Flax seeds might conjure images of hippies snacking on granola-crunching hippies or ladies wearing yoga pants, but these tiny brown seeds contain plenty of goodness that is beneficial to many. Called Linum usitatissimum in scientific parlance, flax seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and other vital nutrients – they have long been part of healthy diets across cultures worldwide for centuries!
Addition of flax seeds to a hen’s diet can improve egg nutrition and increase egg size, but too many could lead to poor quality eggs with fishy flavors and dark yolks due to an excess of fatty acids interfering with vitamin D absorption needed for yolk coloration.
Flaxseed should comprise 5-10% of a chicken’s daily diet for optimal performance. This figure may need to be adjusted depending on age and size, so consult a poultry nutritionist in order to establish optimal feeding amounts for your flock.
Flax seeds should never be fed whole to chickens as they can become easily choked on. Instead, grounding into meal is required in order for them to digest properly and should only be given as treats once chicks reach 2-3 weeks old and ground into meal. Too many flax seeds can lead to digestive issues including diarrhea and loose droppings so care must be taken not overindulge them.
Linseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and other essential vitamins and antioxidants, including fibre and antioxidants that aid digestion and boost immunity. Linseed may help protect against heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure as well as reduce inflammation in the intestines and colon. In addition, it may improve skin health while slowing sun damage effects while simultaneously lowering cholesterol levels – all crucial components for fighting aging effectively!
Other foods rich in omega-3s include walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seed, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, soybeans and spinach. You can add various herbs to your meals in order to increase their nutritional value further or choose an omega-3 supplement (although first speaking to your GP is advised before doing so).
Flaxseeds are generally safe for human consumption, although they may interact with certain medications. Before eating flaxseeds it is advised that you speak to a GP or medical professional prior to consumption as they could aggravate existing bowel obstruction or narrowed esophageal problems. Furthermore, pregnant women and those suffering from endometriosis, breast or ovarian cancer or bleeding esophagus/stomach conditions should avoid them since flaxseeds act like estrogen in the body causing bleeding esophagus/stomach.
Avoid feeding raw beans to chickens as these contain harmful lectins; cooked versions should be safe to consume, however. Furthermore, nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes, potatoes and peppers contain alkaloids which could prove hazardous for the poultry’s health.