Whole Wheat Flax Seed & Pet Birds

Flax produces blue flowers above brown stalks when grown and is often found on prairies. Flax seed has a number of nutrients, which are beneficial not only to humans, but to pet birds as well. With a nut-like taste, dry whole wheat flax seed is sometimes replaced by flax seed oil. Yet, dry flax seed contains a higher nutritional value than flax seed oil. When given in small daily amounts to your bird, whole wheat flax seed can assist your bird in achieving optimal health.

  1. Omega 3 and 6

    • A diet high in Omega 6 fatty acids and low in Omega 3 fatty acids can lead to blood clotting problems, heart disease and artery trouble in birds. A balance between Omega 6 fatty acids and Omega 3 essential fatty acids in the diet is necessary for good bird health. Omega 3s counteract the effects of the Omega 6 fatty acids and improve conditions such as allergies, cancer and hormonal functions. Omega 6 fatty acids exist in common bird foods, including sunflower seeds, soybeans and safflower seeds. Omega 3 essential fatty acids exist in whole wheat flax seeds.

    Benefits

    • Not only does whole wheat flax seed diminish the destructive effects of Omega 6 fatty acids, but it also contains proteins, phytochemicals, fiber and minerals. The phytochemical lignan in flax seeds helps support the immune system of your bird, with anti-cancer, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial components. Consequently, whole wheat flax seed has a variety of benefits for your bird, though it is not without its issues.

    Issues

    • Flax seed contain cyanogens. Cyanogen is a toxic gas made from a chemical compound that has a foul odor . The primary issue concerning cyanogens is that they sometimes prevent the thyroid from utilizing iodine. Therefore, large amount of flax seed provided to your bird on a consistent basis can create health problems over time. Additionally, flax seed is not recommended for all pet birds. For example, canaries and parrots are suitable flax seed recipients, while cockatoos should be placed on a hook-bill bird diet containing sunflower seeds, monkey biscuits, eggs and supplements.

    Supplement

    • Flax seed should be given to your bird in small amounts as part of a regular diet regimen. Consult your veterinarian to ensure that flax seed is appropriate for your type of pet bird before feeding flax seed to your bird. If flax seed is appropriate, the diet should also include fruits, grains, vegetables and a variety of other seeds. Depending upon your preference, birds can consume flax seeds every day, which allows the nutrients and benefits of the flax seeds to remain consistently present in the bird̵7;s system.