A forage-only diet can benefit some horses due to its simplicity and ability to provide a variety of essential nutrients. Madeline Boast, an independent equine nutritionist based in Canada, explains why some horses on a forage-only diet might need additional supplementation to support a healthy equine gut microbiome. 

This podcast is an excerpt of our Ask TheHorse Live Q&A, “Maintaining the Equine Gut Microbiome.” Listen to the full recording here.

About the Expert

Madeline Boast

Madeline Boast completed her master’s in Equine Nutrition at the University of Guelph and started an independent nutrition company known as Balanced Bay. She has worked with a variety of equids—from Miniature Ponies to competing Thoroughbreds. Boast designs customized balanced nutrition plans that prioritize equine well-being, both for optimal performance and solving complex nutritional issues and everything between.