They are native to Brazil’s Amazon. Being a superfood, acai berries can provide tons of benefits to your dog. For starters, superfoods are basically foods that are thought to offer maximum nutritional benefits and thus great for physical and emotional health. They can also provide a significant health boost to our dogs. Here is how your dog can benefit from acai fruit:
Giving your dog fruits can help strengthen his immune system, aid digestion, improve his coat, and reduce inflammation.
Acerola cherry contains huge amounts of vitamin C for your dog and cats. The acerola fruit comes from Yucatan, a mexican peninsula. It is known to be one of the richtest Vitamin C plants. 100g contain 1.700 to 2.100 mg of vitamin C.This 34 - 42 times as much as the vitamin C content of an orange.
Vitamin C is an important antioxidant. It scavenges potentially harmful free radicals in the body and can help reduce inflammation and cognitive aging. Dogs can actually synthesize vitamin C on their own in their livers, but in some cases supplementation may offer health benefits.
It is a highly concentrated nutrient dense plant. It assists dogs and cats with areas like digestion, urinary, skeletal, and glandular systems. It has been studied for its oxidative impact as being a powerful antioxidant. It contains insoluble fiber, calcium, potassium, and trace minerals, carotene, Vitamins B and K. Another great source of chlorophyll. Alfalfa also is a plant based protein. Many pet food companies incorporate alfalfa in raw and dry pet food.
A great source of Vitamins A and C and fiber aiding digestion. Apple has quercetin, iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, and Vitamin E to name a few. Some people feed small slices of apple as a treat as it is naturally sweet, low in protein and calories.
Ashwagandha is considered to be an adaptogen. The value is that it helps the body adapt to stress and assists the body with specifically what your body needs at the time. In essence, it normalizes the body's response to negative toxins from air, water, food, medications. It can also be from excessive fear, separation, and even pain can cause unwanted, chronic stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha is the number one supplement taken by humans globally.
It is a healthy source of protein, fiber which aids digestion. It can also help cats with fur balls. It is packed with amino acid which support building blocks in the body. It is known for repair of muscles, blood vessels and even bone marrow. It is a great source of Vitamin A and C. It contains minerals such as magnesium which aids in energy. It is another fiber source both soluble and insoluble. IT is best known for its dense amount of calcium important for bone health.
Black pepper contains an extract called piperine (Piper nigrum L).”. This extract is believed to greatly increase your dog’s gastrointestinal absorption of many nutrients (such as vitamins C, B6, beta carotene, amino acids, and herbs like curcumin/turmeric). It is believed to make them more bioavailable to the pet. Research supports:
A super food – unsurprisingly, they’re also good for your dog and cats. All the antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals blueberries boast provide the same benefits for your dog’s body that they give yours. They are low in fat and high in vitamin A, C, potassium, and fiber. Antioxidants play a role in fighting conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Blueberries have more antioxidants than most fruits in the world. Blueberries are packed with the antioxidant pigment Anthocyanin. These antioxidants in blueberries neutralize free radicals which can damage cells and tissues. Tissue damage can, in turn, lead to cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer. The blue-red pigments found in blueberries (Anthocyanins), improve the integrity of support structures in the veins and entire vascular system. Anthocyanins have been shown to enhance the effects of vitamin C and improve capillary integrity. Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as dementia. They improve night vision. Blueberries contain another antioxidant compound called ellagic acid, which blocks metabolic pathways that can lead to cancer. They are high in the soluble fiber pectin, which has been shown to lower cholesterol and to prevent bile acid from being transformed into a potentially cancer-causing form. Blueberries also promote urinary tract health. Blueberries contain the same compounds found in cranberries that help prevent or eliminate urinary tract infections. It is rich in quercetin. Quercetin is a natural solution existing in the peel of many fruits and vegetables. It is a superfood flavonoid (discovered in the 1930’s). Flavonoids are a plant-based compound with powerful antioxidant properties such as anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine characteristics! We have all seen these symptoms such as paw licking/chewing, ear infections, watery eyes, itchy skin, and a lot of scratching. It also has been studied as an addition in cancer prevention therapies. This superfood is:
Cayenne pepper is produced from the capsicum herb and has been used for a variety of ailments including heartburn, delirium, tremors, gout, paralysis, fever and hemorrhoids. Perhaps the greatest natural stimulant known, Cayenne has been called the single greatest “driver” of other herbs. No other herb is quite in this class making it a must for all formulas. Simply said, when you need to get an herb to any location in the body cayenne reigns supreme. The uses of cayenne are so numerous that it has been claimed “the single greatest herb.” Some of the common uses are anal problems (to include hemorrhoids), heart attack, toothache, external bleeding, wounds of all types, and clearing the mucous membranes. Cayenne is an anti-inflammatory agent and may even help relieve allergies. Cayenne is a well-known digestive aid. It stimulates the digestive tract, increasing the flow of enzyme production and gastric juices. This aids the body’s ability to metabolize food (and toxins). Cayenne pepper is also helpful for relieving intestinal gas. It stimulates intestinal peristaltic motion, aiding in both assimilation and elimination.
