Stress, Stomach, Support: Using Hyaluronic Acid During Competition and Travel

Stress, Stomach, Support: Using Hyaluronic Acid During Competition and Travel

Equine gastric health is a cornerstone of performance, comfort, and long-term well-being in horses. For equestrians, veterinarians, and horse owners, the intersection of stress, stomach acid, and ulcers is a well-known triad. The more we ask of our horses—through training, transport, or competition—the more we must protect their digestive systems. Among the most promising tools in modern equine care is hyaluronic acid (HA): a natural compound that offers not just hydration, but barrier support and mucosal resilience.

In this article, we explore why hyaluronic acid is increasingly used as a preventative gastric supplement, especially for horses facing high-stress situations.

The Physiology of Stress and Acid Production in Horses

Horses are incredibly sensitive to environmental and physiological stressors. Unlike humans, they continuously secrete hydrochloric acid in the stomach—whether they are eating or not. This trait makes horses especially vulnerable to gastric ulcers when subjected to conditions such as:

• Long intervals without forage
• Travel and transport
• Intense training or competition
• Stable changes or social disruption

When stress hormones like cortisol increase, they can suppress blood flow to the gut, reduce mucosal defense mechanisms, and increase gastric acid secretion. Horses are particularly prone to ulcers in the squamous (non-glandular) region of the stomach, which lacks protective mucus and bicarbonate secretion.

Studies show that up to 90% of performance horses may develop some form of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS).

Stress alone doesn’t cause ulcers—but when combined with fasting, high-concentrate diets, and acid splash from movement, the gastric lining becomes highly susceptible.

Hyaluronic Acid: Not Just for Joints Anymore

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has long been associated with joint health and mobility, but recent research has highlighted its unique properties in supporting mucosal tissue. When used as a gastric supplement, HA works differently than traditional buffers or antacids:

• Mucoadhesive properties help HA stick to the gastric lining, forming a protective film
• Hydration effects maintain tissue elasticity and barrier integrity
• Immune modulation may support anti-inflammatory responses

In horses, this means HA can provide targeted protection where acid splash is most damaging.

A Pre-Emptive Strategy for Gastric Health

The best treatment for gastric ulcers is prevention. And prevention starts before the horse steps onto a trailer or into an arena.

Administering hyaluronic acid proactively can help minimize:

• Acid-induced irritation
• Mucosal thinning from stress
• The need for long-term pharmaceutical therapy (e.g. omeprazole)

HA doesn’t reduce acid production—but it helps the mucosa withstand its effects more effectively.

Unlike proton pump inhibitors, which suppress acid secretion and may interfere with digestion, HA preserves the stomach’s natural environment while reinforcing its defenses.

When and How to Use HA for Traveling and Competing Horses

Timing and consistency matter when using hyaluronic acid as a preventive supplement. Here’s a practical guide:

Before Travel

• Begin supplementation 3–5 days before transport
• Continue throughout the travel period

During Competitions

• Maintain daily administration
• Consider twice-daily dosing if meals are disrupted or stress is elevated

After Events or Stable Changes

• Continue use for at least 5–7 days post-event
• Monitor appetite and behavior for signs of gastric discomfort

Most equine-targeted hyaluronic acid supplements come in various forms and are often combined with other mucosa-supportive ingredients such as aloe, alginates, or linseed.

Liquid forms are particularly well tolerated and make it easier to measure the correct dose, for example using a dosing pump.

What to Look for in a Quality HA Gastric Supplement

Not all hyaluronic acid supplements are created equal. When choosing a product, consider:

• Gelled or microencapsulated forms for extended contact time with mucosa
• Presence of supportive co-ingredients (e.g., mucilaginous substances)
• Purity and molecular weight – higher molecular weight HA tends to be more mucoadhesive
• Manufacturer transparency and scientific backing

Look for products designed specifically for gastric support—not just repurposed joint supplements.

A Realistic, Long-Term Tool for Equine Athletes

Sport horses face unavoidable stressors. While 24/7 pasture access and ad-lib forage might be ideal, they’re often impractical in competition or training environments. Hyaluronic acid offers a realistic, non-pharmaceutical buffer for horses exposed to these pressures.

Final Thoughts

Managing equine gastric health during periods of stress doesn’t need to rely solely on acid blockers. Hyaluronic acid represents a new wave of mucosal support—one that’s rooted in physiology, supported by emerging science, and designed for real-world application.

Whether your horse is a top-level competitor or simply experiences frequent transport and routine changes, considering HA as part of their gastric care plan may help preserve not only stomach comfort, but also performance and quality of life.