Apple-Lyte

Calcium is a micromineral found in highest amounts in bone and teeth. However, it also has important roles in supporting muscle contraction, cell membranes, blood clotting, enzymes regulation, and hormone release. Absorption of calcium from the small intestine is controlled by vitamin D but can be reduced if there is too much phosphorus in the diet. Ideally, horses should receive slightly more calcium than phosphorus – a ratio between 1:1 and 2:1. Pregnant and lactating mares, growing horses, and exercising horses may need more dietary calcium than an adult horse at rest. 

Cobalt (Co) is a micromineral used by intestinal microorganisms to produce vitamin B12, which works with iron and copper to form healthy red blood cells.

Copper (Cu) is a micromineral that aids in the production of normal connective tissues including tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone. As a component of many enzyme systems, it is also involved in making iron available to the body for blood, in producing skin and coat pigments, in proper nerve signaling and in repairing antioxidants. 

Inositol is closely related to the B-vitamin family and is found in nearly every cell in the body. Because of its location within the cell membrane, it plays two major roles: transporting fats and assisting in nerve transmission. By participating in the action of serotonin, a neurotransmitter whose brain levels are known to be a factor in excess anxiety, inositol may be helpful in promoting a healthy balanced behavior in horses. 

Magnesium (Mg) is a macro mineral that is frequently recommended for a wide range of equine health conditions. Magnesium helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function, a healthy heart, healthy immune system and strong bones. Magnesium aids to regulate blood sugar levels, promotes normal blood pressure, and known to be involved in energy metabolism and protein synthesis. Since a symptom of magnesium deficiency is agitation or anxiety, it is included in many calming supplements.

Manganese is a micromineral that aids in bone formation, growth and reproduction. It also supports carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Supplementation should be considered because not all diets provide the same levels of manganese. It plays an important role in young growing horses as well as active performance horses. 

Potassium (K) is a macromineral commonly referred to as an electrolyte to help support proper muscle function. It helps maintain the body's acid/base balance and hydration status. Muscle weakness, fatigue, and exercise intolerance are likely when potassium deficiency is present.

Salt (sodium chloride or NaCl) plays an important role in maintaining hydration, nerve and muscle function and also helps regulate body's pH balance. Many equine diets can be low in sodium, therefore additional supplementation may be necessary and can vary depend on workload, exercise, weight etc. According to the Nutrient Requirements of Horses (NRC), a 1,100 pound adult horse in no work requires 10 grams of sodium daily, which can be met by giving 1 ounce of salt daily.

Sodium helps support normal nerve and muscle function, as well as transport of many substances (such as glucose) across cell membranes. The two elements (sodium and chloride) are responsible for the regulation of body fluids, as well as the conduction of electrical impulses in nerves and muscles, and are the most important of the minerals known as electrolytes (minerals which are lost in the sweat and urine during exercise stress). There is very little sodium in forages and grains, therefore many equine diets can be low in sodium. Additional supplementation may be necessary and can vary depend on workload, exercise, weight etc. According to the Nutrient Requirements of Horses (NRC), a 1,100 pound adult horse in no work requires 10 grams of sodium daily, which can be met by giving 1 ounce of salt daily.

Zinc (Zn) is a micromineral involved in over 100 enzyme systems ranging from support of connective tissue formation and antioxidants to carbohydrate metabolism and immune system function. It is most recognized for its role in healthy skin and hooves.

Can I put Apple-Lyte in my horses water?

MVP:  Yes, however when giving electrolytes in water, be sure to always provide an additional water source without electrolytes. Providng water with electrolytes may cause issues with horses that are not used to the taste, as it may take time to become accustomed to it. Offering water free of electrolytes added will prevent dehydration during transition period. Apple-Lyte may also be given in your horse's feed. 

Is Apple-Lyte beneficial for short term use as well? I know it says for daily use but can I just use it during extensive long weekend competitions or during a short term heat wave? Should I use more if so?

MVP: Apple-Lyte™ may certainly be used short term. The recommended serving size would remain the same even if fed short term. For intensive weekend competitions, you might also consider Electro-Cell II Paste.