Summary
This controlled trial evaluated the effects of maternal dietary supplementation with fish oil or flaxseed during late gestation and early lactation on fatty acid profiles in mare milk and neonatal foal plasma. Foals born to mares supplemented with fish oil from day 310 of gestation showed significantly elevated plasma DHA concentrations at birth prior to nursing, suggesting transplacental transfer of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. No treatment-related differences in DHA were observed in mare plasma or milk, though flaxseed supplementation increased certain intermediate metabolites in mare plasma.
Regional applicability
The findings may be relevant to UK equine producers seeking to optimise neonatal foal health through maternal nutrition, though the study was conducted in a North American context with specific management protocols. UK stud farms and breeders could consider similar fish oil supplementation strategies during late gestation, subject to local feed regulations and veterinary guidance.
Key measures
Plasma and milk fatty acid composition (proportions of DHA, EPA, alpha-linolenic acid, and 20:3 n-6) measured via gas chromatography at pre-supplementation baseline, days 0, 5, and 30 post-partum in mares and foals
Outcomes reported
The study measured fatty acid composition in mare plasma, mare milk, and foal plasma at multiple time points post-partum using gas chromatography. Foals born to fish oil-supplemented mares exhibited elevated plasma docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) at birth compared to control foals.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.