Collection: PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy)

Targeted nutrition is critical for horses with PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy) in order to avoid episodes of tying up by assisting stored glycogen in successfully converting back into glucose where it can be used as energy by the mitochondria.

A grain-free diet, rich in healthy fats, specific amino acids, low starch / low sugar (NSC below 12%) and zero synthetic pesticides may be able to combat muscle wastage (myogenic atrophy) from negative nitrogen balance (muscle catabolism) caused by PSSM.

Included in this collection are pure sources of healthy fats, high protein / specific amino acids (the building blocks for protein synthesis), targeted nutrients (i.e., Natural Vitamin E and Magnesium Glycinate which interestingly, the symptoms of magnesium deficiency align with the symptoms of PSSM) and low starch / low sugar / low NSC.

Avoid cinnamon, dandelion and chromium, as these can increase uptake of insulin, and PSSM horses already experience high insulin sensitivity.

Following these guidelines for diet can help minimize large fluctuations in blood glucose, and support your horse in experiencing fewer and less severe episodes of muscle damage and stiffness.

Related: “Whenever fat is added to an equine ration, Vitamin E should also be used to protect against the oxidative damage that could occur when the fat is metabolized.” -Meri Stratton Phelps, DVM, MPVM, DACVIM, DACVN. (This is especially important if you're feeding inflammatory fat sources such as corn oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, soy oil, etc.)