Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Flaxseed and Metabolizable Protein on Reproduction in Mares and Ewes
Abstract
Two experiments evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation on maternal
reproductive parameters. In Experiment 1, 16 mares were assigned to dietary treatments: control,
flaxseed, or linseed meal for 16 wk. Blood samples were analyzed for progesterone (P4), serum
chemistry panel values, and fatty acids. Flaxseed supplementation increased (P < 0.01) alphalinolenic
acid concentration, but treatment had no other effects. In Experiment 2, 45 multiparous
ewes were allotted to dietary levels of metabolizable protein (MP): 60% (MP60), 80% (MP80),
or 100% (MP100) from d 100 to d 130 of gestation. At d 130 ewes were slaughtered and tissues
harvested. There was a day x fetal number interaction for P4, estradiol 17β, and thyroxine (T4)
along with a treatment x fetal number interaction for T4. There was a day effect for cortisol and
triiodothryonine. Results indicate dietary supplementation alters maternal parameters including
hormones and fatty acids.