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How To Calculate % Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC) in your horse’s diet

Calculating NSC in your horses diet

When considering low-starch or low-carb nutrition options, it is important for owners to calculate NSC in their horse’s dietary regimen. With diets high in NSC linked to several digestive and metabolic disorders, it is important to feel confident in assessing the starches and sugars in your horse’s feed.

When Would You Need To Calculate NSC?

For horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome with Insulin Dysregulation (EMS/ID) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) also known as “Equine Cushing’s Disease”.

What is the maximum %NSC that should be allowed?

That depends on the severity of insulin dysregulation in the individual horse. Suggested Guidelines (*individual horses will vary) for the Maximum NSC in the Total Diet:

  • <10-12% for horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome
  • <15% for horses with PPID “Cushings”
  • <12% for horses with PPID “Cushings” and insulin dysregulation (*remember that insulindysregulation can range in severity and this can change as the disease progresses)

Ready to ensure your horse is getting the optimum nutrition at feeding time, every time? Find the perfect feed formulated specifically for horse’s needs with our Feed Selector Tool.