Enhancing Nutrition: The Role of Fermented Food, Ingredients and Bioavailability in Horses and Dogs

Your horse and dog might not know about nutrition labels, but their guts sure do! Some fermented foods can be like a VIP pass to better digestion, helping animals absorb more nutrients and stay healthier.  Whether mixed in with feed or put in the form of a “treat”, these microbiota influencing ingredients may help turn ordinary meals into digestive gold.

Introduction to Fermented Foods 

Incorporating fermented foods into the diets of horses and dogs can significantly help their nutritional intake by improving nutrient bioavailability. The fermentation process not only breaks down complex compounds into simpler forms, making it easier for animals to absorb essential nutrients, but can also create new compounds that have tremendous health benefits. For instance, in horses, fermented feeds have been shown to strengthen gut health and bolster the immune system.

Similarly, in dogs, adding fermented ingredients to their diet has been found to enrich antioxidant levels and help to balance gut microbiota. This not only aids digestion but also supports overall health.

By integrating fermented foods into their feeding regimen, we can promote better digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to improved health and vitality in our equine and canine companions.

What is Bioavailability and Why Does It Matter?

Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed and utilized by the body. In simple terms, it determines how much of the ingested nutrient reaches the bloodstream and benefits the animal. High bioavailability ensures that horses and dogs receive optimal nourishment from their diet, supporting overall health and performance.

Why Does Bioavailability Matters?

When it comes to equine and canine nutrition, bioavailability plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of supplements, minerals, and vitamins. If nutrients are poorly absorbed, even high-quality diets may not provide the intended benefits. Factors such as digestive efficiency, gut health, and the presence of natural boosters like fermentation influence bioavailability.

How Fermented Foods Improve Digestive Health? 

Incorporating fermented foods into the diets of horses and dogs can significantly improve their digestive health, leading to improved nutrient absorption and overall well-being. Below are some points which need to be understood relative to documented effects of certain fermented foods & ingredients.

1.  Improving Gut Microbiota

Fermented foods can be rich in beneficial bacteria, such as lactic acid bacteria, which help balance the gut microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption.  They can also help the regulation of the gut-brain axis to augment the Microbiota 

In horses, the inclusion of fermentation metabolites in their feed can help support a robust gastrointestinal microbiome, promoting optimal digestive function.

2. Better Nutrient Absorption

The fermentation process breaks down complex carbohydrates and proteins into simpler compounds, making it easier for the digestive system to absorb essential nutrients. 

This improved bioavailability ensures that horses and dogs receive maximum nutritional benefits from their feed. 

3. Reducing Digestive Disorders

Regular consumption of fermented foods can help prevent common digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. The probiotics present in these foods aid in maintaining intestinal health and function. 

For instance, in horses, oral administration of probiotics has been found to improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of enterocolitis. 

The Impact on Hoof, Coat, and Joint Health

Fermented foods can be a game-changer for horses and dogs, boosting nutrient absorption to strengthen hooves, enhance coat shine, and support joint health. A simple dietary addition can lead to lasting benefits!

• Joint Health

Fermented supplements, such as Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (FWGE), have been shown to promote joint health and mobility in horses. FWGE supports a normal inflammatory response and provides antioxidant benefits, contributing to improved joint function and comfort

• Skin & Coat Condition

The fermentation process boosts the bioavailability of essential vitamins and fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining a shiny and healthy coat. It also supports skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting a balanced gut microbiome.

• Hoof Health

Amino acids, particularly lysine, are vital for strong and healthy hooves. Lysine serves as a building block for protein, contributing to hoof integrity. Fermentation processes can increase the availability of such amino acids in feed, ensuring that horses receive adequate nutrients to maintain robust hoof structure.

Common Fermented Foods for Horses and Dogs 

Here are some common fermented foods suitable for both horses and dogs:

• Kimchi: A spicy Korean dish made from fermented vegetables that can provide probiotics and enzymes beneficial for dogs.

• Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that can be beneficial for dogs' gut health and immune system.

• Fermented Vegetables: A general category that includes various vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and beets, which can be fermented and introduced to dogs in small amounts. 

• Kefir: A fermented dairy product that is usually well-accepted by pets and can be introduced gradually into their diet.

• Beets: Fermented beets can be associated with improved gut health and added fibers. 

Incorporating Fermented Foods into Your Pet’s Diet

Adding fermented foods to your pet’s diet is best for digestion, immunity, and overall health. One of the best ways to do this is by introducing Immunovet supplements—Immunovet EQ for horses and Immunovet K9 for dogs.

These all-natural supplements contain a powerful and proprietary Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (FWGE), backed by over 20 years of research and clinical studies. FWGE has been shown to support GI health, immune function, and metabolic balance, making it an essential addition to any horse feed or dog food.

For horses, Immunovet EQ can be top dressed on feed.  The fermented qualities promote nutrient absorption and gut health. For dogs, Immunovet K9 is available in both powdered and tablet form, giving pet owners the flexibility to add it over food or offer it as a supplement.

By incorporating this well-studied and naturally made fermented food supplement, you can help your pets thrive from inside and out!

Conclusion

Ensuring optimal nutrition for your horses and dogs goes beyond just feeding them the right ingredients—it’s about supporting metabolic function and creating bioavailable goodness for gut health with fermented ingredients. By incorporating the nutrient-rich, fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE), you can improve digestion, boost immunity, and maximize nutrient absorption, leading to healthier, happier animals.

At Immunovet, we provide the best supplements made with the original and powerful Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (FWGE) — created over 20 years ago.  Whether it’s Immunovet EQ for horses or Immunovet K9 for dogs, our products are designed to support GI, immune, and metabolic health naturally.

Visit us today to learn more and shop the best supplements for you!

FAQs

Q: What are fermented foods, and why are they beneficial for my pet? 

Fermented foods have been around for millennia and are naturally prepared.  Sometimes using beneficial bacteria, or yeasts can help promote digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune health in horses and dogs.

Q: How do fermented foods improve bioavailability in animals?

Fermentation breaks down nutrients, making them easier to absorb, ensuring horses and dogs get more vitamins, minerals, and probiotics from their diet.  Some highly beneficial compounds are only created if the ingredients are fermented together.  FWGE has several of these compounds that are not found by fermenting any other known ingredient.

Q: Which fermented foods are safe for horses and dogs?

Fermented hay, silage, and wheat germ extract for horses; fermented veggies, kefir, and yogurt for dogs can support gut health and immunity.

Q: Can fermented foods help with joint health in horses and dogs?

Yes! Fermented foods help with nutrient absorption, delivering anti-inflammatory compounds and probiotics that support joint health and mobility.

Q: How much fermented food should I feed my horse or dog?

Start with small amounts and gradually increase based on your horse or dog’s size and needs. Always consult a veterinarian before making dietary changes.

Q: Are there any risks to feeding fermented foods to my pet?

While beneficial, too much can cause digestive upset. Cause slowly and ensure foods are properly fermented to avoid harmful bacteria.

Q: Can fermented foods replace supplements for my pet’s health?

No, but they complement supplements like Immunovet EQ and Immunovet K9, helping nutrient absorption and overall well-being.