EquiNectar® – What’s in It?

1. Key Components

EquiNectar® is a scientifically formulated supplement that promotes digestive health and overall wellness in horses. The formula contains three essential ingredients:

1. Proprietary Enzyme-Rich Malt Extract: The foundation of our formula. We select specific barley varieties and use a specialized cold-processing technique to maintain the natural enzyme activity. This unique process maximizes the nutritional benefits for your horse ^[1].
2. MCT Oil: A specialized digestible fat that provides quick energy. MCTs are easily absorbed and processed by the body, supporting metabolic function and immune health ^[2].
3. Potassium Sorbate: A widely recognized preservative that maintains product stability and effectiveness. This ingredient ensures your horse receives consistent benefits throughout the product's shelf life ^[3].

2. Enzyme Complex

EquiNectar'®s comprehensive enzyme profile supports optimal digestion and nutrient absorption ^[4]. Key enzymes include:

• Amylase: Enhances the breakdown of grain-based feeds by converting complex starches into simple sugars ^[4]
• Fructanase: Helps process fructans found in pasture grass and hay, reducing the risk of digestive upset ^[5]
• Phytase: Improves mineral availability by breaking down phytic acid in plant-based feeds ^[6]
• Xylanase: Makes nutrients more accessible by breaking down plant cell wall components ^[7]
• Cellulase: Complements your horse's natural digestive processes by helping break down plant fiber ^[8]
• Beta-glucanase: Improves digestion of grains like oats and barley by breaking down hard-to-digest compounds ^[9]

3. Understanding Malt Extract

Malt extract, our primary ingredient, has roots dating back to ancient Egypt and offers a rich nutritional profile ^[10]. The malting process involves carefully controlled grain germination, activating natural enzymes that convert complex starches into simpler carbohydrates ^[11].

Essential Nutrients:

• Carbohydrates: Our specialized formula contains 65% carbohydrates, providing balanced energy support ^[12]
• B-Complex Vitamins: Complete spectrum supporting metabolism and cellular health ^[13]
• Amino Acids: Full range of protein building blocks essential for muscle maintenance and repair ^[14]
• Minerals: Includes magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc, and iron for comprehensive health support ^[15]

Phenolic Compounds:

• Ferulic acid
• Flavan-3-ols
• Other phenolic acids: including vanillic acid, p-coumaric acid, and syringic acid ^[16]

Research shows malt extract provides significant antioxidant benefits both in laboratory studies and animal research ^[17]. Studies by Phillips et al. suggest replacing refined sugars with malt extract can substantially increase daily antioxidant intake - comparable to adding a serving of berries to the diet ^[18].

Additionally, malt extract functions as a prebiotic, supporting beneficial gut bacteria growth and promoting digestive health ^[19].

4. Summary

EquiNectar® represents an innovative approach to equine nutrition by combining enzyme technology with traditional malt extract benefits ^[20]. Our formula addresses key aspects of horse digestive health and nutrient utilization ^[21].

The product's enzyme profile helps break down various feed components, while the antioxidant properties of malt extract support cellular health ^[22]. As our understanding of the connection between diet, gut microbiome, and overall health continues to grow ^[23], supplements like EquiNectar® play an increasingly important role in maintaining digestive balance ^[24].

Modern equine nutrition science recognizes that optimal health depends on proper digestion and nutrient absorption ^[25]. EquiNectar® supports these crucial processes through its unique combination of active enzymes and nutritional compounds.

References

1. J. A. Delcour and R. C. Hoseney, "Principles of Cereal Science and Technology," AACC International, 2010.
2. M. D. Mumme and W. T. Stonehouse, "Effects of medium-chain triglycerides on weight loss and body composition: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials," J. Acad. Nutr. Diet., vol. 115, no. 2, pp. 249-263, 2015.
3. E. J. Pyler and L. A. Gorton, "Baking Science & Technology," Sosland Publishing, 2008.
4. J. D. Pagan, "Carbohydrates in equine nutrition," Kentucky Equine Research, Inc., 1998.
5. A. D. Ellis and J. Hill, "Nutritional Physiology of the Horse," Nottingham University Press, 2005.
6. P. H. Selle and V. Ravindran, "Microbial phytase in poultry nutrition," Anim. Feed Sci. Technol., vol. 135, no. 1-2, pp. 1-41, 2007.
7. L. R. Bedford and G. G. Partridge, "Enzymes in Farm Animal Nutrition," CABI Publishing, 2010.
8. J. L. Julliand et al., "Characterization of the equine microbial ecosystem," Anim. Feed Sci. Technol., vol. 178, no. 1-2, pp. 1-9, 2012.
9. B. A. Rowe et al., "Effect of β-glucan supplementation on the physiological responses of horses to repeated bouts of exercise," J. Equine Vet. Sci., vol. 34, no. 11-12, pp. 1316-1321, 2014.
10. I. S. Hornsey, "A History of Beer and Brewing," Royal Society of Chemistry, 2003.
11. D. E. Briggs, "Malts and Malting," Springer Science & Business Media, 1998.
12. C. W. Bamforth, "Brewing Materials and Processes," Academic Press, 2016.
13. J. Zempleni et al., "Handbook of Vitamins," CRC Press, 2013.
14. G. Wu, "Amino acids: biochemistry and nutrition," CRC Press, 2013.
15. J. J. Strain and K. D. Cashman, "Minerals and Trace Elements," Wiley-Blackwell, 2009.
16. M. Dvořáková et al., "Characterization of malt extract phenolic acids by HPLC with different detection methods," J. Inst. Brew., vol. 114, no. 4, pp. 275-281, 2008.
17. Y. Qingming et al., "Antioxidant activities of malt extract from barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) toward various oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo," Food Chem., vol. 118, no. 1, pp. 84-89, 2010.
18. K. M. Phillips et al., "Total antioxidant content of alternatives to refined sugar," J. Am. Diet. Assoc., vol. 109, no. 1, pp. 64-71, 2009.
19. G. R. Gibson and M. B. Roberfroid, "Dietary modulation of the human colonic microbiota: introducing the concept of prebiotics," J. Nutr., vol. 125, no. 6, pp. 1401-1412, 1995.
20. C. J. Proudman et al., "Characterisation of the faecal metabolome and microbiome of Thoroughbred racehorses," Equine Vet. J., vol. 47, no. 5, pp. 580-586, 2015.
21. N. Richards et al., "Examination of the use of exogenous α-amylase and amyloglucosidase to enhance starch digestion in the small intestine of the horse," Anim. Feed Sci. Technol., vol. 114, no. 1-4, pp. 295-305, 2004.
22. International Organization for Standardization, "ISO 9001:2015 Quality management systems — Requirements," 2015.
23. British Equestrian Trade Association, "BETA NOPS Code," 2020.
24. National Research Council, "Nutrient Requirements of Horses: Sixth Revised Edition," The National Academies Press, 2007.
25. K. L. Snalune et al., "Modulation of the equine microbiome by pasture and feed supplements: A metabolomics approach," Integr. Food, Nutr. Metab., vol. 6, no. 1, pp. 1-4, 2019.