Leaky Gut Syndrome

Equine Leaky Gut Syndrome (ELGS) is a condition in which permeability of the gut is increased, permitting entry of potentially toxic intestinal contents into the blood. Little is known about the causes and clinical consequences of leaky gut syndrome, but various types of stress (including exercise and transport) and a disturbed gut microbiome may result in impaired performance and inflammatory diseases such as laminitis. This session will review what is known about ELGS, and suggest strategies for limiting its clinical effects.

Dr. Wendy Pearson is a life-long horse enthusiast. She worked in the thoroughbred racing industry in New Zealand and Canada between 1990 and 2002, during which time she also spent 6 years as a Research Associate at the Equine Research Centre at the University of Guelph. Wendy completed an MSc (Nutritional Toxicology) and a PhD (Biomedical Toxicology) at the University of Guelph with specialization in medicinal herbs and nutraceutical supplements for animals, during which time she founded and was President of the Nutraceutical Alliance Inc. and Lindenfarne Horse Park until 2018. She is currently Associate Professor of Equine Physiology in the Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Canada. Her research focuses on developing in vitro and in vivo models to advance our understanding of inflammatory conditions affecting horses and companion animals, and their prevention by targeted nutrition.

Dr. Wendy Pearson

Associate Professor - Equine Physiology, University of Guelph

CEU Credits:

There will be no CEU Credits available for this presentation.