Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is a common condition in horses and ponies, closely linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of laminitis. Diet plays a crucial role in both the development and management of EMS. Understanding what to feedand what to avoidcan make all the difference to your horses health.How Diet Contributes to EMSHigh Sugar & Starch Intake:Diets rich in sugars (from lush pasture or molassed feeds) and starches (from cereals and some mixes) can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance, both key factors in EMS.Excess Calories:Overfeeding, even with healthy feeds, can result in obesitya major risk factor for EMS.Unrestricted Grazing:Horses and ponies at risk often gain weight quickly on unrestricted pasture, especially in spring and autumn when grass is richest in sugars.Dietary Management for EMSLow Sugar, Low Starch:Choose feeds and forage that are low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs). Avoid cereals, molasses, and rich pastures.Controlled Calories:Offer only as much as your horse needs to maintain a healthy weight. Use a weigh tape and body condition scoring regularly.Soaked Hay:Soaking hay for several hours can reduce its sugar content, making it safer for EMS-prone horses.Forage First:The bulk of the diet should be low-sugar forage, not hard feed.Supplements:Horses on restricted diets may need vitamin/mineral supplements to ensure they still receive essential nutrients.Suitable Products from Chestnut MillAt Chestnut Mill, we stock a range of products suitable for horses and ponies with EMS:Low-Sugar Horse Feeds:Browse our low-sugar horse feedsfor safe options that support healthy weight and metabolic function.Soaked Hay & Haylage:Find quality hay and haylageideal for soaking and reducing sugar content.Vitamin & Mineral Balancers:View our horse supplementsto ensure your horse gets all the essential nutrients without excess calories.Salt & Mineral Licks:Explore salt and mineral licksto support overall health, especially when hard feed is reduced.If you need tailored advice, our team is always happy to help you choose the best products for your horses individual needs.