Ofi Canine Supplement

Take our our 90 day Challenge and see for yourself just how healthy your Ofi can be!

Oh and as part of our Earth Friendly approach, you can order your Ofi in a reusable container! Refill’s come in a bio-degradable Kraft Style bag! Setting a first in the industry, that’s Ofi!

Ofi is also proud to donate a portion of every proceed to our favorite dog rescue, Oregon Dog Rescue!
If you would like a portion of Your order to be donated to YOUR Favorite Dog Rescue , let us know!

Ofi’s Natural Ingrediants

Hawthorn Berry

<sup>Benefits: It’s well known Hawthorn has been widely used for centuries for promoting heart health. It’s been used to help congestive heart disease, arrhythmia,myocarditis,insomnia,diarrhea,blood clots,hepatitis, ateriosclerosis, high cholesterol and digestion. One study suggested that daily hawthorn could help fortify smooth muscle tissue in dogs! Hawthorn berry studies have shown it increases blood circulation as wellt.

Primarily used in medicine to steady and strengthen the heart. Widely used for heart murmurs and congestive heart failure patients. Ofi includes this ingredient because we know how important a healthy heart is!</sup>

Rosehips

^{Benefits: Rosehip is truly the super hero for not just Vitamin C but did you know that Rosehips are much more powerful that even cranberries for relieving UTI’s ? We didn’t either until we did our research! They are a very helpful defense for battling pretty much any type of infection. What do you kow about Biofilm, yuck! It’s “gunk” that neurotoxins and dermatoxins release in the body forming a jelly like substance called BioFilm. It then filters through the organs and presents as more concerning issues with those organs. Did you know Rosehips have a dissolving effect on Biofilm. I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea!}

Rosemary

<sup>Benefits: Heart Health, Antioxidants that are great support for their reported benefits in cancer and heart disease studies. It’s also great for digestive issues and more and more we are learning about the damages of a leaky gut in our pets! Leaky gut in our animals is respsonsible for the following.

Your pup’s intestines are lined with an “intestinal mucosa,” that helps nutrients pass into the bloodstream while keeping pathogens and other nasties out (1). Think of it as a cheesecloth or water filter that separates their blood from the food and bacteria in their intestines.

Leaky gut is when this lining becomes damaged, letting bacteria and toxins “leak” into the bloodstream. Your dog’s immune system begins to react to these substances, treating them as foreign invaders.

Over time, this results in chronic inflammation and other symptoms as their livers work overtime to filter additional toxins. The sudden appearance of food allergies is also common as their bodies begin to see food as the enemy.

Eventually, your dog will end up in a near constant state of distress due to multiple allergies and inflammation, which is why it’s so important to catch leaky gut as soon as possible. ~Paleohacks</sup>

Spirulina

^{Benefits: Well known for one word! SUPERFOOD! Research of Spirulina provides a plethora of information. It was an easy decision to add this to our proprietary blend in Ofi. Reports for Spirulina inlcude: So oxidative damage can really do a number on your DNA and your cells. Chronic Inflamation in the body is a well known contributor for some serious health problems, like cancer among others. The biggest organ dogs have is their skin, it’s really the first area we see symptoms of chronic inflammation, aka those over diagnosed “allergies” we keep reading about. Allergies exist, but lets look at the cause, current medications wet blanket the issue in my opinion, Ofi’s blend targets those internal issues and starts it’s mission to use those reported benefits from the inside out! Trusted sources even tell us that not only does it supercharge the immune system but it’s also a powerful blood purifier ,rejuvenating current blood supply and promoting blood cell growth!}

Oregano Leaf

^{Benefits: Oregano is high in antioxidants that boost the immune system! A source of good fiber , helps with digestive problems such as diarrhea and gas.}

Marshmallow Root

^{Benefits: HI! Ofi here. Mom said I could tell you about this one! Im so excited to tell you about his one. Wanna know what marshmallow root does? Research states it heals the gut! So I’ll tell you about my leaky gut, I was pretty toxic and a leaky gut is when food particles leak through the intestines lining and into my bloodstream (if you look up leaky gut on your Ipad like “mama” did you learn lots about this subject the internet is really starting to ramp it up). Anyway, my Dr said I had allergies but nothing really worked plus the medications building up in my system without the ability to detox itself was a entirely different issue too. When food particles leak into your bloodstream for dogs, it presents as a allergy cause. The mucilage found in marshmallow coats the stomach for a protective layer to keep the toxins from the leak out of my bloodstream!}

Milk Thistle

<sup>Benefits: Silymarin, which is itself a combination of several other active compounds, has been extensively studied around the world, and has been shown to be safe and effective in treating a variety of liver diseases and other conditions. It specifically protects the liver against toxins (including some drugs and heavy metals), activates protein synthesis, and stimulates growth of new liver cells to replace those that are dead or damaged. Milk thistle also has strong antioxidant (destroys oxygen free radicals) and anti-inflammatory actions.

