Increasing stress from inclement weather often causes magnesium deficiency, which can have a cascade of adverse side effects for skin and coat, immune system and nervous system.
Magnesium deficiency symptoms can manifest with symptoms of anxiety and jumpiness, muscle spasms, metabolic issues and lethargy, skin problems with itchiness and sores (like psoriasis), slow wound healing and bone and hoof disorders. This is because when magnesium is deficient it suppresses mitochondrial metabolism, which lowers energy to the immune system, digestion and detox, and also collagen production for skin and bones. When magnesium is low and carbohydrates in diet are too high it can lead to acidosis and metabolic syndrome.
Sufficient magnesium supplementation in the diet is essential, especially during humid and wet times, because these conditions tend to be more favourable for pathogens, fungi and inspects. Grasses also tend to be more magnesium-depleted because the excessive rain washes away magnesium from surface soils.
Magnesium is essential for the whole electrical system. Even the beneficial gut bacteria rely on sufficient magnesium to work properly. However, it is also important to support the gut microbiome’s detox process. Common natural methods and supplements include apple cider vinegar for pH balance, gum mastic or clays for toxin binding, and essential oils and herbs for anti-bacterial effects when needed. And make sure that the balance in feeds of fats, proteins and carbs is right for your horse. An holistic approach to health maintenance has always proven to be the best, because the ‘whole’ is greater than the sum of the parts.
