Understanding Equine Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers in horses are more common than many realize and can significantly affect their performance and comfort. Equine gastric ulcers typically manifest in two forms: equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD) and equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD). While ESGD affects the upper portion of a horse’s stomach, EGGD occurs in the lower, glandular region. Understanding the differences between these conditions is vital, as they require different management strategies.

The Challenges of Equine Glandular Gastric Disease (EGGD)

EGGD poses unique challenges due to its location in the stomach. Unlike ESGD, EGGD is often influenced by factors such as exercise intensity, continuous stress, and management practices, making it trickier to treat with conventional medications that are typically effective for ESGD. As a result, there is a pressing need for more comprehensive and long-lasting solutions.

Introducing PROTEK GI

Enter **PROTEK GI**, a revolutionary supplement designed to tackle chronic equine gastric ulcers head-on, particularly EGGD. Developed alongside prominent equine digestive health expert Dr. Ben Sykes, PROTEK GI takes a holistic approach by addressing both foregut and hindgut health. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect is its combination of antacids and protective agents—pectin, lecithin, and sodium bicarbonate—that form an alkaline slime barrier. This barrier is crucial in protecting the sensitive stomach lining from acid burn while enhancing mucosal defenses, providing significant relief, especially in the glandular region.

Dual Benefits for Foregut and Hindgut Health

PROTEK GI is designed not only to protect the stomach but also to promote overall digestive health. It includes Levucell SC® yeast probiotic and Agrimos® yeast prebiotic that stabilizes hindgut pH levels, aiding in the reduction of lactic acid buildup and bolstering the growth of beneficial bacteria. This dual-action not only mitigates recurrent ulcers but fosters a healthier digestive tract, enhancing appetite, weight, coat condition, demeanor, and overall performance.

Scientific Backing and Real-World Impact

Recent studies, such as those spearheaded by Shan et al. in 2023, highlight the effectiveness of PROTEK GI. The research demonstrates a marked decrease in ulcer recurrence when horses transition from omeprazole treatment to PROTEK GI supplements. This indicates that PROTEK GI is not just a temporary solution but offers significant long-term benefits for horses dealing with chronic EGGD. Notably, the improvements noted among horses include appetite enhancement, weight stabilization, and improved coat and demeanor. Dr. Ben Sykes, a staunch advocate of a holistic approach to managing equine gastric ulcers, underscores the importance of balanced training, managing stress effectively, and a robust nutritional strategy. According to Dr. Sykes, supplementing PROTEK GI can accelerate recovery while maintaining the horse’s best health over time. As he succinctly puts it, “we use PROTEK GI for the long-term management of EGUS” since it brings substantial value to any management regimen.

Strategies for Managing Equine Gastric Ulcers

Successful management of chronic equine gastric ulcers goes beyond mere medication. It demands a well-rounded approach, focusing on alleviating both immediate symptoms and understanding underlying triggers of the condition. By integrating advanced supplements like PROTEK GI into one’s strategy, horse owners can effectively optimize their horse’s digestive health, ensuring that their animals remain healthy, comfortable, and at the peak of their performance. The holistic management of stress, diet adjustments, and introducing innovative supplements form the cornerstone of modern ulcer management strategies.

The Road Ahead

The future of managing equine gastric ulcers is undoubtedly moving towards more holistic approaches. Scientific research and advancements in digestive health supplements, such as PROTEK GI, will be pivotal in shaping the prevention and treatment paradigms. For those committed to ensuring their horses exhibit a consistently high standard of health and happiness, embracing these advanced solutions is crucial. As the industry evolves, the importance of a comprehensive and multifaceted approach, underlined by initiatives like PROTEK GI, will continue to expand, offering promise of a future where equine gastric ulcers become significantly more manageable. For further insights, both horse owners and professionals can reference the article from TheHorse.com, under the title "PROTEK GI: A Smarter Way to Manage Chronic Equine Gastric Ulcers." This resource provides a thorough exploration of these management strategies and their relevance in equine health. Citations: - [TheHorse.com](https://thehorse.com/) - [Kelato Animal Health](https://kelato.us/products/protek-gi)