SmartPak announces results of a recent study at Texas A&M AgriLife on one of the newest supplements to its joint support category: SmartStride Ultra Pellets.
Horses galloping on the beach
New university study by Texas A&M AgriLife shows next-generation SmartStride Ultra supports horse joint health.
© 2017 by Ed Dunens New window.
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the supplement’s ability to maintain joint health in sound horses undergoing exercise. The research suggests this cutting-edge formula may increase range of motion in the hock, supporting comfort and longevity in horses.
Jessica L. Leatherwood, PhD, assistant professor of equine science in the department of animal science at Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, served as the lead investigator on the study. The purpose of the research was to evaluate the effect of SmartStride Ultra pellets on gait mechanics – including stride length and range of motion – as well as on markers of inflammation and cartilage metabolism in mature horses undergoing light to moderate exercise.
“We were eager to conduct this study and excited for the opportunity to partner with Dr. Leatherwood and her team at Texas A&M University,” said Dr. Lydia Gray, SmartPak’s staff veterinarian - research and medical director. “With this investigation, we are able to back SmartStride Ultra with quality science and statistical analysis to help our customers make informed decisions.”
The study followed 20 stock-type horses and took place over the course of 28 days. The 10 horses in the treatment group received the maintenance serving of SmartStride Ultra once daily while the 10 horses in the control group received placebo pellets.
The SmartStride Ultra and placebo pellets were alphabetically coded and all university investigators were blinded to treatment through statistical analysis. All horses participated in a 12-mile exercise challenge on day 13 and day 27. On days 0, 14, and 28 all horses underwent a gait analysis and had blood drawn to analyze cartilage and inflammatory biomarkers.
At the conclusion of the study, the results showed horses supplemented with SmartStride Ultra had a statistically significant increase in range of motion in the hock at the walk and a tendency toward increased range of motion at the trot. The research suggests SmartStride Ultra may improve comfort and longevity in the mature horse.
“SmartPak impressed me with its commitment to a rigorous study protocol and dedication to scientific transparency,” said Dr. Leatherwood. To learn more about this soon-to-be-published study, visit www.SmartPak.com/SmartStrideUltra
SmartStride Ultra provides revolutionary and new ingredients such as turmeric and resveratrol for supporting a normal response to inflammation plus a proprietary form of boron for maintaining bone health. The supplement also contains the “tried and true” ingredients glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and HA for joint health, as well as collagen and silica for resilient tendons and ligaments.
About SmartPak
From the feed room to the tack room, SmartPak offers innovative solutions to help riders take great care of their horses. SmartPak was founded in 1999 with the introduction of the patented SmartPak supplement feeding system. The revolutionary, daily dose SmartPaks are custom-made for your horse, individually labeled and sealed for freshness. With the success of this simple and convenient feeding system, SmartPak has continued to expand its offering of quality products, including its own line of more than 55 supplement formulas called SmartSupplements, and a wide variety of tack, equipment, and supplies. The company has grown rapidly each year and is one of the largest retailers of equestrian products in the United States. SmartPak’s success has been powered by a passion for delivering an unbeatable customer experience, and the company has been recognized with a Bizrate Circle of Excellence award nine years in a row, as well as receiving an “Elite” rating from STELLAService.
Press release provided by Kelcie Griffith