Did you know that Essential Fatty Acids are important to your horse’s diet? Most people will recognize Essential Fatty Acids by the terms Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats. Not only are these two Essential Fatty Acids important in a human diet, horses reap the benefit of a diet supplemented with these as well. Typical equine diets lack Essential Fatty Acids because most grains are highly processed, which destroys or damages the natural fatty acid content.
While most of the fats they need can be synthesized in the body, a horse cannot synthesize Essential Fatty Acids and must obtain them through food. The two types of fatty acids that are not synthesized in the body are Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A,D,E and K. A deficiency in these two Essential Fatty Acids can lead to problems with the liver and kidneys, decreased immune system, and dryness of the skin. There are many health benefits to Essential Fatty Acids which support the brain, joints, digestive, reproductive and pulmonary systems as well as contributing to healthy skin and hooves. As an added bonus, fats generate less internal heat during digestion which keeps horse’s cooler.
The amount of Essential Fatty Acids that should be in an equine diet will depend on the horse itself. Horses with higher energy requirements such as those pregnant or lactating, growing horses, performance horses and those recovering from surgery or injury will require more Essential Fatty Acids in their diet than an Easy Keeper.
Now that you understand the importance of Essential Fatty Acids, you need to know where to find them. Omega-6’s are found in leafy greens, seeds, nuts, grains and vegetable oils (corn, safflower, soybean, cottonseed, sesame, and sunflower). Omega-3’s can be found in flaxseed, walnuts, and oils (flaxseed, canola, soybean, walnut, and wheat germ). Many people will recognize fish oils as a source of Omega-3’s but they are not a good choice in an equine diet as they are high in other types of fats and have none of the fiber necessary for digestion. Omega-3’s derived from plants are the best version for an equine diet. One of the best sources of Essential Fatty Acid Omega-3’s is flaxseed oil which contains 53-62% of Omega-3’s.
Is your horse getting enough Essential Fatty Acids in their diet? If not, you may need to consider accompanying their feed with a high fat supplement. Our flagship product, RevolutionEQ, has over 36% fat from natural, plant-based oils, making it a perfect top dress to use daily. In addition to a balanced diet, we guarantee that you will see results in 30 days or send your money back.
