The ultimate equine digestive supplement. Optimize hindgut health, increase nutrient absorption and enhance immunity with natural probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes and nucleotides. In uber palatable pellets.
We stand behind our products to provide the best nutrition for your horse. No fillers, just research-backed ingredients. If your horse doesn't love this product, our Customer Happiness team is here to help or give you a refund guaranteed.
Even the best nutrition programs will fail without maintaining gut health.
That’s why we developed Optimum Digestive Health Pellets – to restore balance to the gastrointestinal tract, improve feed efficiency, support energy metabolism and boost nutrient assimilation.
Mad Barn’s Optimum Digestive Health gives you total GI tract coverage that works in five key ways:
Stabilizing the gut flora, reducing the risk of dysfunction and colic
Providing intestinal enzymes that improve the digestibility of feed
Stimulating hindgut development to support the fermentation of fiber
Contains toxin binders that remove harmful substances before they can be absorbed
Source of natural immune modulators
Tired of powdered supplements that get left behind? Mad Barn’s Optimum Digestive Health is an uber palatable, pelleted equine digestive supplement that contains a unique combination of probiotics, prebiotics, yeast, enzymes and a proprietary blend of nucleotides.
This is the most comprehensive solution on the market to address optimal hindgut health. Best of all, these ingredients are 100% natural and come from renewable resources.
Why Use Optimum Digestive Health?
Does your horse exhibit any of these signs of poor digestive function?
Loose manure/diarrhea
Poor topline
Lack of muscle
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Constipation
Poor quality coat
If so, your horse may benefit from Optimum Digestive Health. Our all-in-one dietary supplement provides everything you need to get your horse’s digestive system back on tract. There is no shortage of pre- and probiotics on the market for your horse. But there hasn’t ever been a formulation like this.
Optimum Digestive Health is the ultimate solution for hindgut support, immune function and nutrient utilization. Give your horse total GI tract coverage with a powerful complex of probiotics, prebiotics, yeast, enzymes and more.
How Optimum Digestive Health Works
Optimizes the Microbiome
The digestive tract of a healthy horse is inhabited by trillions of beneficial bacteria. These microorganisms assist with a number of vital functions in the horse’s body, such as nutrient assimilation, hindgut fermentation and vitamin synthesis, just to name a few.
Optimum Digestive Health replenishes the equine microflora with the addition of probiotics and provides nourishment with select prebiotic substrates. When combined, these substances optimize gut microbiome and reduce the risk of digestive dysfunction and colic.
Optimum Digestive Health is more than just food – it’s a natural growth promoter that works with your horse. A proprietary blend of nucleotides stimulates maximal growth of the beneficial bacteria already inhabiting your horse’s digestive system.
Enhances Digestibility
By optimizing the microbial environment, your horse can better digest feeds and liberate more nutrients that go toward muscle growth, athletic performance and immunity. The addition of digestive enzymes in the equine diet can also assist in the absorption of nutrients in the correct location, reducing excess starch or protein from reaching the hindgut.
The wide range of digestive enzymes in Optimum Digestive Health:
Boost feed efficiency by accelerating the breakdown of nutrients in forage and concentrates.
Prevent digestive upset by limiting the passage of starch and protein into the hindgut.
Combats Toxins
The presence of molds and fungus are a reality for all feeds. These organisms can produce compounds that are very toxic to the horse and its digestive health. Impeding these toxins and removing them before they can be absorbed or negatively impact the microflora or the horse is imperative for optimal health.
Optimum Digestive Health contains a natural prebiotic substance that binds onto harmful toxins and harmlessly clears them out of the digestive system.
Scientifically Proven Benefits
Optimum Digestive Health has been scientifically studied and shown to improve gut health, immune function and feed digestibility. Very few digestive support supplements have been studied in horses. Go with a product that has research to back up its results.
Hindgut Health
Effects on Hindgut Bacteria Population:
In one research trial, feeding ODH was demonstrated to significantly increase the population of beneficial lactic acid utilizing bacteria in the hindgut, while reducing harmful bacterial from the Streptococci Sp genus.
By bringing the hindgut microbiome into a more favourable balance, ODH can support digestion and immune function.
Feed Efficiency
Effects on Fibrolytic Activity:
Study results also showed that the horses fed ODH experienced a higher rate of fibrolytic activity compared to a control. Fibrolytic activity refers to the bacteria and enzymes that break down fibers found in foods to obtain energy.
