The Benefits of Flaxseed for Horses: Ground vs. Cold Milled

Flaxseed has gained popularity among equine nutritionists and horse owners alike due to its numerous health benefits. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential nutrients, flaxseed can play a crucial role in promoting overall horse health. However, not all flaxseed products are created equal. Understanding the differences between ground flax and cold milled flax can help you make an informed decision for your equine companion.

Lets deep dive into the nutritional benefits of flaxseed for your equine partner.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseed is one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These fats are essential for maintaining healthy skin, a shiny coat, and reducing inflammation in joints. Omega-3s can also support respiratory health and improve overall immune function.

Digestive Health: The high fiber content in flaxseed aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. It helps regulate bowel movements and can prevent issues such as colic and other digestive disorders.

Weight Management: Flaxseed is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it an excellent addition to the diet of horses that need to gain weight or maintain a healthy weight. It provides energy without excessive sugars, which is especially beneficial for horses prone to laminitis or metabolic disorders. This is a great option to feed during those bitter cold winter months!

Muscle Building: Flaxseed can help build muscle because of its rich protein quality. 

Antioxidant Properties: Flaxseed is rich in lignans, natural antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. This can be particularly beneficial for performance horses or those under stress.

Vitamins & Minerals: Flaxseed is a good source of magnesium, selenium, zinc and vitamins A and E.

We know flaxseed has many benefits, but it is also important to understand what the label is telling you. Typically, your bag of flax will say "ground" or "cold milled" but, what's the difference and why is it important to know?

When it comes to choosing flaxseed, the form in which it is processed can significantly affect its nutritional value and digestibility.

Ground Flax: Ground flaxseed is simply whole flaxseeds that have been crushed or milled. This process makes the nutrients more accessible to the horse. However, if ground flax is not stored properly, it can become rancid quickly, diminishing its nutritional benefits. 

Cold Milled Flax: Cold milling is a more advanced processing technique that involves grinding the flaxseed at lower temperatures to preserve its nutrients, particularly the omega-3 fatty acids. This method prevents the oils from becoming rancid, allowing for a longer shelf life and better nutritional quality. Cold milled flax often has a finer texture, making it easier for horses to digest and absorb the nutrients. While it may be more expensive than ground flax, many owners find the investment worthwhile due to its enhanced benefits.

Incorporating flaxseed into your horse's diet can provide a range of health benefits, from improving coat condition to supporting digestive health. When selecting flaxseed, consider the differences between ground flax and cold milled flax. While both options offer advantages, cold milled flax generally retains more nutrients and offers better digestibility.

At DIME Nutrition & Supply we only utilize and carry cold milled flax. You can order here.