It\u2019s a papaya, it\u2019s a chia seed, it\u2019s a superfood! But what are superfoods for dogs?<\/p>\n
Food that has particularly high nutritional value is often labeled a \u201csuperfood.\u201d These nutrient-packed foods are key sources of antioxidants, omega fatty acids, fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals<\/a>.<\/p>\n Superfoods in dog food are also functional ingredients<\/a>. Functional ingredients provide bonus benefits beyond basic nutrition when they are part of a complete and balanced diet. Antioxidants, essential fatty acids and fiber provide some of these bonus benefits. Adding these superfoods to a dog\u2019s diet can help a dog\u2019s skin, boost a healthy immune system, aid joint health and more. These nutritional benefits are why many dog food manufacturers include canine superfoods in their formulas.<\/p>\n Antioxidants<\/a> help keep pets healthy by protecting them from the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are byproducts of normal metabolism, but if more free radicals are produced than there are antioxidants to control them, health issues, like cancer and heart disease, can occur. Antioxidants in superfoods can work with antioxidants naturally produced by the body to control these free radicals.<\/p>\n The bonus benefits of antioxidants include immune system support and maintenance of healthy skin. Superfoods that are sources of antioxidants include quinoa, blueberries, carrots, oranges and spinach.<\/p>\n Fatty acids<\/a> are components of fats that are energy sources, are precursors of hormones and chemical signals, and have key roles in cell membrane integrity. Some omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential and need to be provided in your pet\u2019s food because they either can\u2019t be synthesized by the body or can\u2019t be synthesized in enough quantities to meet nutritional requirements.\u00a0They are required by young animals for proper brain and vision development.<\/p>\n The bonus benefits include healthy skin, supporting coat health, anti-inflammatory effects and improvement of symptoms for diseases like kidney disease and heart disease. Superfoods that contain omega fatty acids include chia seed, coconut, flaxseed, salmon and salmon oil.<\/p>\n There are two types of fiber<\/a> \u2014 soluble and insoluble \u2014 that help support healthy digestion in pets. Soluble fiber turns into a gel-like substance and slows down food digestion, and insoluble fiber helps move food through the intestines.<\/p>\nAntioxidants in Dog Food Can Support a Dog\u2019s Immune System<\/h2>\n
Omega Fatty Acids Are a Canine Superfood<\/h2>\n
Fiber Provides Multiple Nutritional Benefits<\/h2>\n