By increasing the digestibility of fibre in the diet, ODH can support nutrient uptake, energy metabolism, weight gain and animal comfort.
Immune Function
Effects on Immunoglobulin Levels:
ODH has also been shown to boost immunity as assessed by the concentration of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) present. Immunoglobulins are the proteins that contain antibodies that fight disease-causing agents such as viruses and bacteria.
Compared to a control, ODH significantly increased the levels of these immunoglobulins found in colostrum of breeding mares, helping to kick-start the immune system in the young foal.
You should always consult a qualified nutritionist before altering your feed program. Submit your horse’s diet for analysis online and one of our equine nutritionists will be happy to provide a complementary review.
Allzyme® SSF is an enzyme complex supplement created by Alltech. It is produced using a technology called solid-state fermentation, which uses a fungus called Aspergillus niger to produce a combination of enzymes. Enzymes work directly in the gastrointestinal tract to help break down feed components. Allzyme® SSF, in particular, helps release greater amounts of sugar, starches, protein and fibre from feeds.
Digestibility studies involving different livestock species have proven Allzyme® SSF’s ability to increase feed efficiency to maximize feed potential.
In horses, supplemental enzymes may be an effective way to maximize nutrient release from feeds, reducing feed costs and increasing performance. In studies using horses, enzyme-supplemented diets increased the digestibility of all nutrients, especially fibre, and also improved fecal gas production. Allzyme® SSF has the potential to be especially beneficial for horses that have trouble holding weight, are prone to having digestive upsets, or lactating mares that need extra nutrients to support milk production.
Bio-Mos™ from Alltech™ is a proprietary ingredient made from a specific strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. This supplement is designed to supply the gastrointestinal tract with beneficial microorganisms that promote athletic performance and feed efficiency.
Bio-Mos™ has been clinically studied in 734 research trials and its efficacy is supported by 114 peer-reviewed publications. It has been used for over 20 years to promote gastrointestinal health and integrity in a variety of agricultural animals, including horses.
According to Alltech™, Bio-Mos™ works by reinforcing the normal function of the digestive system and stimulates the body’s natural defenses. It helps to normalize the gut microflora, supporting a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria and contributing to the development of the immune system.
Copper is a micromineral that is required by the horse for proper nervous system function, antioxidant defense, cardiac function, bone development, cellular respiration, keratinization, tissue pigmentation and the formation of connective tissue. It is a catalytic co-factor for many important enzymes, meaning that it is required for these enzyme’s activity as a catalyst.
If copper levels are not adequate in the horse’s diet, it can lead to pigmentation abnormalities, sensitive skin, sluggishness, bone demineralization, osteoporosis, arthritis, liver problems, digestive problems, anemia, neutropenia, or leukopenia. Deficiency may be common in certain geographic regions where soil content is naturally low in copper.
Absorption of this mineral from the gastrointestinal tract is between 5 to 10% in adults and may be reduced during times of disease or if the horse is consuming a diet high in phytates or competing minerals. To increase levels, a highly bioavailable form of this mineral like Bioplex Copper (copper proteinate) is recommended.
Dietary Escape Microbial Protein (EMP™) from Alltech is a type of protein supplement that isn’t broken down in the gut by microbes. According to Alltech, EMP is “A revolutionary microbial protein technology designed to provide a unique, high-quality protein source that delivers the complete array of essential amino acids to the [animal].”
Amino acids are the building blocks from which proteins are synthesized in the body. There are 20 standard amino acids required by all mammals to form proteins and other biomolecules.
Nine of these amino acids are essential, meaning they cannot be made by the body and must come from food or supplement sources. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
Integral®A+ is a feed additive developed by Alltech that works as a prebiotic. It is composed of hydrolyzed yeast, beta-glucans, mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) and green algae.
Prebiotics are non-digestible oligosaccharides from the cell walls of lysed yeast, which act as a food source and stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract. They thereby enhance digestibility, maintain proper gut pH levels and assist with hind-gut fermentation. Prebiotics are also capable of binding with strains of harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Campylobacter and Salmonella, and helping to flush them out of the intestinal tract.
Integral®A+ has proven efficacy in over 55 peer-reviewed in-vivo livestock, companion animal and aquaculture trials. In horses, the inclusion of this additive results in enhanced gut health, immunity and performance.
Kelp meal (seaweed) is a type of brown algae that is rich in a number of chelated minerals required by the horse. It contains meaningful quantities of magnesium, potassium, iodine, calcium and iron. It is also a source of several vitamins, micro-nutrients and 20 different amino acids.
