Omega fatty acids may not be a major concern for many horse guardians, but the fact is they play a very important role in both our horses as well as our own health.
There are three main types of omegas: 3, 6, and 9. Omegas 3 and 6 are considered essential fatty acids (EFAs) because the body cannot manufacture them on its own. The lesser talked-about omega 9 fatty acids are described as non-essential because the body can synthesize them from other foods in the diet.
Omegas are important for horses because they help to:
- Balance immune function;
- Protect joints and ligaments;
- Reduce airway inflammation;
- Support gastrointestinal function;
- Reduce skin allergies; and
- Decrease nervousness.
Your horse may be getting plenty of omegas from his diet already, but what we should be more concerned with is the type and ratio of the omegas he’s consuming.
Though researchers haven’t yet determined an exact ratio for horses, it’s thought that somewhere between 2 – 5:1 omega 3 to omega 6 is best. The main thing to keep in mind is that your horse should be getting MORE omega 3 than omega 6 in his overall diet.
Omega 3
Omega 3s are typically seen as the good guys because they are known to be anti-inflammatory. They are critical for brain function, and they also aid in healing the body after injury or intense exercise. For horses, the best source for omega 3 is fresh, green grass. When grass is cut and dried for hay, however, it loses its omega content. If your horse is on green pasture 24/7, he’s getting 6 to 20 times more omega 3s than omega 6s. However, horses on grain/hay diets get the exact opposite.
Supplementing with a good omega 3 source like our Organic Stone Ground Flaxseed is called for in instances such as this.
Omega 6
Horses require a lesser amount of this essential fatty acid and though omega 6 often gets a bad rap because it is known for causing inflammation and immune system reactions, it is also necessary to stabilize injuries and fight off infections. So in reality, omega 6 isn’t bad; you just don’t want to overdo it with omega 6.
The following foods are high in omega 6 and should only be fed in limited amounts (and only in conjunction with
higher amounts of omega 3):
- grains;
- vegetable and corn oil;
- sunflower seeds; and
- rice bran.
Again, horses on green pasture are likely fine when it comes to their omega intake, but supplementation of omega 3 rich ingredients is necessary for those who aren’t. Older horses who might have difficulty utilizing the omegas they consume in grass and feeds may benefit from supplementation as well.
Sources
Supplementing Horse Diets with Omega Fatty Acids
Horse Journal: Guide to Equine Supplements and Nutraceuticals (book)
Omega Fatty Acids Are Health Benefits for Horses