Silymarin reaches high levels in the bile and liver (it also reaches significant levels in the lungs, pancreas, prostate, and skin). It can be used in the treatment of hepatic lipidosis, chronic hepatitis, cholangitis (inflammation of the bile ducts), and pericholangitis (inflammation of the tissue around the bile ducts). It may be useful in preventing or treating gallstones by thinning the bile. Many dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have concurrent inflammation of the liver/bile system and the pancreas. This suite of symptoms is called “triaditis.” Because milk thistle’s beneficial actions concentrate on the liver and bile systems, it may also be helpful in dogs with IBD. ~Whole Dog Journal (shared from website)</sup>

MSM/Glucosamine/Chrondroitin

<sup>Benefits: We are all pretty knowledgeable about this one. Lets break it down anyway.

Glucosamine is a component of synovial fluid and cartliage. It’s the fluid and cushion needed in the joints!
MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane is researched and thought to be a anti-inflammatory analgesic and helper in collagen production.

Chondroitin is found in cartilage promoting water retention and elasticity which in turn helps with shock absorption and good nourishment of the joint tissue.</sup>

Mullein Leaf

^{Benefits: This herb has a focus and passion for lungs and the respiratory system. It’s been recommended as a treatment for dogs with kennel cough as well. New research has shown that mullein has a detox property for the lungs aiding in lung health and research suggests its beneficial for the kidney and nervous system.}

Nettle

<sup>Benefits: Here’s one every pet mom and dad should learn about! Nettle!
* Anti-allergic – reduces allergic symptoms via mast cell stabilization.
* Anti-rheumatic – an umbrella term for an herb that helps musculoskeletal conditions with undefined mechanism.
* Depurative – cleanses the blood, often helpful for skin and detoxifying.
* Nutritive tonic – restores the body and adds nutrients.
* Styptic – stops bleeding when applied to a wound.
* Diuretic – increases flow of urine and kidney filtration.
* Anti-inflammatory – reduces inflammation.</sup>

Pau D Arco

^{Benefits: Studies show that Pau D Arco has two main healing compounds Lapachol and beta-lapachone.
– Antibacterial
– Antifungal
– Antiviral
– Antiparasitic
– Anti-iflammatory
– Antioxidant
– Anti-cancer
– Gastrointestinal aid
~ more to study on Whole Dog Journal}

Kelp

^{Benefits: Supports endocrine function and thyroid function. Its a great source of soluble fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. They have anticoagulant properties to help reduce blood clots. Kelp has a insoluble fiber which is a prebiotic as well and feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut. Immune system support. Kelp is valuable for removing heavy metals and rich in antioxidants. ~ more to study on Whole Dog Journal}

Myrhh Gum

^{Benefits: Myrrh gum touts itself as a powerful antiseptic agent and antibacterial herb and most commonly used in dental health.}

Olive Leaf

^{Benefits: Olive Leaf is a natural antibiotic, it has the ability to neutralize, harmful bacteria ,yeast and viruses without hurting the healthy microbes in your pet’s gut and mucous lining. It’s antiviral meaning it can interfere with criticial amino production viruses. It can inactivate viruses and directly penetrate infected cells where is stops viral replication, stopping spreading. It’s an Antioxidant, helping block free radical formation.}

Astragalus

^{Benefits: Constituents: Flavonoids, saponin glycosides (astragalosides), polysaccharides, amino acids, essential fatty acids and trace minerals
Actions: Immunomodulator, antiviral, cardioprotective, hypotensive/diuretic, hepatoprotective, adaptogen
~ The Possible Canine}

