Just a quick note for all of you who feed WHOLE grains to your horses. While whole are DEFINITELY better than any processed grains (NO processed is the best!) I just learned from Sally Fallon about Phytic Acid in whole grains and why they are not necessarily the best … Read on:

From Sally Fallon in Nourishing Traditions:

All grains contain phytic acid (an organic acid in which phosphorous is bound) in the outer layer or bran. Untreated phytic acid can combine with calcium, magnesium, copper, iron especially zinc in the intestinal track and block their absorption. This is why a diet high in unfermented whole grains may led to serious mineral deficiencies and bone loss. The modern misguided practice of consuming large amounts of unprocessed bran often improves colon transit time at first but may lead to irritable bowel syndrome and, in the long term, many other adverse effects. Soaking allows enzyme, lactobacilli and other helpful organisms to break down and neutralize phytic acid. As little as seven hours of soaking in warm acidulated water will neutralize a large portion of phytic acid in grains. The simple practice of soaking cracked or rolled cereal grains overnight will vastly improve their nutritional benefits.

And what horse doesn’t LOVE a soaked mash of sorts with all sorts of fresh veggies and fruits cut up ??? What a wonderful, healthy treat! (And for US, too — think of kids’ breakfast! *GRIN*)