As an equine supplement, kelp is commonly fed to increase iodine levels and support normal production of thyroid hormones. It is also recommended for hoof health, skin and coat health, fertility, metabolism, anti-inflammatory properties, stamina and growth.
Dried seaweed meal also contains high levels of polysaccharides, which are a type of starch with prebiotic effects. This prebiotic fibre can stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote balance of the microbiota.
Magnesium is a macro-mineral that plays an important role in regulating nerve impulse transmission, protein synthesis, energy metabolism and enzyme activity. It is involved in over 300 different enzyme reactions in the horse’s body.
60% of the magnesium in the body is found in the bones and 40% is found in extracellular fluids and soft tissues. If a horse is deficient in magnesium, it can lead to abnormal behaviour and mood problems, jumpiness, excitability, growth failure, muscle weakness, intermittent muscle spasms (tetany), sensitive skin and back pain. It may also be involved in equine metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance in horses.
As a supplement, it is best given in the form of inorganic magnesium oxide which has an absorption rate of approximately 50% and does not cause the same gastrointestinal side effects as magnesium sulfate (epsom salt).
Mad Barn’s 5-strain probiotic supplement contains a synergistic blend of 5 different bacterial colonies that support gut health, digestion and immune function in your horse. Probiotics are the beneficial bacterial that colonize the intestines and inhibit the growth of pathogens that can cause disease.
Our MB-5 Strain Probiotic contains 20 billion CFU (Colony Forming Units) per gram of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum and Enterococcus faecium. Find out more about our probiotic blend here.
This supplement can be used to help balance the gut microflora after the microbiome has been disrupted by use of NSAID’s, antibiotics and/or wormers. It can also be used if your horse has had digestive upsets or appears unthrift.
Oat bran is made from the outer layer of the oat grain, just beneath the inedible husk and is used as a very palatable pellet binder and source of soluble fiber. Oat bran is low in starch and contains a high concentration of beta-glucan, which is a form of soluble fiber that has many benefits for horses.
Beta-glucan has beneficial prebiotic qualities in the hindgut where it helps nourish beneficial bacteria, promoting a healthy immune system.
Oat bran also creates a gel-like substance when mixed with water, which reduces the rate at which simple sugars move through the intestines. This substance thereby enhances the digestion and absorption of these sugars so that they are less likely to reach the hindgut. This process also slows down the release of sugars into the bloodstream, providing a more regulated release of glucose.
Peppermint has been used as a digestive tonic for hundreds of years. The plant extract contains small amounts of volatile oils like menthol which can help to relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, support peristalsis and reduce symptoms of digestive upset.
The supplement can have a calming, soothing effect on a horse’s stomach which is why it is commonly given to horses suffering from gastric or duodenal ulcers, gas, digestive cramping, lack of appetite or colic.
Peppermint is also a safe, natural flavour that improves the palatability of Visceral+ and that most horses love. It can stimulate the appetite and may support healthy bowel movements. When given in low doses, it does not cause adverse reactions.
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient that is an important component of cell membranes (Phoshoplipids), bone structure and reactions requiring cellular energy (ATP/Adenosine TriPhosphate). Phosphorus also helps form the backbone of DNA and contributes to pH and electrolyte balance in bodily fluids.
Dietary Phosphorus can be obtained from many different feeds, including forages, oats and soybean meal. Feeds with particularly high Phosphorus concentrations include wheat bran and rice bran.
The Phosphorus found naturally in grains and forages is considered organic, and is often bound inside molecules called Phytates. Feed manufacturers, however, often add inorganic Phosphorus, which comes from mining and processing phosphate from rocks, into commercial horse feeds. Inorganic Phosphorus sources are often listed on feed labels as monosodium phosphate; mono-, di-, and tri-calcium phosphate; and defluorinated phosphate.
Inorganic Phosphorus is a non-renewable resource, as it is mined from the earth. It is well known that inorganic Phosphorus is released from animal waste into the environment at high levels and can cause environmental harm. Today, research is focused on striking a balance between feeding enough Phosphorus for optimal horse health and production (growth, lactation, reproduction, performance, etc.) without overfeeding it, thus reducing the environmental footprint of feeding horses. It has also been concluded that both growing and mature horses can effectively utilize the majority of Phosphorus bound in plant Phytate and might not need inorganic Phosphorus added to their feed to meet their Phosphorus requirements.
