The Benefits of Water Ionizers for Performance Horses

For performance horses like racehorses, polo ponies, and show jumpers, proper hydration is crucial for peak athletic performance. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, increased heart rate, and decreased endurance. That's why it's so important for these equine athletes to consume adequate amounts of clean, purified water. One effective way to purify and ionize water for horses is with a water ionizer. In this blog post, we’ll explore what water ionizers are, how they work, and their specific benefits for high-performance horses.

What is a Water Ionizer?

A water ionizer is an appliance that can turn regular tap water into alkaline, ionized water. It does this through a process called electrolysis. The water passes over electrically charged plates which separate the water molecules into alkaline and acidic streams. The alkaline water coming out of the ionizer has a higher pH and contains mineral ions like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The acidic water has a lower pH.

How Do Water Ionizers Work?

Water ionizers work by using electrolysis to manipulate the pH of water. Here’s a quick overview of the water ionization process:

• Tap water enters the ionizer and flows over positively and negatively charged electrode plates.

• The water molecules are attracted to the charged plates which separate the water into alkaline and acidic streams.

• The alkaline water gains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium ions giving it a higher pH.

• The acidic water has a lower pH as it loses mineral ions.

• The alkaline and acidic water streams are then discharged through separate hoses.

Benefits of Ionized Water for Horses

Here are some of the key benefits ionized alkaline water provides for equine athletes:

• Superior hydration - The smaller water molecule clusters in ionized water are more readily absorbed by the cells, providing superior hydration. This supports all body systems and physical exertion.

• Detoxification - The negatively charged ions in the water attract and neutralize toxins in the body and flush them out through urination. This helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

• Oxygenation - The isolated negative ions in ionized water enhance the delivery of oxygen to muscles and tissues. This boosts endurance, stamina, and recovery.

• Nutrient absorption - Alkaline ionized water facilitates better nutrient absorption from supplements and feeds. Hydrated tissues utilize nutrients more efficiently.

• Bone and joint health - The mineral ions in the water provide electrolytes that support fluid balance and joint shock absorption. This minimizes lameness.

• Muscle function - Proper muscle contraction and relaxation depends on electrolyte and pH balance. Ionized water helps optimize muscle performance and reduce cramping.

Key Takeaways:

Water ionizers produce purified alkaline water that promotes superior hydration, detoxification, oxygenation, and nutrient absorption in horses. This leads to enhanced stamina, endurance, joint health, and overall athletic performance. Providing ionized alkaline water is a smart way for trainers and owners to support their equine athletes. Investing in a water ionizer for the barn or stable is well worth it for the measurable benefits it provides racehorses and performance horses.