Benefits of Alfalfa
Energy For Performance
Alfalfa is an excellent source of high-quality fiber and provides slow release energy that can meet most of the daily requirements of light working animals. This benefit allows nutritionists to reduce the amount of starch from grains in the diet thereby reducing the risk of digestive upsets such as colic. The fermentation in Chaffhaye “predigests” the forage making it much easier for the animal to assimilate the fiber and other nutrients.
Alfalfa Is An Excellent Source of Protein
Alfalfa can be an excellent source of protein. All horses and livestock need protein, but especially those that are growing, lactating or adults in high-performance work. Protein also plays an important function in building muscle tone. Animals that do not receive sufficient levels of protein can experience stunted growth and development.
Low Sugar & Starch Content
Alfalfa is naturally low in sugar and starch. The Chaffhaye process further reduces the sugar content through a fermentation that converts sugars into beneficial lactic acid. The level of simple sugars in Chaffhaye falls to below 5%, less than the sugar level of most growing pasture or so-called “low sugar” commercial feeds. This makes Chaffhaye safe for horses that are laminitic or prone to other metabolic issues.
An Excellent Source of Calcium, Vitamins & Minerals
Alfalfa is a rich source of important vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and E, thiamin, riboflavin, biotin and folic acid. It is also an excellent source of calcium, which supports growth and development of healthy bones and hooves. Alfalfa has more than twice the calcium of grass and is easily absorbed into the body. If you or your nutritionist are concerned with achieving an optimum calcium to phosphorus ratio of 2:1, simply add a small amount of oats, which are low calcium and high in phosphorus to round out your animal’s diet.