Potassium is an essential macro mineral that functions as an electrolyte in the horse’s body. It is the most important intracellular cation, is essential for maintaining the contractility of smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscle, and also plays a role in regulating pH balance.
Horses fed a diet with adequate forage typically do not need to supplement with additional potassium as forage typically contains high amounts of this mineral. Diets that contain mostly grain may not supply adequate amounts.
A deficiency in this electrolyte can develop under conditions of profuse sweating, in endurance horses, in horses using diuretics like Lasix (furosemide) or in horses experiencing diarrhea. Low levels of potassium can lead to reduced appetite, decreased water intake, muscle weakness, mental apathy, cardiac arrhythmias, adrenal hypertrophy and a decreased growth rate.
Sodium is a macro mineral that is the most recognizable electrolyte in the horse’s body. It plays a role in nerve impulse transmission, regulation of muscle contractions, maintenance of blood pressure, skeletal integrity, blood volume regulation and thirst regulation.
The daily sodium requirement for a 500 kg (1,100 lb) horse is approximately 10 grams. Higher intake is required in hot climates or for horses undergoing heavy physical exercise which lose greater amounts of electrolytes through sweat. Horses naturally seek out salt when levels of this mineral fall too low. They should be provided with free choice loose salt to ensure electrolyte balance is maintained.
If a horse does not get adequate amounts of sodium to replace that which is lost through sweat and urine, the thirst response will be diminished. This is why horses will sometimes avoid drinking water even on a hot day when they are sweating. Additional signs of deficiency can include abnormal licking of soil or other objects, anorexia, lethargy, unsteady gait or loss of skin vitality.
Yea-Sacc 1026® is a yeast culture developed by Alltech that is based on Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain 1026. This strain of yeast was specifically selected for its influence on digestibility in animals. Many years of research in multiple animal species have clarified Yea-Sacc 1026® ‘s efficacy as a probiotic for enhancing digestibility.
The addition of probiotic substances in the equine diet has a multitude of benefits to the horse. Yea-Sacc 1026® promotes greater digestion efficiency of feed and stabilizes hindgut pH, preventing digestive upset associated with stress, training, performance and transport. More efficient digestion means that energy uptake is also enhanced, along with other important nutrients.
Providing yeast in the horse’s diet also enhances phosphorus and calcium availability, contributing to greater bone strength. Yea-Sacc 1026® has also been proven to stimulate milk production and enhance milk quality in lactating mares, resulting in healthier foals.
Directions for Use:
Body Weight
Scoops
Dose
< 200 kg
0.5 scoop
40 g
200 – 500 kg
1 scoop
80 g
> 500 kg
1.5 scoops
120 g
1 scoop = 125 cc = 80 grams
Body Weight
Scoops
Dose
< 440 lb
0.5 scoop
40 g
440 – 1100 lb
1 scoop
80 g
> 1100 lb
1.5 scoops
120 g
1 scoop = 125 cc = 80 grams
Caution:
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed when not in use.
Shelf Life:
12 months from date of manufacture.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by Health Canada or the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS: Per gram serving
Nutrients
Values
Units
Per 80 G
Crude Protein
(min)
21
%
16.8
g
Potassium
(act)
0.9
%
720
mg
Calcium
(act)
0.5
%
400
mg
Phosphorus
(act)
0.6
%
480
mg
Sodium
(act)
0.1
%
80
mg
Magnesium
(act)
0.3
%
240
mg
Iron
(max)
290
mg/kg
23.2
mg
Zinc
(act)
138
mg/kg
11
mg
Iodine
(act)
9
mg/kg
720
ug
Manganese
(act)
43
mg/kg
3,440
ug
Copper
(act)
9
mg/kg
720
ug
Total Bacteria and Yeast
(min)
1.1
1x10^9 cfu/g
88
1x10^9 cfu
Total Enzyme Activity
(min)
2,500
U/kg
200
U
Â
Ingredients: Oat Hulls, Yea-Sacc1026â„¢, EMPâ„¢, Bio-Mosâ„¢, Integral A+â„¢, Kelp Meal, Mad Barn 5-strain probioticâ„¢, Allzyme SSFâ„¢, Peppermint.
Register & manufactured by: Mad Barn Inc., Petersburg, ON, Canada.
