The Difference Between Prebiotics and Probiotics for Horses
Horses' digestion is a complex process influenced by the balance of various microorganisms in the gut. Prebiotics and probiotics are two important terms often mentioned when it comes to supporting gut health in horses, but what is the real difference between them? Here, we clarify the difference, how they work, and why they are important for maintaining a healthy and well-functioning digestive system in horses.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria or yeast, that are introduced to improve the gut flora. They help maintain a healthy balance in the gut by competing with harmful bacteria and supporting digestion.
Examples of Probiotics:
- Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
- Yeast strains such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Benefits for Horses:
- Improves fiber digestion
- Supports the gut's immune defense
- Helps during stressful situations such as competitions or transport
What are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are dietary fibers or other indigestible substances that serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut. They stimulate the growth and activity of probiotic bacteria.
Examples of Natural Sources of Prebiotics:
- Apple pomace: Rich in pectin, which supports gut health.
- Chicory root (Inulin): Stimulates beneficial microorganisms.
- Flaxseed: Contains mucilage and fibers that have prebiotic effects.
- Carrot residues: Natural fibers that support gut flora.
- High-quality grass and hay: Fiber-rich foundations for the horse's digestion.
- Mannanoligosaccharides (MOS): Extracted from yeast and strengthens gut health.
Benefits for Horses:
- Promotes the growth of the horse's own beneficial bacteria
- Improves nutrient absorption
- Strengthens the gut's barrier function
- Reduces the risk of imbalance
The Difference Between Prebiotics and Probiotics
Probiotics: Introduces live bacteria into the gut.
Prebiotics: Serves as food for the good bacteria already present in the gut.
Synergy: When prebiotics and probiotics are used together (called synbiotics), they can have a double effect by both supporting existing bacteria and introducing new ones.
Prebiotics and Höveler Pur.Mash
Prebiotics are an important part of the horse's diet because they create a stable foundation for gut health. Höveler Pur.Mash is a grain- and molasses-free mash feed developed to support horses' digestion and overall health. It contains prebiotic ingredients like apple pomace and chicory root fiber, which serve as nourishment for the good bacteria in the horse's gut flora.
Pur.Mash helps stabilize the colon's microbiota, which can lead to improved digestion and nutrient absorption. It also contains mucilage substances from flaxseeds and psyllium seeds, which protect the gastrointestinal tract.
By including Pur.Mash in the horse's diet, you can promote a healthy gut environment, which is essential for the horse's well-being and performance.