Chlorella are single-celled, freshwater green microalgae that thrive in the warmth of sunlight. Chlorella has been linked to a variety of potential health benefits, including as an immune booster, gastrointestinal aid and detoxifier. Chlorella is rich in the powerful detoxifier chlorophyll. Chlorophyll helps to cleanse all the cells of the body, fight infection, heal wounds, build the immune system and detoxify all systems, particularly the liver and the digestive system. It also promotes digestive health – which is why many dogs with acute digestive problems tend to go for the grass. It has a double action in both treating and preventing bad breath. Chlorophyll can eliminate odors in the mouth. It also improves digestion, often a cause of bad breath in dogs with healthy teeth and gums. Chlorophyll can increase oxygen utilization within your pet’s body. It also breaks down calcium oxalate stones in the bladder. Importantly, chlorophyll reduces the ability of carcinogens to bind with DNA in the liver and other organs. Dr. Karen Becker, holistic veterinarian, says chlorophyll is a natural detoxifying agent that can help with toxic buildup from perpetrators like pesticides and herbicides, vaccinations, unhealthy pet food chemical pest preventatives including those for fleas, ticks and heartworm and just plain old environmental pollution. After repeated exposure of these kinds of toxins, chemicals and heavy metals, your pet’s organs will start to wear out from overload. And then you’ll see the symptoms and chronic conditions start to appear, she says. It also has a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, and high levels of protein.
It is used to help a dog bothered with an upset stomach. Strong in the vitamin category of Vitamin A, C, potassium, and zinc. It is known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. It contains many of the B vitamins as well as Vitamin K.
A longtime favorite spice from the dried bark of certain tropical trees. It contains calcium, iron, vitamins C and K, and manganese. Cinnamon does not contain measurable amounts of oxalate or purines – this means that dogs and cats with kidney and bladder stones can have cinnamon in their diet. Benefits of cinnamon include:
Cranberries have many health benefits for dogs. Canine urinary tract infections can be serious, and cranberry juice can work to control and/or prevent urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice lowers the pH of the urine, making it more acidic. This action makes it a hostile environment for pH sensitive bacteria. Cranberries contain at least two agents that act as bacterial inhibitors. Consequently, many medications for urinary tract infections work in the same manner. Cranberries should not be a replacement for veterinary care, or antibiotic therapy. They can be used to compliment each other though. Many veterinarians will suggest cranberries for dogs and cats as a preventative if they have been under considerable stress, such as a new rescue, or one that has been in a stressful situation. Cranberries are rich in vitamins including A, B1, B2, C, and many nutrients. They are full of minerals and antioxidants that fights free radicals (toxins) in the body; a natural acidifier that contributes to urinary tract health, preventing bacterial infection in the urinary tract; and aid against the formation of struvite crystals in the bladder and urethra. It is rich in quercetin (see Blueberry).
Cumin is an amazing spice used for robust warm, rich flavors that has many nutritional benefits. Cumin is rich in iron and has considerable amount of vitamin C, which are essential for a healthy immune system and is believed to keep infections from forming or becoming worse. Thus, it boosts the immune system, and cumin historically is felt to be beneficial for some of the more serious diseases due to immune boost properties for overall health. It is extremely good for digestion and related problems. Thymol, a compound present in cumin, which stimulates the glands that secrete acids, bile and enzymes responsible for complete digestion of the food in the stomach and the intestines. Cumin is also Carminative, which means that it helps relieve gas troubles and thereby improves digestion and appetite. Due to its essential oils, magnesium, and natural sodium content, cumin promotes digestion. Cumin has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Because of its essential oils, it has been believed to have an anti-congestive effect as well as a disinfectant effect. Cumin has remarkable amount of calcium (more than 900 mg per 100 grams) and is very rich in iron (more than 66 mg. in every 100 grams). Vitamin A is also a key component. The essential oils present in cumin have disinfectant and antifungal properties. It has detoxifying properties as well. Cumin comes from the cumin plant, which happens to be a member of the parsley family. Some people use cumin as an additional way to give their senior dogs a boost of energy or to enhance their immune systems. Cumin appears to provide a number of potential health benefits. It contains anti-glycation agents, antioxidants, and anti-osteoporotic, and much more. In studies with diabetic rats, cumin extract was more effective at reducing blood glucose and AGE production than glibenclamide, an anti-diabetic drug. Less is better and brings health contribution.
Ground flax seed contains flaxseed oil, which is one of the richest sources of the essential Omega 3 fatty acids (linolenic acid). Flax is a good source of essential amino acids and contains all the essential vitamins and minerals required by dogs and cats. Flax aids in its anti-inflammatory effect and has been known to help arthritis and has immune boosting properties. Flax seed is also a great fiber source that aids in digestion. Also an excellent source of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat.