COST COMPARISON
Quantity
Days Supplied
Serving Size
Cost Per Day
2.5 kg
31DAYS
80GRAMS
$1.45/ DAY
5 kg
62DAYS
80GRAMS
$1.37/ DAY
20 kg
250DAYS
80GRAMS
$1.20/ DAY
* Based on a 500 kg horse ** Taxes not included in cost calculation
Hi, I am wondering if the optimum digestive health is okay to feed to a pregnant mare? Or if you have a product for gut health that is approved to be fed to a pregnant mare? Thank you!
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QHi, I am wondering if the optimum digestive health is okay to feed to a pregnant mare? Or if you ......
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Asked by Amie on October 7, 2021 2:39 pm
Answered by the admin Optimum Digestive Health can be fed to pregnant mares.
My IR performance horse is getting Amino Trace and optimal probiotic. Is there an advantage to switching the optimum digestive pellet instead of straight probiotic while he’s on Amino Trace? Also gets W3 oil and vitamin E/Sel.
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QMy IR performance horse is getting Amino Trace and optimal probiotic. Is there an advantage to sw......
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Asked by Tamara Ahlberg on August 29, 2021 8:57 am
Answered by the admin Hi Tamara, This depends your horse's current gut health status. ODH is a more complete immune & digestion supplement with probiotics, prebiotics, yeast, digestive enzymes and immune nucleotides. However, not every horse needs ODH and many see excellent results with the straight probiotic.
I’ve had my horse on Visceral+ for almost 2 years. He didn’t have ulcers (that we know of), but since show horses who travel often are prone to them, I fed it more as a preventative/for extra gut support. I have been debating switching to ODH pellets, but since he now gets a daily NSAID (firocoxib), I’m wondering which is the better product for gut support?
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QI’ve had my horse on Visceral+ for almost 2 years. He didn’t have ulcers (that we know of), but s......
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Asked by Kathryn on August 26, 2021 5:48 pm
Answered by the admin Hi Kathryn, Visceral+ is our gold standard gut supplement and contains our most effective ingredients for gastrointestinal support. For show horses, we usually recommend Visceral+ as it supports both gastric and hindgut health.
I have an older horse (29) but still very healthy and active but has no back teeth left so cannot properly digest grass or hay so is on hay cubes thoroughly soaked. Has recently had a colic, suspected impaction develöping. Looking for the best product to help avoid future problems. Would your ODH product be helpful for him?
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QI have an older horse (29) but still very healthy and active but has no back teeth left so cannot......
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Asked by Karen on August 13, 2021 5:57 am
Answered by the admin Hi Karen, Optimum Digestive Health would be a good option for supporting your horse's gut health and maintaining the microbiome. This is especially important for senior horses and horses with dental issues. In the case of your horse, I would recommend submitting his diet for evaluation at https://madbarn.ca/analyze-diet/ and our nutritionists can help you design an appropriate feeding plan.
I will be starting my horse on a minimum 30-day course of Omeprazole from my vet to treat an ulcer. Would it be okay to follow-up with Optimum Digestive Health or would it be better to put her on the Visceral?? FYI - I did try her on Visceral a few years ago and she was extremely reluctant to eat it. I wasn't successful getting her to eat the entire 2.5 kg. bag.
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QI will be starting my horse on a minimum 30-day course of Omeprazole from my vet to treat an ulce......
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Asked by Sandy on July 24, 2021 9:44 am
Answered by the admin Hi Sandy, Thanks for your question! Optimum Digestive Health is targeted to hindgut health and feed efficiency. As a follow-up to Omeprazole, Visceral+ is more appropriate as it is better suited to supporting gastric health and helping to maintain healthy stomach lining. If you find your horse is reluctant to eat Visceral+, we have some tips to help make it more palatable. Should you try to feed Visceral+ and not have any luck, we will send you a bucket of Optimum Digestive Health+ to try for free.
How do I get my horse to eat it? I mix it in beet pulp and he’s still spitting it out?? Offered just straight and he’s like no way
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QHow do I get my horse to eat it? I mix it in beet pulp and he’s still spitting it out?? Offered j......
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Asked by ccambruzzi on July 12, 2021 9:29 pm
Answered by the admin You can try to take a bit of sweet feed or oats with molasses on it and feed just a tablespoon of that by hand a couple of times. Then, slide a couple of pellets of ODH underneath that a couple more times and then just the ODH pellets. Don’t be alarmed if the first time you put the ODH pellets underneath they spit it right back out. Try the cycle a few more times.
