Digestive support is a natural way to support your pet's system so that he isn't affected adversely by the damaging effects of processed food, preservatives and pollutants. Digestive aids such as digestive enzymes, Acidophilus, Acetylator or Aluminum Hydroxide gel help the digestive process and promote urinary and bowel functions. They also reduce stomach acids responsible for heartburn and treat upset stomachs, diarrhea, smelly stools and other digestive disorders.
Digestive Enzymes and Their Function
Enzymes are needed to digest ingested food and are secreted by the pancreas, as required by the body. Dogs that eat raw food obtain enzymes directly from raw, unprocessed foods. A dog that's fed commercial food doesn't get enzymes from the food, and his pancreas is required to produce larger amounts of these digestive enzymes. This results in an overworked digestive system and inefficient digestion. Improper functioning of the digestive system and inefficient absorption of nutrients can result in problems such as a weak immune system, allergies, skin problems, cancer, arthritis, lethargy, diarrhea, bloating, body odor and premature aging. These essential digestive enzymes include protease, amylase, lipase and cellulose. Protease is responsible for breaking down proteins into essential amino acids while amylase is responsible for converting carbohydrates to sucrose, lactose and maltose. Lipase breaks down fats to fatty acids and glycerol, while cellulose breaks down fiber.
Benefits of Digestive Support to Dogs:
- Promotes a healthy digestive system
- Reduces inflammation of gastrointestinal tissues
- Treats and prevents diarrhea
- Strengthens the immune system
- Relieves symptoms of stomach ulcers, gastritis and enteritis
- Resolves problems of smelly stools and foul breath
- Decreases susceptibility to degenerative diseases
- Assists in weight management
- Increases the ability to fight cancer
When Is Digestive Support Required?
The pancreas is involved in producing both digestive and metabolic enzymes. If the dog's diet provides sufficient digestive enzymes, the pancreas can spend more time in producing metabolic enzymes. Hence, digestive support can benefit healthy dogs as they will have an increased ability to break down food into nutrients and their pancreas can produce sufficient metabolic enzymes. Such dogs have shinier coats, firmer stools, fewer allergies and less gas. However, digestive support is particularly indicated if your dog is on a commercial diet or given cooked foods. Digestive support is also beneficial to dogs with digestive disorders such as vomiting, diarrhea and gas. It also helpful for older dogs, dogs on antibiotics, pets showing signs of stress or anxiety and dogs suffering from hypothyroidism and yeast infections.
Is Digestive Support for Dogs Safe?
Digestive support is usually considered very safe as it has no side effects and consists of natural substances. You should follow the instructions on the package meticulously. When in doubt, seek vet help and administer the support as prescribed.
A nutritious diet, regular exercise, tender loving care and natural digestive support can help your pet enjoy optimum health and live a happy and fruitful life.