You may be familiar with fish oil as an instrumental tool for heart, brain and eye health. But did you know the ocean is filled with plants and creatures that contain beneficial nutrients and antioxidants for your pet?
In today’s over-processed pet foods arena, our four-legged family members are missing out on necessary health boosts that cannot be found in a bag or a can with a long shelf life. Feeding a commercially processed diet usually warrants a fatty acid deficiency or imbalance. Your dog and cat need vital omega-3 fatty acids to support their skin, coat, eye, brain, heart and most importantly overall immune health. If your pet suffers from chronic inflammation, itchy skin or allergies, you will want to consider adding one of these superfoods to their daily meal:
Green Lipped Mussels – these little guys are native to New Zealand and contain immense anti-inflammatory properties with naturally occurring Glycosaminoglycans. Glycosaminoglycans are components of synovial fluid and cartilage and assist in the repair of joint tissues. Green Lipped Mussels are packed with natural proteins, minerals, vitamins and omega-3 acids. You can find this supplement in pure powder form or as a tasty treat with some manufacturers offering them whole in freeze-dried form.
Green Lipped Mussels
Phytoplankton – quite possibly one of my favorite forms of omega-3’s! Phytoplankton are tiny, single celled, microscopic plants found at the base of the food chain and are the foundation of nutrition for all ocean life. They contain every nutrient your dog and cat needs including vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, chlorophyll, carotenoids and protein. There is even research showing phytoplankton has cancer killing potential. Dogs and cats love the taste of phytoplankton and you only need to feed a tiny amount (1/16 tsp to ⅛ tsp) daily.
Phytoplankton
Kelp – the sea vegetable that is loaded with 60 vitamins and minerals plus 21 amino acids! No wonder it contains one of the richest sources of amino acids along with 25% protein and 2% fat. Kelp is a rich source of iodine which is important for thyroid function as well as iron for proper circulation. Supplementing with kelp is great for decreasing inflammation associated with itching and allergies, aiding in tissue repair, supporting digestion and can even assist in reducing tartar and plaque buildup!
Kelp
Krill – found in the pristine waters of the Antarctic ocean, these shrimp-like crustaceans contain a high level of an antioxidant called Astaxanthin which gives the krill their deep red color. This antioxidant is also a superior aid in eliminating the harmful molecules that cause free radical damage. Unlike regular fish oil, krill contains 33% more EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and the omega-3 source of krill comes in the form of phospholipids rather than triglycerides. Phospholipids are gentler on a stomach and are delivered much more effectively to the cells.
Krill
Adding an omega-3 rich source to your pets daily diet is one of the best things you can do to boost their health. Plus, the best thing about all of these choices – they don’t oxidize and go rancid as quickly as regular fish oils do!
If you need help in finding the right marine nutrient for your pet, please contact me.