Can you feed Optimum Digestive with the probiotic? I know the Digestive has the probiotic in it . Thanks
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QCan you feed Optimum Digestive with the probiotic? I know the Digestive has the probiotic in it .......
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Asked by Katie wakefield on May 17, 2021 8:46 pm
Answered by the admin Yes, you can feed Optimum Probiotic with Optimum Digestive Health if you believe your horse needs additional probiotics in their diet. However, ODH does contain 20 billion CFUs of probiotics so in most cases it is not necessary to add more.
I have a 20 yr old mare who recently colicked with hindgut blockage followed by colitis. She was treated withbanamine. Omeprazole antibiotics. She also has cushings and receives medication for that as well as previcox and triacta. Not sure whether Visceral+ or Optimum Digestive Health would be most beneficial for her. Thankyou.
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QI have a 20 yr old mare who recently colicked with hindgut blockage followed by colitis. She was ......
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Asked by Judy Murphy on March 22, 2021 9:07 am
Answered by the admin Hi Judy - In this case, we would recommend feeding the recommended amount of Visceral+ (80 grams/1 scoop daily) for 2 months, and then transition to Optimum Digestive Health pellets after ~ 2 months. Visceral+ is our most comprehensive gut health supplement, which will help repair any damage to the stomach and intestinal tissue that may be present, while also providing the nutrients and probiotics needed to help re-establish a healthy hindgut microbiome. Optimum Digestive Health will continue to help re-build and maintain a healthy hindgut environment. Please feel free to contact us directly if you have any other questions!
What is the difference between Optimum Digestive Health and Visceral+?
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QWhat is the difference between Optimum Digestive Health and Visceral+?
Asked by Mad Barn Customer on March 21, 2021 8:53 pm
Answered by the admin Visceral+ was primarily designed to support gastric health in horses that are suspected or at high risk of having gastric ulcers. It also contains bacterial probiotics and prebiotic ingredients like MOS (mannan-oligosaccharides) to nourish the hindgut bacteria and restore balance to the entire digestive system. Ingredients like glutamine, magnesium, and lecithin also help to support the integrity of the intestinal lining and help the GI tract heal itself naturally. Optimum Digestive Health, or ODH, is a supplement that targets hindgut health, specifically, to enhance the fermentation of forage and reduce the level of harmful bacteria that may be proliferating in the hindgut. ODH contains probiotics and prebiotics, like Visceral+, but it does not contain glutamine or lecithin.
Hello. My horse has been on antibiotics for an extended period. Which of the Optimum products would be best to support his gut health.
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QHello. My horse has been on antibiotics for an extended period. Which of the Optimum products wou......
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Asked by Dawn Golding on February 21, 2021 8:48 am
Answered by the admin Hi Dawn,
If your horse has been on antibiotics for a long duration, the risk of ulcers can become a concern. Take a look at our Visceral+ supplement which is our strongest gut support supplement in our product line.
If you are not concerned about ulcers and your horse is generally in good health, our Optimum Digestive Health pellets are a good option as they contain probiotics, prebiotics, toxin binders, digestive enzymes and active yeast cultures.
The Optimum probiotic is a pure 5-strain probiotic supplement. We generally recommend it to be fed alongside our Omneity mineral and vitamin supplement as a preventative measure to support gut health. You could consider switching to this supplement after feeding Optimum Digestive Health for a couple months so long as your horse's health remains good.
I have a 25 year old horse and he has a diarrhea on occasion, he eats and drinks and he's very happy, my question is can he have both the purina senior feed with the optimum digestive health product? Thank you.
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QI have a 25 year old horse and he has a diarrhea on occasion, he eats and drinks and he's very ha......
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Asked by Janet McLellan on February 1, 2021 7:55 am
Answered by the admin Hi Janet,
Yes you can feed Optimum Digestive Health with the Purina Senior Feed product that your horse is already on.
How would I feed ODH to my senior horse with very few teeth?
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QHow would I feed ODH to my senior horse with very few teeth?
Asked by Dale Butt on January 3, 2021 10:09 am
Answered by the admin Hi Dale - Our ODH Pellets can be soaked in cold or warm (but not hot) water prior to feeding to soften them. Hot water will kill off the beneficial probiotics in the product.
How long after you start feeding do general results begin to show?
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QHow long after you start feeding do general results begin to show?
Asked by K Roberts on December 13, 2020 7:31 pm
Answered by the admin
You should start to see changes by 2-3 weeks, but it is recommended keep them on Optimum Digestive Health for at least 2 months to see significant changes. Some horses may take longer for results to be seen.