Plantain

^{Benefits: It’s an anti-inflammatory can help reduce bladder,kidney and urinary tract inflammation.Helps as a digestive aid, protects against some forms of food bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and . The World Health organization recognizes the benefit of plantain.It’s approved its use to treat constipation and irritable bowl syndrom as well as reduce blood sugar after a meal. Studies show it can alleviate kennel cough.It builds up the Immune system and last but not least, Plantain can support dental health in dogs. Studies have shown that the antibacterial properties reduce bacteria associated with gingivitis and periodontal disease. ~ more to study on Whole Dog Journal}

Pumpkin Seed

^{Benefits: Research shows Antioxidant, beta-carotene and zeaxanthin which supports healthy skin, muscles, nerves and coat. Improves vision and boots the Immune System. Improve brain function and reduce skin inflammation. It improves heart health and increases glutathione levels to help with liver detox. ~ more to study on Whole Dog Journal}

Tumeric

^{Benefits: Here are some of the claimed health benefits of turmeric for dogs when administered orally:
 – Joint support
– Digestive function
– Metabolism booster
– Immune support
– Infection prevention
– Allergy relief
– Antioxidant properties
– Antibacterial properties
~ Better Pet}

Pomegranate

^{Benefits: The pomegranate is nutritious and high in nutrient content, including vitamin C, folic acid, fiber and potassium. Pomegranate is low in calorie and high in antioxidants. Excellent Immune System support.}

Ashwagandha

^{Benefits: of Ashwagandha for dogs include:
– Supporting the physical and mental well-being of your dog
– Helping to maintain normal nervous system function
– Promoting the body’s innate resistance to pathogens
– Supporting normal cardiovascular function
– Helping to promote normal hormone balance ` Honest Paws
– Studies have proven the increase in male fertility at 167%}

Apple Cider Vinegar

^{Benefits: Apple cider vinegar is full of microbes that establish good gut health. Fermented foods containing probiotics have been shown (in humans) to strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and improve mental health.
In addition to probiotics, apple cider vinegar contains digestive enzymes, magnesium, potassium, and natural antioxidants called polyphenols.}

Broccoli

<sup>Benefits: Top 3 Sulforaphane Benefits For Dogs
There are a lot of reasons to consider sulforaphane for your dog. It can help reduce pain, slow aging and support the heart. But I want to focus on the big 3 benefits …

1. Sulforaphane Fights Cancer
This shouldn’t come as a surprise. Human studies show that eating cruciferous veggies reduces cancer risk. In animal studies, sulforaphane has been shown to:
– Help protect cells from damage
– Induce cancer cell death (apoptosis)
– Inhibit tumor blood vessel formation
– Inhibit metastasis
– Inactivate carcinogens
Sulforaphane’s anti-cancer actions are mainly because it’s an HDAC inhibitor and inhibits DNA methyltransferases.

Both HDAC (or histone deacetylase) and methyltransferases are groups of enzymes that are involved in DNA transcription. Inhibiting these groups of enzymes helps protect your dog’s DNA by expressing special tumor suppressor genes.

But what does this mean for dogs with cancer?
Researchers from Oregon State University gave dogs broccoli sprout powder, which is the richest food source of sulforaphane. They found that sulforaphane had the same digestibility in dogs as humans … and that they also saw a better reduction in HDAC activity.

RELATED: Cancer in dogs: fight back with these top home remedies … 2. Sulforaphane Detoxifies The Liver
Every day, your dog is exposed to toxins. They’re in his food, his water and even the air he breaths. This buildup of toxins is highly inflammatory … and if this inflammation is left unchecked, it will damage or kill your dog’s cells. And eventually the organs they make up.

That’s one reason why your dog has a liver. Its job is to help exit inflammatory toxins from the body. Most toxins (and carcinogens) are fat soluble. So the liver has to convert them in two steps.

Phase I detoxification use enzymes to prepare the toxins to be eliminated from the body by making them more water soluble. The problem is, the toxins are made into compounds that are even more toxic than the original ones.

If the second part of detox, Phase II, goes according to plan, this isn’t a problem. The toxins will be made completely water soluble and passed to the gall bladder and kidneys to be exited from the body. But if Phase II detoxification doesn’t keep up, the freaky new toxins can wreak havoc with your dog. Sulforaphane is a potent activator of phase II liver detoxification. It also activates enzymes that protect your dog’s cells from DNA damage from carcinogens and inflammatory toxins.

