FAQ's - Animals
Q: Why use Flax Seed in Animal Health?
A: Flax seed is increasingly used as an ingredient in feeds or added to a feed for improved animal nutrition as a source of Essential Fatty Acids. The flax seed balances the Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid ratio of the food and promotes skin and coat health. The flax seed also contributes lignans, considered safeguards against tumor formation in pets. Due to its high alpha linolenic acid content, flax seed can eliminate dull, dry coats, and the itching and scratching that can accompany them. Flax seed can also prevent colic in horses.
Q: What are the benefits of flax seed and Essential Fatty Acids in the health of animals:
A: The following may occur:
- Important for growth and development
- Improved immunity against infection
- Increased quantity and quality of milk in lactating animals
- Development of beautiful coats with a lustrous sheen
- Improvement of dandruff and dry, patchy skin
- Improvement of inflammatory conditions
- Increased bone strength
Q: What are the possible symptoms of Essential Fatty Acid deficiency in animals?
A: May be:
- Dry, flaky skin
- Damaged hair or fur
- Soft, brittle or cracked hooves
- Inflammation and arthritic conditions
- Lowered immunity
- Poor healing ability or slow recovery
- Fatigue, lethargy
- Nervous, irritable and temperamental behaviour
A:
Omega-3
Omega-3 is an Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) which cannot be produced by our animals bodies or ours for that matter. It must be consumed in our diets. The Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant properties as well as many other important health benefits. They reduce inflammation and can provide protection against disease, arthritis, skin conditions, depression and other mood-related disorders in animals.
Omega-6
Although Omega-6 is generally classed as pro-inflammatory, paradoxically, GLA, when sourced dietetically, has anti-inflammatory properties. It maintains healthy skin, hair and nails and generally helps to bring about hormonal and emotional balance. Omega-3 and Omega-6 interact with each other so the balance between them is crucial for good health. Together they affect the production of hormonal type messengers called eicosanoids, which have an impact on inflammation in the body and all functions at a cellular level.
Omega-9
Omega-9 also has many preventative qualities, as its main component, oleic acid, helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. It also improves immune function.
Q: Have there been any studies on the effects on animals?
A: The addition of flax seed to livestock rations has focused on two main objectives - the production of nutritionally enhanced human food products and enhanced health, productivity and performance of the animals. Flax seed has been successfully incorporated into the rations of laying hens, resulting in the production of Omega-3 enriched eggs. Researchers have also included flax seed in dairy cattle rations in an attempt to influence milk-fat composition. Research is ongoing to make Omega-3 milk a commercial reality. Flax seed is also attracting attention in the pet food industry as researchers suggest that feeding flax seed may improve pet health in a manner similar to their human companions.
Horses
Health
- Immune-enhancing, reduced allergic reactions and improved inflammatory conditions
- Anecdotally, improved coat, hooves, muscle tone, temperament and energy
- Do not wet pellets, feed in dry form.
Special note on the safety of linseed with horses: Whole linseed has traditionally been boiled before being given to horses to destroy natural cyanide containing substances in the linseed. Crushing the seed also destroys these substances. This is what happens when the seed is pressed and consultation with an independent animal health expert has confirmed that flax seed pellets are safe.
Cattle
Growth and carcass composition
- Significant increases in weight gain and no difference in dry matter intake
- Consistently improved marbling and increased muscle levels of alpha linolenic acid (Omega-3)
- Meat yield may be increased
- Even short term use of flax seed in the diet of cattle can have major long term effects on marbling and carcass quality
Milk
- Increase in milk levels of alpha linolenic acid (Omega-3)
- Conflicting findings on the effect on milk protein
Health
- A positive effect on animal health
- A better response to antibiotics and reduced re-treating rates
- Immune response enhanced
Reproduction
- First service conception rates higher
Links
- NutraIngredients.com - Benefits Of Omega-3 Fed Cows Passed Onto Consumers
- Flax feeding for Cattle
- North Dakota Flax and Livestock report PDF
Feed Flax
Grand Forks Herald, October 07, 2002
by Jerry W. Kram
A major new market for flax could be on the horizon if research recently completed at Kansas State University, Manhattan, is any indication.