Is it ok to feed Visceral with the Optimum Digestive Health product?
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QIs it ok to feed Visceral with the Optimum Digestive Health product?
Asked by Vanessa White on November 9, 2020 2:12 pm
Answered by the admin
It would be safe to feed them together, but it is unnecessary. Visceral+ contains many of the same ingredients as Optimum Digestive Health, but also ingredients to support stomach health as well. If you need the stomach support, feed Visceral+, if not Optimum Digestive Health
I am currently feeding my horse the Omneity pellets, and was looking at the Optimum Digestive Health probiotic supplement. Can I feed my horse both of these together?
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QI am currently feeding my horse the Omneity pellets, and was looking at the Optimum Digestive Hea......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on May 31, 2020 9:07 pm
Answered by the admin Yes you can feed them together. Omneity does contain enzymes and yeast as well, but if you feel your horse needs additional support then it is fine to feed them together.
The Optimum Digestive Health is much more comprehensive than just the probiotic and does contain ingredients that Omneity does not, so although there is a bit of overlap, most of what is in ODH is not in Omneity.
What would be the length that the 5kg supply of the optimum digestive health would last when feeding?
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QWhat would be the length that the 5kg supply of the optimum digestive health would last when feed......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on May 31, 2020 9:06 pm
Answered by the admin The 5 kg pail of ODH will last 62 days if feeding 80 grams, the recommended rate for a 500 kg/1100 lb horse.
Is Optimum a pellet or a powder?
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QIs Optimum a pellet or a powder?
Asked by Mad Barn Customer on May 31, 2020 9:06 pm
Answered by the admin We have two products under the Optimum line. The first is the Optimum Probiotic which is just a straight powdered probiotic supplement. It contains a pure blend of 5 probiotic strains. The second product is Optimum Digestive Health which is a more comprehensive gut health supplement and contains probiotics and prebiotics. That comes in a pelleted form.
For a senior horse who is having issues with weight would you recommend Optimum Probiotic or Optimum Digestive Health?
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QFor a senior horse who is having issues with weight would you recommend Optimum Probiotic or Opti......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on March 21, 2020 11:49 am
Answered by the admin The difference between the two is that Optimum Digestive Health Pellets (ODH) have both probiotics and yeasts, toxin binders, enzymes and more to support total hindgut health. Our Optimum Probiotic just contains our 5-strain blend of probiotics. Both are excellent for replenishing and maintaining healthy gut bacteria so that nutrients are better absorbed and the risk of digestive upset is reduced. It depends what your goal is with your horse, but for more comprehensive hindgut support, I would go with the ODH. It is also important to determine whether there are underlying issues contributing to weight loss. Teeth issues and/or ulcers may be contributing to weight loss. I would also ensure that she is getting adequate levels of vitamins and minerals from her feed by weighing it and reading the feed instructions carefully. I say this because we often find that commercial feeds are not fed at the correct rate (by body weight) and can result in deficiencies long term that can affect many aspects of health, especially senior horses.
Does my horse also need the Optimum Probiotic if I am giving him Optimum Digestive Health (ODH) pellets?
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QDoes my horse also need the Optimum Probiotic if I am giving him Optimum Digestive Health (ODH) p......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on August 30, 2019 4:36 am
Answered by the admin No, ODH includes probiotics. One scoop of ODH will give a steady supply of probiotics.
I have a horse with hind gut problems. Do you recommend Visceral+ or Optimum Digestive Health?
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QI have a horse with hind gut problems. Do you recommend Visceral+ or Optimum Digestive Health?
Asked by Mad Barn Customer on August 24, 2019 3:02 pm
Answered by the admin If you are confident that the problem is in the hindgut, then Optimum Digestive Health is your best bet. However, if there is any hint of an ulcer, go with Visceral+.
I am trying to decide between the Optimum Probiotic and the Optimum Digestive Health Pellets. Why would I choose one supplement over the other?
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QI am trying to decide between the Optimum Probiotic and the Optimum Digestive Health Pellets. Why......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on August 24, 2019 2:55 pm
Answered by the admin Which product to choose really depends on what you're trying to achieve. The Optimum Probiotics are a great product and very affordable for providing everyday digestive support to help enhance immune function or to give before and after worming, antibiotic treatment etc. It is composed of 5 pure live bacterial strains (probiotics) and nothing else. Optimum Digestive Health is a much more comprehensive gut health solution and would be the go-to for horses with ongoing digestive issues or if you just want to improve overall gut health and absorption of nutrients. It has an array of ingredients to improve pre-cecal digestibility of macro-nutrients and improves overall digestibility of minerals. It helps steady the pH in the hindgut, enhances immunity through multiple mechanisms, increases mucin (protective layer in the gut) production and binds toxins.
