Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Dr. Getty
Hi Jennifer,
What I believe you are referring to is the incorrect information that I see on the web claiming that flaxseeds are high in goitrogens -- substances that can harm the thyroid gland. Flaxseeds are not high in goitrogens and are very safe to feed.
Insulin resistance has to do with the overproduction of insulin from the pancreas generally due to too much body fat. It can also be complicated by interactions with cortisol (such as in the case of Cushings).
Flaxseed meal is a nutritious food and most horses can benefit from it. An overweight horse can still have some, but too much will provide more calories than necessary, since it is concentrated in fat.
Hope this helps clarify things for you.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 