Chia seeds provide a natural, fiber-rich approach to supporting horses with gastric ulcers by forming a protective gel in the digestive tract, helping buffer stomach acid while promoting gut health and reducing irritation.

Understanding Equine Ulcers

Equine gastric ulcers—commonly referred to as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)—occur when the stomach lining becomes irritated or eroded by acid.

Why ulcers develop:

• Horses continuously produce stomach acid
• Periods without forage leave the stomach unprotected
• Stress, travel, and intense training increase risk
• High-starch diets can worsen acid exposure

Common signs:

• Poor appetite or picky eating
• Weight loss or difficulty maintaining condition
• Behavioral changes (irritability, resistance under saddle)
• Mild, recurrent colic
• Reduced performance

How Ulcers Are Diagnosed

The gold standard for diagnosis is:

• Gastroscopy (endoscopic exam of the stomach)

Veterinarians may also evaluate:

• Clinical signs
• Response to treatment

Standard Treatment Approach

Typical veterinary treatment includes:

• Acid-reducing medications (e.g., omeprazole)
• Dietary adjustments (more forage, lower starch)
• Stress reduction and management changes

Chia seeds fit into this plan as a nutritional support tool, not a replacement for medical treatment.

Why Chia Seeds Work for Ulcers

1. Forms a Protective Gel Barrier

When hydrated, chia seeds create a mucilage (gel) that:

• Coats the stomach lining
• Helps buffer acid exposure
• Reduces irritation to sensitive tissues

2. Supports Continuous Digestive Protection

Unlike short-acting feeds, chia’s gel:

• Persists as it moves through the digestive tract
• Provides extended support between meals

3. High Soluble Fiber Content

Chia helps:

• Stabilize digestion
• Promote steady gut movement
• Reduce acid splash in the stomach

4. Anti-Inflammatory Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Inflammation worsens ulcer severity.

Chia’s omega-3s help:

• Reduce inflammation in the digestive tract
• Support healing conditions
• Improve overall gut resilience

5. Supports Gut Microbiome Health

A healthy gut environment is critical for ulcer prevention.

Chia:

• Acts as a prebiotic fiber
• Feeds beneficial bacteria
• Supports overall digestive balance

How Long Does It Take to See Results

Short-Term (7–10 days)

• Improved appetite
• Reduced signs of discomfort
• More consistent manure

Mid-Term (2–4 weeks)

• Noticeable improvement in behavior and attitude
• Better feed intake and condition

Long-Term (4+ weeks)

• Continued digestive support
• Lower risk of recurrence (with proper management)

Chia works best when used consistently alongside veterinary treatment.

Feeding Guidelines

Daily Amount

• Average horse: 1–2 oz per day
• Higher-need horses: up to 2–3 oz per day

Feeding Method

• Feed soaked or dry
• Soaking is recommended for ulcer support to maximize gel formation
• Mix into forage or low-starch feed

Best Practices

• Introduce gradually over 5–7 days
• Feed consistently every day
• Ensure constant access to clean water

Why Chia Is a Strong Nutritional Choice for Ulcers

Compared to Grain-Based Feeds

• Grains increase acid production and irritation
• Chia is low starch and soothing

Compared to Oils

• Oils provide calories but no digestive coating
• Chia provides gel-forming fiber + omega-3s

Whole-Food Advantage

• Minimal processing
• Multi-functional (digestive + anti-inflammatory + nutritional)
• Easy to feed and highly palatable

Best Use Strategy

For horses with ulcers:

• Provide constant access to forage
• Feed smaller, more frequent meals
• Reduce high-starch feeds
• Add chia daily for digestive support
• Minimize stress where possible

Key Takeaway

Chia seeds offer a natural, supportive approach to managing equine ulcers by forming a protective barrier in the stomach, reducing inflammation, and improving overall digestive health. When used consistently alongside proper veterinary care and feeding practices, chia can play a meaningful role in both recovery and prevention.