Jim Drouillard added 10 percent flax seed as ground flax or flax oil to the receiving ration for 450-pound, stressed, long-haul calves typical of those sent to Kansas feedlots from the southeastern United States. The calves only received the flax-supplemented ration for 35 days, but remarkable hikes in carcass value still are apparent 150 and 200 days later...
Read the Full DSP Health article on MyCattle.com
Pigs
Twelve years ago, research in young growing pigs showed that feeding 5% flax seed was a means of increasing Omega-3 fatty acids in pork. In 1995, researchers at South Dakota State University tested 5%, 10% and 15% flax seed in a corn-soybean meal ration during the final 25 days of finishing. Results showed that the level of Omega-3 fatty acids increased in the final product. A consumer taste panel did not notice any difference in the loin meat or pastry made from the lard, however differences in the bacon were detected when the rations contained more than 5% flax seed.
Research conducted at the University of Manitoba added 5% flax seed to gestation and lactation diets, replacing some of the soybean meal and tallow in the rations. Sows that ate flax seed had higher progesterone levels, therefore improving survival of embryos in the uterus. On a commercial farm, sows that were fed the 5% seed flax ration delivered one more piglet per litter compared to the control group (11.5 vs. 10.4) and produced heavier piglets at birth (1.27 vs. 1.18 kg). The milk from the sows fed flax seed had a higher level of unsaturated fatty acids, resulting in heavier weaning weights (4.6 kg vs. 4.3 kg). In addition, sows fed flax seed lost less weight and maintained more backfat during lactation than sows fed standard rations. As a result, weaning-to-breeding interval decreased by 3 days for sows fed flax seed compared to the control group (4.8 vs. 7.5-8 days).
Growth and Carcass Composition
- Higher alpha linolenic acid and EPA (Omega-3s) in muscle and fat tissues
Reproduction
- Decreased weaning to oestrus interval
- Less likely to abort
- Increased litter size
- Heavier piglets at birth
- Heavier weaning weights
- Reduced pre-weaning mortality
- Sows maintained better condition during lactation
Poultry
Growth and Carcass Composition
- Reduced carcass fat and increased leg weights in broilers
- Higher levels of alpha linolenic acid (Omega-3) in meat
Eggs
- Eggs easily enriched with Omega-3 fatty acids
- Reduced feed intake but greater egg production
Nutritive Value of Omega-3 Eggs from Hens Fed Flax seed Compared to Standard Eggs*
| Omega-3 Egg 60 g large egg |
Standard Egg 60 g large egg |
|
| Calories | 75.0 | 75.0 |
| Protein | 6 grams | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrate | 0.6 grams | 0.6 grams |
| Total Fat | 6.0 grams | 6.0 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams | 2.2 grams |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.35 grams | 0.90 grams |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 750 mg | 800 mg |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 350 mg | 60 mg |
| C18:3 (ALA) | 250 mg | 40 mg |
| C22:6 (DHA) | 100 mg | 20 mg |
| Omega-6:Omega-3 Ratio | 2.6 | 13.0 |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg | 210 mg |
*Adapted from Leaflet NF97-354, INAR, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE.
Q: Where and how do I store them?
A: They need to be kept in a cool dark place that is mouse and rodent proof.
Q: Do You Have Any Feedback On Flax Seed Oil And Fibre Pellets For Animals?
A: Yes - read what Gail Graham and Humphrey, her Shetland pony have to say:
Condition
I have a Shetland pony, Humphrey, who is Insulin Resistant. This is rather like being a diabetic in human terms and cannot be 'cured'; only controlled by diet. Humphrey is also very laminitic prone and I have to constantly monitor his grass intake to prevent him having a laminitic or founder attack.
