Whole foods are quickly gaining popularity among dog owners, and for good reason. The benefits of raw food and herbal supplementation go beyond being simply ‘a healthy choice’. Whole, unprocessed foods such as raw food diets, natural essential oils and herb along with Omega supplementation carry great benefits, especially when it comes to allergy related skin irritation and coat health.
Allergic reactions begin with metabolic activity occurring deep within our dog’s cells. The first exposure to an allergen stimulates their immune system into a heightened state of alertness. Each subsequent exposure sets off a series of defensive cellular reactions. Often these early reactions are subclinical — without symptoms presenting upon physical examination; a silent festering. This subclinical reaction increases histamine receptor sensitivity, eventually manifesting as skin irritation and poor coat health. Processing methods used in the manufacturing of commercial dry and wet foods drastically alter the chemical makeup of otherwise beneficial ingredients; in some cases, reversing their intended benefits. Fatty acids can suffer from oxidation to such an extent that it may even contribute to inflammation in their body. This, along with an age-related decrease in endogenous (internally produced) antioxidants, cause previously silent allergic reactions to erupt into a raging inflamed frenzy of itching. Raw foods; however, supply nutrients in their whole, unadulterated form. By providing higher levels of unscathed fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, their metabolism receives the nourishment it needs to keep reactions to allergens at bay. Essential Oils, Herbs and fatty acid supplementation, further build their body’s defense against allergies. Many natural bioflavonoids have antihistamine like properties, working synergistically with vitamins and minerals contained in their diets. A natural antihistamine preparation can include: quercetin, biotin, folic acid, zinc and vitamins E and C Once allergies appear under control, continuing with fatty acid supplementation is crucial in maintaining their healthy inflammatory response. Using a quality Omega fatty acid supplement that contains the correct ratio of Omega-6 linoleic acid (LA) to Omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is important. An imbalance of Omega fatty acids can cause inflammation; whether there is too much Omega-3 and not enough Omega-6 or vice versa. A well balanced fatty acid supplement will help their body build and support their natural defense against allergies. Pharmaceuticals and conventional antihistamines provide temporary relief; they also bring with them the potential for significant side effects. Long-term use may result in connective tissue degradation and cardiovascular damage. The best approach to allergies is starting with their diet. Providing a whole food diet that includes raw food, Omega and pure essential oils and herbal supplementation will nourish their body’s ability to work against allergies self-sufficiently. I recommend supplements along with a combination of certified pure essential oils, enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics to get to the root of the problem. Lavender, Lemon and Peppermint Certified Pure Essential Oils provide a natural antihistamine formula along with the supplements to help build the immune system. You will find the below products in supplements: Quercetin is a bioflavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, from the flowers of the pagoda tree. Quercetin does an effective job suppressing histamine release that causes much of the inflammation, redness and irritation in your pet. Grape See Extract is a strong antioxidant that helps to support the immune system and has an anti-inflammatory effect in cats and dogs with allergic skin conditions. The extract from the grape seed is not toxic to your pet like grapes are. Digestive enzymes provides pancreatic enzymes (protease, amylase, lipase) supporting the pancreas to promote healthy digestion when your pet is not provided enough raw foods or the foods are too high in carbohydrates that do not get broken down efficiently. Active enzyme blend with Protease plant enzymes to break down complex proteins in food that do not digest properly that contribute to allergies. Zinc antioxidant mineral that helps prevent the histamine to begin with. Omega fatty acids help decrease inflammation throughout the body. Adding them into the diet of all pets – particularly pets struggling with seasonal environmental allergies – is very beneficial.
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AuthorI am a Subtle Energy Animal Practitioner & Healing Touch for Animals Practitioner. I am P4EO Certified in using Essential Oils with animals. Archives
March 2020
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