As a continuation of our herb and supplement series, here is more on supplements in our pets food or what/we can add to their diet:

ENZYMES
Found in food that is not cooked past 118 degrees. Enzymes are used for a variety of functions in the pet's body. Cellular processes, digestion and absorption of dietary nutrients are dependent upon enzymes to mention a few.

Various stressors, such as illness, stress, allergies, food intolerance, age, and medications, can decrease gastrointestinal function. This results in poor digestion and absorption of the nutrients in the diet. Enzymes aid in the digestion and the breakdown of food and the absorption of nutrition.

There are different types of enzymes such as Bromelain and Papain. Bromelain has been useful in aiding recovery from surgery and injuries as well as to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Papain has been shown to be as effective as aspirin as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent in a variety of medical conditions.

Safety Issues:
Proteolytic enzymes--Papain and Bromelain are the respective names for the proteolytic enzymes--and are believed to be quite safe, although there are some concerns that they might further damage the exposed tissue in an a ulcer. For this reason, they are not recommended for pets with gastrointestinal ulcerative disease.

Bromelain can thin blood to some extent and should not be combined with drugs that thin the blood without vet supervision.

Foods we carry in our store that contain Enzymes: Natures Variety and Great Life kibble. Frozen Raw: Natures Variety, Columbia River and Three Meadows.

Supplements we carry with Enzymes: Animal Essentials and OptaGest.

CHICORY ROOT (Cichorium intybus)

Chicory root sound familiar? It has been used in human food for years, as a coffee substitute. Now it is being used in pet food, where the claim is that it can help to improve health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal system.

Chicory contains inulin, a form of dietary fiber, which although itself is indigestible, contains substances called oligosaccharides that are thought to promote the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. Because of this, it helps to improve digestion and decrease disease, and strengthen the immune system.

Foods we carry in our store that contain Chicory Root: Dry Foods--Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover's Soul, Solid Gold, Wellness, Taste Of The Wild, Dogswell, Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul; Blue Buffalo (does not include Wilderness Line); Canidae and Felidae.


Kristina
 

Back to Library