When it comes to liver health, sulforaphane is one of the top contenders.
RELATED: Heavy Metal Detox For Dogs: Why It’s Important! …

3. Sulforaphane Is A Potent Antioxidant
I mentioned that sulforaphane is a potent activator of the Nrf2 pathway. Nrf2 is a protein that lives in every one of your dog’s cells. When it’s activated, it fires critical anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions throughout the entire body by activating antioxidant enzymes. One of the most important is glutathione. Many antioxidants will increase Nrf2 and glutathione activity … but what sets sulforaphane apart is that it’s a potent activator of Nrf2.

Like the almighty blueberry, sulforaphane can cross the blood-brain barrier and increase antioxidant activity in the brain. And, of course, sulforaphane increases antioxidant activity in the liver. And this has been shown in animals and humans, not just with in vitro studies.

OK, so if you’re now convinced your dog needs more sulforaphane in his life, then you’ll want to read on … because there are a few things you need to know.

Bonus: Sulforaphane And Healthy Guts
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that a daily serving of broccoli sprouts protected against Helicobacter pylori in humans. H. Pylori can cause ulcers, gut inflammation and digestive cancers. Once the subjects stopped eating the sprouts, the markers for H. Pylori returned to original levels. So sulforaphane is a potent defense against some harmful bacteria.

Sulforaphane And Myrosinase
Sulforaphane is derived from a precursor glucosinolate called glucoraphanin. The sulforaphane needs to be released from the glucoraphanin before your dog can use it. This happens when glucoraphanin is mixed with an enzyme that’s also in cruciferous veggies called myrosinase.

Myrosinase and glucoraphanin are kept separate in the cruciferous vegetables. But when the broccoli or Brussels sprout is chewed or damaged, the myrosinase is released … and sulforaphane can be produced. The gut bacteria also produce a few enzymes that can convert sulforaphane, but not many.

It’s important to know that myrosinase is needed to make sulforaphane because there are many sulforaphane products you can buy that don’t contain any myrosinase. So if you want to buy your dog a sulforaphane supplement, be sure it also contains the enzymes it needs to make sulforaphane bioavailable for your dog. ~ Dogs Naturally</sup>

Garlic /Allicin

<sup>The biggest myth about Garlic is that it is unsafe for dogs. The myth most likely began when a study fed canine subjects 40 cloves of garlic for a extended time. You overdose on pretty much anything and it’s gonna have a negative effect. So to begin here is the updated 2018 study on garlic safety and efficacy in dogs.

Safety and efficacy of aged garlic extract in dogs: upregulation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway and Nrf2-regulated phase II antioxidant enzymes
Osamu Yamato 1, Tadamitsu Tsuneyoshi 2, Mitsuyasu Ushijima 2, Hiroshi Jikihara 3, Akira Yabuki 4
Affiliations expand
– PMID: 30497454
– PMCID: PMC6267818
– DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1699-2


Free PMC article
Abstract
Background: Plants of Allium spp., including garlic (A. sativum) and onions (A. cepa), are known to be oxidatively toxic to canine erythrocytes resulting in Heinz body hemolytic anemia in dogs. In humans, these plants have been used as medicinal agents for multiple diseases since ancient times. Especially, fresh garlic extracted over a prolonged period produces less irritative and odorless aged garlic extract (AGE), containing unique and beneficial organosulfur compounds that can help prevent many kinds of diseases. In this study, the safety and efficacy of long-term oral administration of AGE is evaluated in dogs. The objectives are to confirm the safe dosage for long-term use and beneficial functions of AGE for dogs and to plan and design a canine health supplement or a preventive agent for multiple diseases based on the data of this study.

Results: Beagles were orally administered AGE (45 or 90 mg/kg body weight once a day) or an equivalent amount of water as control for 12 weeks. In AGE-treated groups, at 12 weeks post-administration at a dose of 90 mg/kg, there were no observable changes in the clinical signs, complete blood count, and serum biochemical parameters. Heinz bodies and eccentrocytes, the markers of oxidative damage in erythrocytes, did not appear in blood smear examination. In order to further evaluate the beneficial effects of AGE on health of dogs, the expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) gene (NFE2L2) and Nrf2-regulated phase II antioxidant enzyme genes (NQO1, GCLM, HMOX1, and SOD2) were determined in whole blood between pre- and post-AGE administration. The expression of NFE2L2 gene was significantly upregulated in the AGE-treated groups [45 (p < 0.05) and 90 mg/kg (p < 0.01), 8 weeks] as compared to in the control group. Among the Nrf2-regulated enzymes examined, the expressions of NQO1 [45 (p < 0.05) and 90 mg/kg (p < 0.01), 8 weeks] and GCLM [45 (p < 0.05) and 90 mg/kg (p < 0.01), 12 weeks] genes were significantly upregulated.