How Long Before Improvement Noticed?
A couple of weeks after first feeding Humphrey flax pellets for animals he had a new lease of life.
Impact on Health
I feed him flax pellets for animals as they seem to help him but they can never possibly cure him.
What happens if you stop?
I don't.
Q: What is benefit of Goats milk in your soaps?
A: Goats Milk and Palm oil with added southern omega flax seed oil is proving beneficial to animals with dry skin conditions and conditions related to Omega-3 deficiency.
- Goats Milk Soap has a pH balance close to that of the skin.
- Goats Milk has vitamins, minerals, proteins and alpha hydroxy acids that nourish and rejuvenate the skin resulting in mild, non-irritating and highly moisturising soap.
- Goats Milk is easily absorbed into the skin. The caprylic acid found in Goats Milk helps maintain a slightly acid condition, which is conducive to preventing bacterial infection.
- Caprylic acid is anti-fungal as well as exhibiting a high fungicide activity against yeasts.
- Traditionally handcrafted Goats Milk Soap like ours, retains the natural glycerine, giving additional moisturising benefits that will appeal to those dealing with pets with dry skin.
- Goats Milk contains essential amino acids as well as Vitamin A & B and minerals - calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.
Q: How often should I use the soap?
A: Generally when you are washing or refreshing your animal/pet. However should the animal/pet have a skin condition we advise that you leave it on lathered for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse off. Repeat this often until the condition has abated.
FAQ's - Humans
Q: What do you mean by Spray Free?
A: The spray free flax seed we have used to create this range has traceable proof from the 'farm to the fork' and has been verified by a third party - AsureQuality, under their 'Crop Sure Residue Assurance Programme' - this ensures the seed has been untreated with traceability of the product from the field to the seed plant which tests for no contamination from outside elements, and that it has had no chemical applications applied.
A: AsureQuality's expertise spans the entire supply chain as well as New Zealand's key food and agricultural industries. They are the leading provider of food safety and biosecurity services in the Southern Hemisphere with an accreditation portfolio that boasts more than 22 international standards.
Q: How much flax seed oil should I take?
A: We recommend 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil a day (15-30ml).
When first taking flax seed oil, we advise that you start off slowly with a small amount (e.g. 1 teaspoon a day), and build up the amount over time. Excessive amounts of flax seed oil may cause diarrhoea or nausea. Do not take on an empty stomach as this can cause nausea in some people.
If you prefer to take flax seed oil capsules, we recommend 2-5 1000mg capsules, up to 3 times per day for an adult; 1-2 capsules, 2 times a day for a child 3-18 years old.
Be aware that small children can choke on capsules
Q: How should I use the flax seed oil?
A: Flax seed oil delicious mixed into your food and can enhance the flavour because adds creaminess and a delicious nutty flavour.
Try these ideas to instantly improve the nutritive value of your meal:
- Add to salad dressings
- Drizzle over hot vegetables or pasta
- Use to cream mashed potatoes
- Mix into soups or stews (after cooking is finished)
- Add to porridge
- Blend into smoothies
- Stir into yoghurt or cottage cheese with fresh fruit (the sulphur-containing proteins in these dairy foods help the body to utilise oxygen)
- Add into fresh fruit or vegetable juice
- Use as a dipping oil for fresh bread
- Mix into butter for spreading
Flax seed oil can be used on cold, warm and hot foods just prior to serving, but should never be cooked or fried as this destroys their health giving properties and makes them toxic. Never reheat food containing flax seed oil.
A: Once opened, consume within five weeks and store in the fridge. The reason for this is that the oil will start to oxidize having been opened each time for use, letting in oxygen. The oil can be frozen to prolong freshness.
Q: For how long can I keep the oil and fibre?
A: It is shelf-stable for 13 months stored away from direct light and temperatures over 20°C, once opened keep refrigerated and consume within 5 weeks.
