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Keeping your pet healthy can be a full-time job. We all want what’s best for our furry loved ones, but knowing where to start can be tricky. From deciding what type of food to feed your pet to finding veterinary care, there are many challenges to caring for an animal with important needs.
What are Nutraceuticals?
One way we can care for our pets is by implementing nutraceuticals into their daily routine. The National Academy of Science-National Research Council (NAS/NRC) defines nutraceuticals for animals as “a substance for oral consumption by horses, dogs, and cats, whether in or on feed or offered separately, intended for specific benefit to the animal by means other than provision of nutrients recognized as essential or for provision or essential nutrients for intended effect on the animal beyond normal nutritional needs, but not including legally defined drugs.” Nutraceuticals commonly appear in certain pet foods or can be given through a separate supplement in liquid or capsule form.
According to a study done by Grand View Research, the global nutraceuticals market is estimated to reach $991.90 billion by 2030. Since the pandemic, people have become more conscious of their health and have turned to nutraceuticals to improve their overall well-being and disease prevention. Due to the success of nutraceuticals with humans, their use has trickled down to animals as people discover their benefits.
Bill & Coo, by DRC Ventures, is an animal nutraceutical company that creates products to help pets with all kinds of needs. Dr. Christina Rahm, the visionary behind Bill & Coo, created these products to treat pets like we treat ourselves. “We should treat our pet’s health with the same care and attention as ourselves,” says Dr. Rahm. “As we discovered the benefits of nutraceuticals, I thought, why not apply these benefits to the well-being of our beloved pets?”
Choosing what’s right for your pet
When looking for a nutraceutical product for your pet, make sure you look for pet-specific supplements. Some nutraceuticals designed for humans contain ingredients that are toxic to or differ in dosages appropriate for animals. It’s important to do extensive research on what nutraceuticals work for our pets to avoid any unwanted effects.
There are many steps that go into determining what nutraceuticals will work for our pet. Always consult with your veterinarian before supplementing nutraceuticals into your pet’s routine. Along with professional guidance, ensure that the nutraceuticals you choose are of good quality and will suffice your pet’s needs.
Benefits
Quality of Life
The behavior of your pet changes as they age. Maintaining their quality of life is vital to their health and overall happiness. Implementing nutraceuticals into their routine can keep them healthy and help them live their lives to the fullest.
Support & Prevention
Nutraceuticals assist with the prevention of diseases, conditions, and more. They help build a strong immune system so your pet can ward off any unwanted illnesses. Nutraceuticals can support and strengthen your pet’s everyday functions, even if your pet is already healthy.
Common Uses for Nutraceuticals
Joint Health
A common use of nutraceuticals is to support joint health and mobility. Many nutraceuticals support joints and arthritis, including glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.
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Digestion
Using probiotics is a great way to improve your pet’s digestion. They promote good bacteria, which in turn can generate the absorption of nutrients.
Immunity
One of nutraceuticals’ most notable benefits is disease prevention and immunity. A balanced diet and supporting nutraceuticals can help with inflammation and the onset of potential diseases. Vitamin C and E are critical antioxidants that assist in strengthening the immune system and reduce the risk of infection.
Behavioral Health
Many pets struggle with behavioral issues, memory loss, or a decline in cognitive abilities with old age. Nutraceuticals carry many benefits that can enhance their cognitive function and promote brain health.
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Types of Nutraceuticals
Nutraceuticals typically fall into categories. With so many types of nutraceuticals out there, it can be confusing to know what certain ones provide. Here are a few general categories of nutraceuticals that are great for pets:
- Probiotics: A good bacteria that promotes digestion and a healthy gut microbiome.
- Prebiotics: Encourages the growth and production of probiotics
- Omega-3 fatty acids: A type of healthy fat that assists in maintaining healthy immune systems and joints.
- Glucosamine: A natural compound that promotes healthy joints and cartilage.
Did you know that many nutraceuticals can be found in our food? Many fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients are considered natural nutraceuticals. These ingredients can easily be incorporated into your pet’s diet and help them daily. Here are a few natural nutraceuticals and their benefits:
- Turmeric: Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, is an antioxidant that aids in reducing inflammation.
- Fish Oil: Fish and fish oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vital antioxidants that can reduce arthritis symptoms.
- Ginger: Incorporating ginger into your pet’s food is an easy way to provide anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cranberries: Cranberries are a great source of many nutrients for dogs. This superfood aids in the prevention of diseases and aids in preventing inflammation.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutraceuticals may be the answer if you’re looking for a helpful aid for your pet’s joint health, immunity, or overall well-being. With their plethora of benefits, nutraceuticals offer animals the extra boost they need to live a healthy and long life.