Conclusion: The long-term oral administration of AGE at a dose of 90 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks did not show any adverse effects in dogs. Furthermore, the administration of AGE upregulated the gene expressions of canine Nrf2 and Nrf2-regulated phase II antioxidant enzymes. These results suggest that AGE might safely contribute to the health of dogs provided that the appropriate dosage is used.

Keywords: Aged garlic extract (AGE); Dog; Glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM); NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1); Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2); Phase II antioxidant enzyme.

Link to Study:</sup>Safety and efficacy of aged garlic extract in dogs: upregulation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway and Nrf2-regulated phase II antioxidant enzymes – PubMed (nih.gov)
<sup>​
Health Benefits of Garlic for Dogs
Garlic has been used for thousands of years in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It contains at least 30 compounds that have been found to be useful for a variety of conditions from skin disorders to cancer.

Holistic veterinarians have been recommending garlic for many years for its multiple health benefits.
Below are the main health benefits of garlic for dogs:
   – Boosting the Immune System: Garlic stimulates immune functions in the bloodstream by increasing the activities of killer cells (cells that seek out and destroy invading microbes and cancer cells). So I think it’s safe to say that garlic is beneficial for dogs with suppressed immune systems and dogs fighting cancer. Moderate garlic supplementation in the diets of even healthy dogs can boost their immunity and prevent cancer.
   – Fighting Bacterial/Viral/Fungal Infections: Garlic is a powerful antimicrobial and antibiotic and is effective in fighting various forms of internal or external bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, including parasites (e.g. tapeworms) and protozoan organisms (e.g. giardia). Fresh garlic fed as part of a dog’s diet can fight infections of the mouth, throat, respiratory tract, stomach, or intestines. Crushed garlic diluted in olive oil can be used as a topical antiseptic for minor injuries, ear infections, or ear mites.
   – Enhancing Liver Function: Garlic has detoxifying effects. At least six compounds contained in garlic can enhance liver function by helping the liver to eliminate toxins from the body, thereby preventing toxic accumulation that may lead to cancerous growths.
   – Lowering Blood Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels: Uncooked garlic mixed in with food helps to lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels in dogs, making it useful for certain breeds (e.g. miniature schnauzers, beagles) that are predisposed to hyperlipidemia, a condition in which the amount of fats (lipids) in the blood are elevated.
   – Cardiovascular Tonic: A compound in garlic is effective at preventing blood clot formation in the vascular system. It can also reduce cholesterol levels and fat buildup in the arteries (atheorsclerosis). Therefore, it is an excellent cardiovascular tonic for older dogs.
   – Tick/Flea Repellent: The exact reason and extent of garlic’s effect on tick and flea prevention is not clear.
It may be due to the odor released through the dog’s skin as the compounds in garlic are metabolized. Whatever the reason, there are a lot of anecdotal reports on the effectiveness of garlic (especially in combination with brewer’s yeast) as a tick/flea repellent. ~Is Garlic Safe for Dogs? | How Much Garlic Can a Dog Safely Eat? (natural-dog-health-remedies.com)</sup>

Beef Bone Broth

<sup>Bone broth has been traditionally used to treat leaky guy and digestive issues, while also supporting good joint health. Bone broth can also benefit dogs with allergies and food sensitives, as it is a phenomenal immune system booster.
How does bone broth help dogs’ digestive health?

Bone broth also soothes the stomach, and really, the entire digestive system. The broth often helps the self-repair of the dog’s digestive system. Then, the growth of probiotics that usually result from consuming broth help boost your dog’s immunity. Some claim that bone broth is beneficial to the liver of dogs that consume it.

Bone broth is loaded with nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, which help promote collagen growth. It’s one of the biggest benefits of bone broth for dogs.

Collagen is important for your dog’s joint health. It’s literally the cushion at the ends of your dog’s bones and around the ligaments and tendons. And when your dog starts to lose some of that collagen, joint pain can develop. `Native Pet</sup>

Bilberry

<sup>Benefits: Bilberry, also known as the European blueberry, whortleberry, or huckleberry, is a berry related to the blueberry. Bilberry has a high concentration of anthocyanins, which is an antioxidant. Bilberry is used as a dietary supplement to mainly treat eye problems, but it has also been used as an antioxidant to treat cardiovascular conditions, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, diabetes, and other conditions.

