Calculate % NSC in your horse’s diet

When considering low-starch or low-carb nutrition options, it is important for owners to calculate NSC in their horse’s dietary regimen. With diets high in NSC linked to several digestive and metabolic disorders, it is important to feel confident in assessing the starches and sugars in your horse’s feed.

When Would You Need To Calculate NSC?

For horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome with Insulin Dysregulation (EMS/ID) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) also known as “Equine Cushing’s Disease”.

What is the maximum %NSC that should be allowed?

That depends on the severity of insulin dysregulation in the individual horse. Suggested Guidelines (*individual horses will vary) for the Maximum NSC in the Total Diet:

<10-12% for horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome
<15% for horses with PPID “Cushings”
<12% for horses with PPID “Cushings” and insulin dysregulation (*remember that insulindysregulation can range in severity and this can change as the disease progresses)

Chart representing the steps to calculate NSC in your horse's diet and example diets to follow

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Feed Selector tool representing selection of feed that can calculate NSC

One Reply to “How To Calculate % Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC) in your horse’s diet.”

Hello,
I watched the webinar Dr. Abby K gave and it helped me understand some things better. She mentioned a worksheet to help owners figure out the NSC of their horses diet. Where can I get that or is there someone that can help me figure out the total NSC ?

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