Ginger is full of antioxidants. It can help dogs with inflammation, stiff joints, and arthritis conditions. It may also improve digestion. Ginger is a spice that promotes digestive health, stimulates the immune system and is known to help with arthritis. Ginger’s function as a digestive aid for stomach upset and nausea is probably the best known benefit. According to materials written by Steve Marsden, DVM, and Shawn Messonnier, DVM, and Cheryl Yuill, DVM, in PetCareNaturally.com, ginger may play a role in relieving or preventing bloat in dogs due to its ability to stimulate movement in the stomach and accelerate emptying of the stomach. It is a natural anti-inflammatory. Ginger has even shown benefits as an aid with cancer in some studies. There have even been studies of effective treatment of heartworm disease with ginger therapy. Ginger is an amazing anti-flatulent relieving gas and bloating in humans and in pets.
Kelp is a recognized food supplement for humans. Now vets and advocates of an holistic approach to pet health recommend it for dogs and other animals. This seaweed is rich in natural salts and minerals like iodine, and it has a number of benefits for your pet’s health. Seaweed is rich in nutrients and trace minerals and can contain sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus; the micronutrients include iodine, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, molybdenum, fluoride, manganese, boron, nickel and cobalt.
Kelp is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals (including iodine). It is a good antioxidant and has been thought to be beneficial in helping to protect against cancer.
It benefits and nourishes skin and fur and is loaded with vitamins and minerals and essential amino acids and natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It really boosts the pet’s immune system. Many believe that it boosts immune for help with serious conditions, obesity, digestive issues, diabetes, arthritis, and seizures. It is an energy booster. Vitamins like A, potassium, Vitamin C, iron and calcium are in Moringa leaf. It aids the nervous system by helping dogs and cats feel good emotionally. Magnesium aids from depression. It also builds the pet’s muscles. It strengthens joints and muscles. It helps stimulate nursing pet’s milk, and it helps senior pets with all of the above.
Many cultures have used mushrooms for centuries for health benefits. This white button mushroom have been used as a plant detoxifier especially in the digestive track. Loaded with vitamins like potassium, selenium, zinc, copper, lysine, and B vitamins, it serves to improve intestinal health. Many cultures believe mushrooms can act as a tool against cancer. They have a history as being antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory. Mushrooms have been used to support your pet’s immune system even helping with anti-fatigue properties.
Mushrooms: Research has found results linked to improving digestion, antibacterial properties, and even lowering blood sugar. It has been effective in combination with other mushrooms to often have a diuretic effect. Much research has been linked to use with cancer conditions and success inhibiting tumor growth.
It has been used in the natural remedy arena for parasite elimination because of the amino acid cucurbitin. IT is naturally high in fiber and can help with a mild case of loose stool as well with mild constipation due to the soluble fiber. The Omega Fatty Acids are great for aiding skin health, joint health, and helping the heart and brain. It has anti-inflammatory properties which has served the area of anal glands and its complications. It’s magnesium component often helps with seasonal allergies. By helping the digestion tract, pumpkin seed has been successfully used to help decrease intestinal inflammation. The oils in pumpkin seed promotes urinary health.
An excellent source of fiber, phytonutrients, omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, spinach is naturally packed with antioxidants and has many health benefits. It’s high in iron (with almost twice as much of it as most other sources). Spinach is a particularly good option for your dog since it helps fend off inflammatory and cardiovascular issues, along with illnesses.
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins and beta-carotene. They provide phytochemicals and carotenoids; sources of antioxidant agents providing natural protection against free radicals. It adds a great flavor as well and an excellent fiber source. They are used for anti-aging, antioxidants with their wealth of vitamins, and in helping body overall health and conditions. They also have Vitamin A, C, B6, and the minerals manganese, copper, and iron. They are clearly a superfood. Their high fiber aids occasional loose stools.
Curcumin is the compound in turmeric, meaning it's the most active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin is a very popular spice that has found its way into dog foods, supplements, and treats thanks to its extensive list of therapeutic uses. Turmeric may help boost a dog’s cardiovascular health, improve memory, protect against anemia, cancer, arthritis, irritable bowel issues, strokes, and even help overweight dogs and their metabolism when trying to lose weight. Adding turmeric to your pet’s diet can help boost immune , fight inflammation, aid digestion, kill dangerous parasites, and boost mood.
It is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and carotene. Those contribute to healthy tissue with blood and muscles. Cats love it as Cat Grass and Wheat Grass are the same plant. It is rich in Vitamin A, C and E. It has iron, magnesium, calcium, and amino acids. The vitamins E and B strengthen the immune system. The liver is cleansed with its Folic Acid as well as blood vessel health. *** Always feel free to do additional research and consult with your veterinarian.