamin synthesis- Immune system homeostasis- Aiding digestion- Modulating gut membrane permeabilityThis disruption can lead to gut dysbiosis and associated conditions like inflammatory bowel disorders.

2. Increased intestinal permeability:Glyphosate may damage the tight junctions between intestinal cells, leading to "leaky gut" and allowing substancesto pass through the intestinal lining that normally would not. This can trigger immune responses and inflammation.

3. Potential link to digestive issues:Horses exposed to glyphosate may exhibit behaviors associated with gut dysbiosis, such as:- "Girthiness"- Cribbing or wind sucking- Poor performance- Lameness or gait anomalies

4. Seasonal and environmental factors:The study found higher glyphosate concentrations in horses' duodenal fluid in autumn compared to spring, and in horses kept near cities versus rural areas.

5. Chronic inflammation:The disruption of the gut microbiome and increased intestinal permeability can lead to chronic inflammation,  which may contribute to various health issues in horses.

Given the complex interactions between glyphosate, gut bacteria, and overall equine health, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term impacts on horses' digestive systems. However, the current evidence suggests that glyphosate exposure may negatively affect equine gut health through multiple mechanisms.

Exposure SourcesHorses may be exposed to glyphosate through:- Contaminated feed ingredients like soy, wheat, oats, corn, sugar beets, and alfalfa.- Spraying of pastures, hay fields, and nearby crop fields.- Contaminated water sources.

To potentially reduce glyphosate exposure and support digestive health:- Use organic or non-GMO feed ingredients when possible.- Maximize pasture turnout and grazing time while limiting exposure to sprayed areas.- Provide constant access to forages and non-GMO Alfalfa.- Limit grain meals and high-sugar/starch feeds.- Consider supplements to support gut health such as our Total Guard, GI Equilizer and/or Ultra Guard.While more research is needed to fully understand the potential impacts of glyphosate on equine health, taking stepsto minimize exposure and support overall digestive health may be prudent.