What are the benefits of este balancer extra?

The Este Balancer Extra was created from the desire to create an optimal balancer, based on measured levels of nutrients in the roughage in our regions (Belgium and the Netherlands). The balancer was designed by veterinarian and European Specialist Horse Internal Diseases (Dipl. ECEIM) Dr. Sara Torfs, in consultation with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ghent University. The values have been calculated in such a way that they are sufficient in combination with a “poorer” ration, but do not cause an overdose in combination with “richer” roughage.

Este Balancer Extra distinguishes itself from other products through:

  • Very high vitamin E content combined with vitamin C and a safe amount of selenium, for optimal antioxidant effect

  • Contains chelated copper and zinc for good absorption

  • Very high biotin content for the condition of hooves and coat: with 20 mg per day even higher than some hoof supplements

  • Essential amino acids lysine and methionine, necessary for muscle building and growth

  • Source of essential fatty acids (omega 3 and 6 in a healthy ratio)

  • Contains B vitamins that support the metabolism and production of red blood cells

  • No iron added to avoid overdose. Iron is already present in large quantities in roughage!

  • Suitable for horses with EMS or laminitis: grain-free, very low starch and sugar content (3.5% starch and only 4.2% sugars!), and with a generous dose of magnesium

  • Contains a probiotic: the live yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sc47. Studies have shown that this yeast supports fiber digestion and helps protect colon and caecum contents against acidification (references). Disruption of this acidity is an important link in the occurrence of laminitis and gas colic. Pre-biotic fibers from apple pulp and alfalfa in Este Balancer Extra further support optimal digestion.

  • Fair food: free from grain, soy products, preservatives and genetically modified organisms

  • We want healthy horses, but also a healthy planet: recyclable packaging, local production in the Netherlands and no use of soy. Recycling tip: after loosening the top closing cord, the plastic inner bag is easy to remove from the paper outer bag.

how much Este Balancer Extra should i feed?

The feeding advice is 50 grams of balancer per 100 kg body weight per day, so 250 grams for an average horse of 500 kg.

This amount has been calculated for effectiveness and safety: with almost any hay or hay dry and possibly a limited supplement of concentrates, the feed balance is correct. It is therefore not a good idea to just feed more when your horse is working harder, or to feed less because he is resting. In those cases, you will adjust the other parts of the ration.

For horses that, in addition to roughage, receive a concentrate that is highly supplemented with vitamins and minerals, it may be recommended to feed the balancer in a lower amount. When in doubt, ask for advice.

For a detailed calculation of the proportions of your horse's ration, with detailed advice on the best supplement, it is also possible to request a ration calculation.

What about picky eaters?

Este Balancer Extra contains little sugar and many minerals. Although many horses directly like the taste, some picky horses or horses that are used to getting sugar-rich feed, can sometimes take some getting used to the taste. A trick for this is to first mix a very small portion of balancer into a palatable feed and then increase the quantity of balancer very gradually, only if the horse is accepting the current amount well. For horses that do not receive concentrate you could use some grass pellets, alfalfa pellets or something else that the horse knows and likes. Este Natural Power is a low-sugar and low-starch but very palatable option. Count on a four-week adjustment period for the picky eaters.