A while ago I was asked to write a review about Chia De Garcia Seeds, having a ex racer whom I needed to put weight on and improve condition I thought this would be great.
About the seeds:
Chia facilitates natural well-being and can supplement the horse’s daily feed. Chia seeds contain more omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an ideal balance than any other plant product. Chia is rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, E) and has a high protein content. Chia easily gels and forms a protective film in the intestines that slows carbohydrate absorption, balances blood sugar levels and advances the healing of gastric ulcers. Chia is perfect for sensitive horses that suffer from equine metabolic syndrome, are overweight or experience intestinal problems. The absorbing properties of chia help ensure a perfect balance of fluid and electrolytes. Its high level of dietary fibre supports optimal intestinal functioning – Chia can thus be used to clear the bowels from sand. Chia lubricates the horse’s skin, which increases its resistance to allergies, alleviates itching and promotes the growth of strong hooves and shining, healthy horse hair. Chia is rich in antioxidants and magnesium, which helps to calm stress-sensitive horses and balances the mare’s estrous cycle. It is also ideal for pregnant mares and for horses that suffer from damaged joints or connective tissue. Chia is perfect for dogs too.
I found these to be very helpful with gaining condition on Legacy, with it helping to optimize her digestive tract. When I was going through the struggles of trying to find her a permanent home she didn't have the best poos, they weren't cow like but they weren't far off, this would also happen when she became stress or unsure. After finding her somewhere decent and giving her these seeds her poos have now become healthy and definitely more horse like.
The main difference I seen in her apart from condition from using these seeds would be her coat, skin and hoof condition's. She now has a great shine in her coat, old scars have started to slightly heal and when I first got her she was able to wear just the two front shoes for a time and then the next time the farrier came she would have to have a set of all four, she is now able to just have a front set and the back feet look after themselves pretty much. Her mane and tail are also in much better condition, they aren't frizzing up as much and are growing healthily.
A 2kg bag lasted just over a month varying portions. For Legacys size of 500kg she was given 50g of seeds at the beginning of adding the seeds into her feed for the first week and then I increased it up to 75g daily after this. It was split into 2 meals, her breakfast and evening tea.
I found these great as they are so small they were easily eaten and she wouldn't leave them behind.
Below are the before and after pictures of Legacy, as you can see she's got some added top line (although I know the saddle doesn't help) and her bum has become a lot more rounded on the top.
These specific Chia seeds are available through Equinutritive and the prices start at £18.50 for a 1KG bag, and range up to £108.50 for a 9KG bag. The seeds are here, you can also contact the company through their Twitter or Facebook.
*This product was supplied to be for free but all opinions within the review are my own from personal experiences.
