Posted: 31st January 2017 | Back to news feed
TopSpec UlsaKind Cubes are formulated to be highly sympathetic to the equine digestive system, even when it is compromised by extreme acidity.
The formula is very low in starch (UltraLowStarchAnalysis) and sugar and high in fibre but still has a conditioning index of 12MJ/kg making these cubes both ‘Non-Heating’ and conditioning.
TopSpec UlsaKind Cubesare ideal in those circumstances where the internal surface of the stomach has been eroded, because they contain very high levels of β-glucans which form a gel and coat the stomach lining with a protective film. The gel-like stomach contents are less likely to splash the upper squamous epithelium in the stomach.
These β-glucans also slow the rate of passage of feed through the stomach and intestines because of the sticky, gel-like consistency of the feed. In the stomach this means that the periods of time when the stomach is empty and therefore highly acidic, are reduced. It also means that the small intestine has more time to absorb nutrients, reducing the levels of carbohydrate reaching the hindgut and potentially leading to excess lactic acid production.
This effect is augmented by the addition of a source of pectin to the formula. Pectin thickens to a viscous mucus in the acidic conditions of the stomach.
Because the β-glucans in TopSpec UlsaKind cubes bind to sugars in the intestine, their absorption is slowed and the glycaemic index of the feed is lowered.
The TopSpec UlsaKind formula also contains 1% of a marine-derived ingredient with established buffering properties. This calcium and magnesium-rich substance has been scientifically proven to reduce the environmental acidity under in vitro equine stomach conditions for up to six hours.
Omega 3 fatty acids are provided by two sources of linseed and the ratio of Omega 3:6 is higher than in most traditional horsefeeds. Omega 3 fatty acids are less inflammatory than Omega 6 fatty acids.
A little of the Omega 6 source, soya oil, is included in the formula as it has been scientifically proven to aid healthy protection of the gastric mucosa in other species
The highly digestible fibre in these cubes helps to promote the beneficial bacteria in the hindgut therefore further helping to maintain a healthy hindgut environment.
Sodium, calcium and magnesium salts are added to the blend to provide the correct level of these major minerals. The calcium and magnesium sources also have a mild, short-term, buffering effect against stomach acid.
TopSpec UlsaKind Cubes are also highly suitable for any horses or ponies requiring a low-starch/high-fibre diet for other reasons e.g. those prone to, being treated for or recovering from laminitis, those that are ‘fizzy’ on high- starch feeds, those susceptible to muscle dysfunction when on high-starch feeds, those needing support for correct limb development, those intolerant to high-starch feeds for other reasons.
Telephone (01845) 565030 www.topspec.com
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