Pro or Antioxidant?
We hear about antioxidants all the time. We seem to need them, according to the health gurus. Apparently dogs need them too. What are they?
Antioxidants protect both dog and human bodies from diseases. The are vital nutrients that slow the destructive aging of molecules at the cellular level. They are a bit tricky though and don’t always work the same way for all diseases.
Here is an uncomplicated outline of antioxidants and what they are about:
1. The term refers to the protective action of specific minerals, phytochemicals (plant chemicals), and vitamins.
2. Antioxidants work to combat the effects of free radicals that damage DNA, cells, and proteins. These charged up, unpaired electrons have been linked to diseases such as cancer and arthritis.
3. These are the antioxidant supplements: vitamins A,C, and E and the mineral selenium.
What each one of these does:
Vitamin A- is a fat soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in reporduction, cell differentiation and division, vision, and bone growth. Helps in regulation of the immune system and assists in maintaining healthy urinary, repsiratory and digestive tracts. Sources: carrots, yams, cod liver, slamon oil
Vitamin C- is a water soluble vitamin that can be manufactured in the body of a dog! It helps wound healing and may even prevent hip dysplasia. Vitamin C also aids in combatting joint disease. Sources: citrus fruit, tomatoes, bell peppers, alfalfa, rosehips, and cherries. Herbs and Spices: cinnamon, oregano, clove, and basil among others.
Vitamin E- a fat soluble vitamin that has eight different forms. This vitamin plays a key role in reproductive health and protects against heart disease and cataracts. Sources: almonds, sunflower oil and seeds, safflower oil, corn and corn oil.
Selenium- is a mineral that is critical in trace amounts for heart health. The mineral cooperates with vitamin E, iodine, and methionine.
How do we provide our dogs with the essential antioxidants?
Provide your companion canine with a healthy, balanced diet and supplement with a variety of vegetables, herbs and spices, berries and fruits. There are also dietary supplements that come in palatable, easy to administer daily doses.
Bone Appetit!
