Last updated 7 years ago by UtrechtCentral.com

Just as in humans, recent research has shown that horses may also react adversely to the allergic effects of gluten; a protein composite present in wheat barley and rye.

People with celiac disease – associated with gluten intolerance – risk having their small intestine damaged after consuming products containing gluten. The most common symptoms to excess gluten exposure include intermittent colic, weight loss, poor performance and anemia.

The research was carried out on a horse with chronic inflammatory bowel disease carrying antibodies associated with celiac disease. The horse received a gluten-free diet after which its condition greatly improved after a period of six months.

The research is an initiative of the Utrecht University and the Free University of Amsterdam.

Source: Horse & Country

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