Interpretive Summary: Exercise and Lactation in horses: what do we know?

By: Sarah Reed (Univ. Connecticut)

The maternal environment during gestation and lactation affects foal health and growth. Obesity during lactation may decrease milk production and alter milk composition. Moderately obese pregnant and lactating mares have altered insulin and glucose dynamics relative to lean mares. Exercise may help obese lactating mares reach a healthier body condition and improve insulin sensitivity. In lactating women, aerobic exercise improves decreases body weight and has no adverse effects on milk production, circulating prolactin concentrations, or milk composition. As obesity in mares becomes more common, it’s important to identify safe strategies to improve health outcomes for both the mare and foal.