I’m sure many of you are feeding some of the seeds I’m talking about in this video to improve your horse’s coat or to help put on condition. (I prefer to feed the seed rather than the oil.) I also show you different ways to feed them. Many riders may benefit from adding some of these to their diets too.
🐎Linseed
Linseed is one of the oldest crops. It is high in Omega 3 fatty acids which needs to be sourced through the diet. It contains about 42% fat and 18% protein as well as other vitamins and minerals as well as fiber. This fiber helps with the bacteria in the gut. When mixed with water it forms a slurry which is useful for a horse with ulcers. When crushed it may help with sand. Linseed comes from the same family a psyllium. People are concerned about arsenic levels but I spent a lot of time with a doctor who studied Linseed and found that in general it isn’t high in arsenic, particularly in Australia.
🐎Chia Seeds
Chia is an ancient super food and is full of nutrients. It also contains fiber that helps with the good gut bacteria. It is an antioxidant and is high in Omega 3 as well as minerals that support bone health. It is also high in magnesium.
🐎French White Millet
Millet is good for the coat and hooves. It is high in fiber which supports the horses gut bacteria. It also contains many micronutrients. It has antioxidant properties and is being studied for its benefits on cancer. It may support bone health.
🐎Hemp seeds
Hemp is also high in Omega 3 fatty acids as well as magnesium. It contains soluble and in soluble fibers which support the horse’s gut microbiome. It is used to support the horse’s coat, particularly if it is dry or itchy.
🐎Black Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds have often been fed for the coat. They are high in Omega 6 fatty acids so if you horse is getting grain it would be good to add some of the other seeds that are high in Omega 3’s. Sunflower seeds are about 40 to 50% oil. They may be helpful with the immune system and for inflammation. I like to put my seeds in a slow cooker over night, fully covered with water. In the morning I add herbs such as rosehips.
