**3. Conclusion**

ation. Multiple studies have evaluated the benefits of psyllium's daily use in horses who struggle with right dorsal colitis. Intestinal bacteria ferment psyllium to produce short-chain fatty acids that can aid in the healing of mucosal tissues [50]. Feeding psyllium to horses can actually lower blood glucose and insulin levels [51]. This may aid to ameliorate conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, Cushings, and many other common metabolic issues. When psyllium is fed in its proper form, psyllium has the ability to support optimal digestive function. By coating the intestinal lining, it allows for the effective movement of feed and debris through the digestive tract while also promoting maximum absorp-

316 Superfood and Functional Food - An Overview of Their Processing and Utilization

**Bee pollen:** It contains high concentrations of living enzymes. It is good for older horses or those that have inadequate grazing. Bee pollen contains a full range of super whole food vitamins, minerals, coenzymes, antioxidants, and amino acids. It has helped older horses maintain their muscle tone as they age [45]. Pollen contains high concentrations of living enzymes. However, high heat destroys enzymes; therefore, it is essential that the form is raw whole food. Bee is collected from flower pollen and is a natural food for horses, and can bring them into a healthy springtime bloom anytime of the year [53]. There are numerous reports of the benefits of supplemented bee pollen in horses including improved oxygen utilization, lower heart rates, and firmer muscle tone [54]. A recent pilot study in horses demonstrated bee pollen supplementation on physical fitness parameters, immunological status, and nutritional variables in Arabian horses in training. It was observed that supplementation with a commercial 55% bee pollen for 42 days did not change physical fitness or immunological variables in the horses but it significantly increased feed consumption and

**Echinacea**: A popular herb (purple coneflower, a common ornamental garden plant) stimulates the immune system and helps fend off opportunistic infections such as the common cold. The equine industry typically uses Echinacea as an immune booster to compliment a healthy immune system [55]. Studies by Briggs [56] showed that Echinacea is an immunostimulant and a hematinic agent in horses. Echinacea is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties [57]. This is an exceptional herb given to

tion of nutrients and water [52].

**Figure 3.** Spirulina powder [48].

nutrient retention in the same horses [54].

Feeding super foods and functional foods to companion animals provides multiple health benefits. Such foods help maintain good immune response, body hair coat, digestive health, locomotion, and general well-being. More investigations need to be carried out to identify other super foods and functional foods for companion animals and determine precisely what benefits they may boast.
