I’m feeding hay cubes, and the binder used is sodium bentonite. The sodium bentonite contains approximately 4.4% Fe203. The lab results indicate that I am putting the overall iron levels quite high. (greater than 1000 ppm ) I understand about iron overload in horses but my question is does this form of iron contribute to this condition or it poorly absorbed? I have read that there are some differences depending on the type of iron.
In humans, ferric irons are generally poorly absorbed. This is why iron supplements for anemia are usually made with ferrous sulfate or other ferrous iron. I have no idea if horses absorb ferric irons. I don’t know if a serum iron level be accurate and would answer your concern.
After reading on ECIR (PPID and IR) about iron in feed/hay I also wonder about this. There’s an association between iron and insulin resistance. The ECIR group lists labs that test for iron levels in horses. Iron overload? Sheesh - what next to worry about.
Folks should Google “iron overload in horses” to find an astounding amount of credible articles, dating back as far as 2013, regarding the effects of high iron on metabolic horses.
Iron depletes copper & zinc, both of which are needed to stabilize insulin, along with maintaining healthy coats and hooves:)
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