What are fatty acids and why are they important?

Fatty acids are essential to maintaining a wide range of physiological functions, including supporting immune function, inflammatory response as well as fertility across all species, including ourselves.

The polyunsaturated group of fatty acids are particularly important and are split into two types: Omega-3 and Omega-6. Most purchased pigeon feeds will be typically high in Omega-6 and potentially deficient in Omega-3 due to the ingredients selected to meet other nutritional requirements; with most diets containing cereal grains, seeds and corns which are rich in Omega-6.

When Omega-3 and Omega-6 are well balanced, it allows the body to help fight off challenges and infections by supporting the immune system, and reducing the negative impacts of the inflammatory response. Short chain Omega-3 fatty acids such as Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) is found in flaxseed/linseed, walnuts and other plant derived Omega-3 sources. However, when ALA is provided in the diet, it first needs to be converted into long chain fatty acids Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) before it can be utilised by the bird. These long chain fatty acids deliver an array of health benefits. The conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA requires energy and research has shown, the process can be inefficient as not all of it is converted to EPA and DHA, wasting valuable resources.

Other sources of Omega-3 such as fish oil naturally contains high levels of EPA and DHA, these are readily available digestible energy sources so the bird doesn’t need to further convert it to utilise. You can source various fish oils on the market, such as salmon oil and cod liver oil, which can provide the EPA and DHA needed to balance diets and gain the full benefits of Omega-3 supplementation.

What health benefits are seen from supplementing EPA and DHA?

High levels of Omega-6 in the bird’s diet, when metabolised, can induce the inflammatory processes, affecting health, fertility and condition. Supplementing with an EPA and DHA source helps to readdress the Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio in the diet, consequently promoting the anti-inflammatory process, which supports your pigeon’s health and performance.

Further benefits of EPA and DHA supplementation:

• Helps your pigeon maintain necessary energy required for growth and performance.
  
• Supports pigeon’s natural defence and immunity.
  
• Helps pigeons to maintain feather condition and shine.
  
• Well documented to support fertility and chick/squab quality
• Shown to help bone strength and density.