RE: [RC] For Susan Garlinghouse -- Beet Pulp / Rice Bran ?? - Susan E. Garlinghouse, D.V.M.
>So my
question; Is the 3 or 4 cups a day limit related to the ulcer theory?
No, it’s mostly related to calcium
and phosphorus levels that get excessive and IMO cause other metabolic
issues. Other opinions vary, but that’s my view on it. The
ulcer issue is another point against large amounts of the stuff, though.
I have no problem with rice bran in
reasonable amounts, just don’t think it should be fed by the truckload.
>Do you agree with the ulcer/rice
bran theory?
Well, let’s say I don’t
disagree with it. I haven’t seen any research that specifically
supports or disproves the theory, but have heard the comment from a number of
internal med practitioners that see an awful lot of gastric ulcers, and don’t
have an axe to grind as to the conditions causing it.
What would you recommend
instead of rice bran if we need to discontinue it because of the ulcers?
Our horses get beet pulp, rice bran, flax seeds, a biotin supplement, and daily
wormer (which, by the way, is the only thing the vet doesn't want us to
discontinue during her month on Gastrogard) along with all Bermuda grass they
can eat, supplemented with orchard grass.
I would just increase the amounts of
everything else you’re feeding. You might add just a handful or two
of wheat bran as a phosphorus source---the other feeds you mention are a tad
short.
