Keys to selecting a good probiotic product • Look for a supplement containing at least Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. • There should be a label guarantee of live microorganisms. • The product should be of sufficient potency (at least 100 million per dose).
Note: Many products combine digestive enzymes with
probiotics, and these can be a good, cost-effective choice, especially for fussy pets who are difficult to supplement.
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Keys to selecting a good digestive enzyme product • Look for one from a plant or fungal source, in order for it to work in the widest range of pH and temperature. • It should contain, at least: protease, amylase, lipase and cellulase.
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PROBIOTICS
Probiotics include beneficial bacteria such as L. acidophilus and certain Bifidobacteria, Enterococcus and Streptococcus species. Probiotics help keep normal gut bacteria balanced and healthy. The intestinal microbiota is an essential part of overall health. Constant back-and-forth interaction occurs between the gut bacteria and brain through neural, endocrine, immune and humoral links. A balanced gut ecology has implications for not only physical but also emotional and mental health. It prevents pathogenic bacteria from gaining a foothold; produces B vitamins, vitamin K, and short-chain fatty acids; and supports normal immune system function. Supplemental probiotics have benefits for allergies, including atopy, food allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. They are also helpful for pets with any type of digestive problem, including vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, IBD, colitis, and even hairballs. Probiotics are also essential for animals who are, or have been, taking antibiotics (including natural antimicrobial therapies such as herbs, medicinal mushrooms, colloidal silver, etc.). Continue probiotic supplementation for at least two weeks after treatment. Unfortunately, testing has found that many pet foods and supplements claiming probiotics contain few, if any, live organisms.
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IVC Summer 2015
ANTIOXIDANTS
The function of antioxidants is to scavenge and neutralize oxygen free radicals. Cells make controlled quantities of free radicals as weapons against viruses, fungi, bacteria and abnormal cells. However, excess unbalanced free radicals create oxidative stress, which can damage normal cells and create chronic inflammation. Processed pet foods are typically high in pro-inflammatory Omega-6 fatty acids, so supplementing with antioxidants is very important. Free radical damage is at the root of virtually all degenerative and inflammatory diseases, as well as many we don’t necessarily think of as involving inflammation, such as diabetes, cancer, hypothyroidism, heart disease, and cognitive dysfunction. By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants likely have value in disease prevention as well as treatment. However, the mechanisms are complex, and robust scientific proof is still lacking. Nevertheless, antioxidants can universally be considered helpful for most inflammatory and immunemediated diseases.
Further considerations
Getting supplements – especially multiple supplements – into the patient is always a challenge in veterinary medicine. Palatability can be a real problem. Products formulated for pets are often better accepted, but may have issues with potency and viability. Supplements are poorly regulated, and overblown (if not downright fraudulent) claims are rampant. Clients often come in with lots of ideas from Dr. Google and friends, and it’s hard to judge the validity and value of products you’ve never heard of. Fortunately, reputable companies back up their products with good research; Thorne, VetriScience, Nordic Naturals and Standard Process come immediately to mind. Products bearing the NASC seal have passed rigorous standards and can be relied on. And knowledgeable colleagues are an invaluable resource that can be reached nearly 24/7 through the CAVM-List, Veterinary Information Network, and other forums.