What's the difference between your Optimum Digestive Health product and the Optimum Probiotic product?
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QWhat's the difference between your Optimum Digestive Health product and the Optimum Probiotic pro......
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Asked by Mad Barn Customer on August 24, 2019 12:50 pm
Answered by the admin The Optimum Probiotic supplement is composed of pure probiotic colonies and does not contain any additional ingredients. Optimum Digestive Health is a complete formula to support gut health, containing pre and probiotics, beneficial yeast colonies, immune modulators, toxin binders and natural ingredients to support growth of cells in the gut wall lining.
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Allzyme® SSF is an enzyme complex supplement created by Alltech. It is produced using a technology called solid-state fermentation, which uses a fungus called Aspergillus niger to produce a combination of enzymes. Enzymes work directly in the gastrointestinal tract to help break down feed components. Allzyme® SSF, in particular, helps release greater amounts of sugar, starches, protein and fibre from feeds.
Bio-Mos™ from Alltech™ is a proprietary ingredient made from a specific strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. This supplement is designed to supply the gastrointestinal tract with beneficial microorganisms that promote athletic performance and feed efficiency.
Copper is a micromineral that is required by the horse for proper nervous system function, antioxidant defense, cardiac function, bone development, cellular respiration, keratinization, tissue pigmentation and the formation of connective tissue. It is a catalytic co-factor for many important enzymes, meaning that it is required for these enzyme’s activity as a catalyst.
Dietary Escape Microbial Protein (EMP™) from Alltech is a type of protein supplement that isn’t broken down in the gut by microbes. According to Alltech, EMP is “A revolutionary microbial protein technology designed to provide a unique, high-quality protein source that delivers the complete array of essential amino acids to the [animal].”
Integral®A+ is a feed additive developed by Alltech that works as a prebiotic. It is composed of hydrolyzed yeast, beta-glucans, mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) and green algae.
Kelp meal (seaweed) is a type of brown algae that is rich in a number of chelated minerals required by the horse. It contains meaningful quantities of magnesium, potassium, iodine, calcium and iron. It is also a source of several vitamins, micro-nutrients and 20 different amino acids.
Magnesium is a macro-mineral that plays an important role in regulating nerve impulse transmission, protein synthesis, energy metabolism and enzyme activity. It is involved in over 300 different enzyme reactions in the horse’s body.
Mad Barn’s 5-strain probiotic supplement contains a synergistic blend of 5 different bacterial colonies that support gut health, digestion and immune function in your horse. Probiotics are the beneficial bacterial that colonize the intestines and inhibit the growth of pathogens that can cause disease.
Oat bran is made from the outer layer of the oat grain, just beneath the inedible husk and is used as a very palatable pellet binder and source of soluble fiber. Oat bran is low in starch and contains a high concentration of beta-glucan, which is a form of soluble fiber that has many benefits for horses.
Peppermint has been used as a digestive tonic for hundreds of years. The plant extract contains small amounts of volatile oils like menthol which can help to relax the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, support peristalsis and reduce symptoms of digestive upset. 
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient that is an important component of cell membranes (Phoshoplipids), bone structure and reactions requiring cellular energy (ATP/Adenosine TriPhosphate). Phosphorus also helps form the backbone of DNA and contributes to pH and electrolyte balance in bodily fluids.
Potassium is an essential macro mineral that functions as an electrolyte in the horse’s body. It is the most important intracellular cation, is essential for maintaining the contractility of smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscle, and also plays a role in regulating pH balance.
Sodium is a macro mineral that is the most recognizable electrolyte in the horse’s body. It plays a role in nerve impulse transmission, regulation of muscle contractions, maintenance of blood pressure, skeletal integrity, blood volume regulation and thirst regulation. 
Yea-Sacc 1026® is a yeast culture developed by Alltech that is based on Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain 1026. This strain of yeast was specifically selected for its influence on digestibility in animals. Many years of research in multiple animal species have clarified Yea-Sacc 1026® ‘s efficacy as a probiotic for enhancing digestibility.
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