Q: Is the packaging recyclable?
A: Bottles, lids, bags and labels are all recyclable.
Q: What are Essential Fatty Acids, and why do I need them?
A: Certain fatty acids are defined as 'essential' because:
- The body cannot make them
- They are required for normal cell, tissue, gland, and organ function
- They must be provided from outside the body, through food or supplements
- Deficiency results in progressive deterioration of health
According to the above definition there are only two Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). One is the Omega-3 EFA alpha linolenic acid, the other is the Omega-6 EFA linoleic acid.
The body converts these 'primary' Omega-3 and Omega-6 EFAs into several 'secondary' fatty acids with important functions in the body. 'Secondary' EFAs of Omega-3 include stearidonic acid (SDA - found in blackcurrant seed oil) and EPA and DHA (found in high fat, cold water fish). 'Secondary' EFAs of Omega-6 include GLA (found in borage seed oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and evening primrose oil), DGLA, and AA (found in meat, eggs, and dairy products, as well as in fish).
Q: What are the functions of Essential Fatty Acids?
A: Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) perform the following functions in the body:
- Energy production - Help with endurance, recovery from exercise and mental stamina.
- Brain Function - Benefits include elevated mood, lifted depression, increased calmness, better handling of stress, less hyperactivity, better focus, better mental processing, faster learning, increased intelligence, better concentration, and improved motor coordination. EFAs are also required for vision.
- Skin, Hair, and Nails - EFAs are required for healthy skin and hair, and are required for normal nail growth. They moisturise skin and prevent dryness.
- Cardiovascular health - Omega-3 fatty acids can decrease many cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, including arrhythmia, high triglycerides, blood pressure and platelet stickiness.
- Insulin Function - Omega-3 helps to improve insulin sensitivity in diabetics.
- Weight Management - EFAs help reduce fat production in the body. They also increase fat burning and heat production in the body, and shift the body from burning glucose to burning fats.
- Digestion - EFAs improve gut integrity, decrease gut inflammation, and decrease 'leaky gut' that can lead to allergies.
- Allergies - Omega-3 EFAs are required in the structure of the membranes that surround each cell and oganelle in the body. Lack of Omega-3 EFAs causes 'leaky' membranes that allow substances which ought not, to pass in and out of the cell, which can cause allergies, eczema, skin conditions, asthma etc.
- Inflammation - Omega-3 fats reduce inflammation
- Immune System - Omega-3 fats help to regulate the immune system and can help with both low immunity and an over response of the immune system (autoimmunity).
- Injury - EFAs speed the healing of injuries.
- Bone Minerals - Omega-3 fats improve bone mineral retention, thereby inhibiting the development of osteoporosis.
- Stress - EFAs improve the stress response. People report feeling calmer, getting stressed less easily, dealing with stressful situations more calmly, and losing their temper less often. EFAs improve sleep in some people.
- Hormones - EFAs can improve hormone function.
- Reproduction - EFAs are required for sperm formation, the female cycle, and pregnancy.
Q: What happens when we don't get enough Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)?
A: No cell, tissue, gland, or organ can function normally without EFAs. According to Udo Erasmus, one of the pioneers promoting the importance of EFAs to human nutrition, symptoms of deficiency include:
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Low energy levels
- Brittle hair and hair loss
- Poor nail growth
- Deterioration of liver and kidneys
- Behavioural changes due to brain deterioration
- Imbalanced immune system, resulting in more infections, poorer wound healing, and increased cancer
- Digestion problems, inflammation, bloating, allergies, autoimmune conditions
- Bone mineral loss
- Reproductive failure in males and females
- Retarded growth of children
- Tingling in arms and legs due to nerve deterioration
- Vision and learning problems
- Insulin resistance
- Increased risk of overweight
- Increased cancer risk
- Increased cardiovascular risk
- Decreased ability to cope with stress
- In mental illness, increased symptoms
- Decreased lung function
- Decreased tissue oxygenation