New research has suggested that flavonoids found in bilberry may inhibit the formation of hemangiomas (a benign tumor), resulting in a reduction of tumor size by about 50 percent in one human study. These results suggest bilberry extract may hold promise in treating cancerous vascular (blood vessel) tumors in dogs, such as hemangiosarcoma. An anti-neoplastic (i.e., anti-tumor) effect against other cell types has also been demonstrated, due in part to bilberry’s content of anthocyanins. ~VCA Hospital</sup>

Probiotics / Prebiotics / Digestive Enzymes

<sup>– Bacillus subtilis
– Enterococcus faecium
– Lactobacillus acidophilus
– Bifidobacterium longum
– Bifidobacterium thermophilum
– Saccharomyces cerevisiae
– Amylase
– Protease
– Cellulase
– Lipase
– Pectinase
– Phytase

The biggest boom today in supplements has been the Probiotic push! Did , you know that to have its BIGGEST beneficial impact it HAS to be a BLEND of Probiotics, Prebiotics and Digestive Enzymes? Ofi’s blend includes them ALL! Ofi sources a blend that is micro-encapsulated to protect it from breakdown through the digestive track , so that it actually delivers the benefit intended, straight to the gut!

Here is the breakdown:
– Wanna know why your Ofi eats dirt? Bacillus Subtilis – Bacillus subtilis is a rod-shaped, Gram-positive bacteria that is found in soil and the gut of humans and some types of animals. Bacillus subtilis is commonly included in probiotic supplement formulations. It’s a useful and beneficial probiotic that supports digestion, enzyme production, immune and digestive system health.
– Enterococcus faecium-Enterococcus faecium: A Healthy Probiotic Strain. They are probably best known for the contribution they make to gut health and digestion. Probiotics also support gastrointestinal health, [1] aid the immune system, and perform other specialized tasks—every probiotic strain serves a unique purpose.
– Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic consisting of a family of bacteria known as lactobacilli. These bacteria exist in a dog’s system naturally. The supplement helps strengthen the pet’s immune system and improves its digestive health.
– Bifidobacterium Longum This probiotic has been studied in dogs and is another one that works on the gut-brain axis. A study done found that larger numbers of Bifidobacterium longum can reduce signs of stress in dogs. B. longum can also help with diarrhea and food allergies.
– Bifidobacteria are important colonizers of the GI tract and an integral part of a healthy and normal microbiota existing in the intestines, stomach and colon. Benefits of B. animalis include preventing inflammatory activity, infection and resolving idiopathic canine diarrhea.
– Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii (S. boulardii) is a safe yeast-based probiotic for dogs and cats. S. boulardii prevents and treats antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Clostridium difficile infection, non-specific diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease
– Amylase breaks down starches into smaller carbohydrate molecules.
– Protease, which breaks down proteins into amino acids so the body can use them.
– Cellulase.Dogs and cats cannot produce cellulase. Therefore, if you feed vegetables and fruits to your dog, get a product that contains cellulase for better digestion fruits and vegetables and other plant materials in the diet. Depending on the condition you are trying to treat, you should give enzymes to your dog either with meals or on an empty stomach.
– Lipase breaks down the fat for digestion
– Pectinase,Animal research using apple pectin, a widely used type in food processing, demonstrated impressive affects on beneficial gut bacteria including an increase in production of specific short chain fatty acids that provide ideal pH conditions for these bacteria. This is particularly promising since the human gut contains the same type of beneficial bacteria as noted in the research.
2. Provides Fuel for Colon Lining
In addition to helping provide a hospitable environment for beneficial bacteria, fatty acids like butyrate help to provide a large percentage of the fuel necessary for the colon. This can positively influence mucosal blood flow, intestinal motility, and the permeability of the gut. Maintaining these aspects of intestinal health are paramount to guarding proper absorption and helping to reduce the threat of absorption of potential allergens through the gut.
– Phytase,Phytase is a chemical found in our digestive system. It is also found in plant food and in bacteria and yeast cells. In our food and during digestion, phytase breaks down a chemical called phytic acid. Phytase is sometimes used as medicine. Phytase is used to increase the absorption of minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc.</sup>