We discuss the state of Thoroughbreds and the need to bring them back into the sport horse industry; in Tiggipedia we discuss the differences between flax and chia; Critter Nutrition focuses on circulation for horses in winter; and in Coffee Klatch Jenn asks Tigger and Pati their go-to organization tools for life on the road.
Listen in…
Guests and Links for Episode 102:
- Link to Sound File for Sight Impaired: Click Here
- Co-Hosts: Tigger Montague from BioStarUS and Pati Pierucci from from Pierucci Dressage
- Link: Chia vs. Flax
- Link: Circulation for horses
- Ask Hedwig Facebook
Flax seeds have been fed to horses for literally hundreds of years. It is mentioned as a food for horses in many of the re-printed equine veterinary books of the mid-1800s. Flax provides high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and very low amounts of omega-6, with a total ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 of 3:1. As for macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, flax seed contains 40% fat, 30% fiber, 20% protein and small amounts of B1, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.
Both flax and chia are excellent sources of omega-3, but chia seeds have some noticeable additional benefits. Chia is a high mucilage seed that helps slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for easy keepers and metabolic horses. The mucilage in chia also can replace products like psyllium to help remove sand from the GI tract. Chia also provides the amino acid proline, which is a major constituent of collagen; this is particularly important for horses with connective tissue challenges or weakness.
At Healthy Critters Radio, we are hopeless animal lovers who want to share our experience and knowledge with you, for the betterment of your animals’ lives. We focus on health, nutrition, behavior, and ideas for overall well-being and happiness. Twice a month, we bring you guest experts, advice, commentary, and a lot of fun and laughter! If there is ever a topic you’d like for us to cover, let us know on our contact page!
