Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have a wide range of beneficial effects on the organism, including horses. The intake of these fatty acids is recommended for a number of reasons.
Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), one of the plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, is essential for the horse. While rapeseed oil and soya oil contain around 7 to 10% ALA, linseed oil contains up to 60% ALA (similarly for chia oil). Only fish oils are richer still in omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, these animal-based omega-3 fatty acids are already biologically active, whereas plant-based omega-3 fatty acids first have to be elongated or converted in the body into their long-chain and actually biologically active conversion products (metabolites) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
In doing so, they are in direct competition with linoleic acid (LA), an omega-6 fatty acid. This is found mainly in safflower oil, sunflower oil, corn germ oil and soya oil. This is because, in metabolism, both ALA and LA are elongated or converted with the help of the same enzymes.
The body needs both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but the conversion of LA can even produce metabolites that promote inflammation. The correct ratio is therefore particularly important for horses whose organism has fallen out of balance. This does not solely require a high intake of oil rich in omega-3. Rather, it is also important that feed rich in omega-6, such as certain plant oils (see above), maize and other grains, is reduced.