Prebiotics for your pet, what does it mean?
Prebiotics work as a health food for the beneficial bacteria in the bowel and help the digestive health of your pet. Prebiotics are also known as Fructo Oligo Sacharides (FOS). They are basically non-digestible carbohydrates which just pass through the body of your dog and don't contribute to any calorie uptake. Prebiotics are non digestible and reach the same state in the colon of your pet.
Most dog and cat owners are still unaware of the importance of Prebiotics for their pets. In smaller and simpler terms: Prebiotics are those non- digestible foods that have a beneficial effect on your pet's digestive system. These are, by definition, "Non-digestible food ingredients that beneficially affect the host by selectively stimulating the growth of one of a limited number of beneficial bacterial species in the colon. Beneficial bacteria include Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which have the potential to improve host health, while at the same time working to inhibit the growth of pathogenic, "bad-guy" microorganisms."
Fructo-oligosaccharides or (FOS) or neo-sugars are mad of units of fructose. They are resistant to digestion in the upper digestive tract. These FOS stimulate ht growth of Bifidobacterium in the large intestine. FOS are commonly found in such foods as garlic, onions, leeks, wheat, bananas, asparagus and artichokes. FOS are considered pre-biotics because they promote the growth of the healthy intestinal flora.
To classify a food as Pre-biotics we need to check that it should not be absorbed by the GI tract and should not be broken down. It should reach colon in the same state it was taken. Another parameter which needs to be measured is that it should be fermented by the gastrointestinal micorflora. It should also importantly encourage the growth of health bacteria in the intestine of your pet.
The most widely known living probiotic bacteria are lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. By consuming prebiotics you can increase the levels of the beneficial bacteria in the gut that support your pet's immune function. Prebiotics help relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, antibiotic induced diarrhea and some research has pointed to prevention of Salmonella.
Once the Prebiotics reach the colon of your dog the yeasting process takes place. This results in release of fatty acids. These fatty acids then cover the surface of colon and provide food to the cells for maintenance and proliferation. These fatty acids work as herbs for your pet.
Prebiotics work by stimulating the growth of one of limited number of beneficial bacteria in the host. Beneficial bacteria include Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. These bacteria have the intensity to improve host health and work to restrain the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria can be referred as "bad bacteria" in the host body. In order to take care of our pet and to keep him healthy we need to care of his digestive health.
Animals' Apawthecary Prebiotics is a blend of certified organic Chicory root, marshmallow root, fennel seed and yucca root to support the healthy digestive flora. Animals' Apawthecary herbal formulas have been formulated by a leading herbalist, Greg Tilford. Mr. Tilford is an author, consultant and teacher in the field of veterinary botanical medicine and a respected pioneer of the natural pet care industry. Mr. Tilford is the formulating herbalist and president of two Montana-based companies that produce natural supplements for companion animals: Animals Apawthecary Co. and Animal Essentials Inc.
The function of the herbs in the Animals' Apawthecary Prebiotics herbal tincture are:
Chicory root- Is a proven prebiotic that promotes healthy digestion. Chicory root is one of the foods with the highest amount of inulin. Inulin is a soluble dietary fiber and is a naturally occurring oligosaccharide. Inulin is a non-digestable fiber, meaning it passes through the small intestine and ferments in the large intestine. Through this fermentation process the inulin then becomes healthy intestinal microflora (bifidobacterium).
Marshmallow Root- Has been found to relieve irritation and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract and also helps to normalize mucous secretions.
In conditions, such as irritable bowel disease (IBD) or digestive problems, marshmallow root soothes and protects the tissues.
In conclusion, your pet may benefit from the use of a prebiotic formula. Dogs and cats that have a digestive sensitivity with resultant loose stool or diarrhea may benefit tremendously with the addition of a prebiotic herbal formula such as the Animals Apawthecary Prebiotic Plus. Many factors contribute to issues that may upset your pet's digestive balance. Stress form travel, change in diet or antibiotic therapy. Your cat or dog may show signs of poor digestive health. Some signs are flatulence, diarrhea, overeating, poor immunity, sluggishness, weight loss and general poor overall appearance. Many of our pets have an inflammation in their small intestine which has caused a severe overgrowth of bacteria. Since there are no side effects or adverse reactions known, the addition of a pre-biotic formula will help promote a healthier intestinal tract and aid in better digestion.
Mickey's Pet Supplies specializes in All Natural, Organic, Holistic, Eco-Friendly pet supplies for cats and dogs. Mickey's Pet Supplies is a family owned store where their customer and their pets needs are their number one priority. This online discount pet supplies store only carries the highest quality products from top names. Most of their products are made in the USA. They believe that your pet is a part of your family and they deserve the best.
