Superfoods to Feed your Dog- Part 2

Part 2! There are quite a few foods you may not (or may) know are great for humans but are also great for your canine companion. In this post we go over a few more foods to try out with your pup! Some are full of Vitamins A, B, C and K, some have antioxidants,  and some can help prevent arthritis. Let us know in the comments which ones you try and what benefits you notice.

​Bean Sprouts
     Cooked or raw bean sprouts pack a power punch of vitamins A, C, B, and E as well as amino acids. They have been known to help dogs with certain allergies, kidney and liver disease, inflammatory issues like arthritis, and so much more.
     Bean sprouts are high in fiber so introduce slowly. You will want to keep it to small amounts as it can cause gas or gastric upset, if too much is eaten at once.

Asparagus
     High in fiber containing both soluble and insoluble fiber, asparagus can help support digestion and gut health. It is also packed with vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants that help decreased inflammation and prevent chronic disease.
     A general rule of thumb is that vegetation should be no more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Like most superfoods small amounts go along way. 1-2 tsp daily for small dogs, 2-3 tsp daily for medium dogs, 1-2 Tbsp daily for large dogs.

Papaya
     Papaya contains minerals: Potassium, calcium, folate. Good for healthy bones and blood. Vitamins: A, C, E, and K: Good for the immune system, skin, and fur. High in fiber which helps to prevent constipation in addition to its high water count. It also has antioxidants: good for the immune system and the heart.
     Don't forget to remove the seeds and cut into bite sized pieces before serving.

Cranberries
     Cranberries are high in antioxidants and nutrients that help support the immune system and decrease inflammation. In addition they are high in vitamin C, potassium and fiber which can help improve your dog’s bladder health, reduce tartar and plaque buildup, fight bacteria, and even prevent cancer.

Pineapple
     Small amounts of fresh pineapple are safe for dogs and are a natural anti-inflammatory, they are full of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Pineapple can be fed as a treat will give your dog a healthy amount of bromelain, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals including thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6, riboflavin, and folate.
        Watch out for canned fruits as they are often high in sugar.

Turmeric Root
     Turmeric which contains curcumin which is a potent, natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This helps fight diseases like arthritis, diabetes, cancer, liver disease, and gastrointestinal issues. Some studies have shown curcumin to be as effective as corticosteroids in relieving joint pain.
     To reap the greatest benefits it is recommended you create a golden paste using a healthy oil to increase absorption of the curcumin.

Broccoli
     Broccoli is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. Vitamin K as been found to help increase bone density. Potassium not only promotes heart health, but it is vital for several daily bodily functions. It also has anti- inflammatory properties that can help with arthritis.
     Even just a few pieces of broccoli can have anti-inflammatory effects. Broccoli contains omega 3s that help regulate inflammation which can help slow progression of joint degeneration, more specifically it contains sulforaphane that can help block the enzymes that cause joint destruction.

Shiitake Mushrooms
     Shiitake mushrooms are high in fiber, copper, and Vitamin B5 and are great immunity boosters. More notably they contain polysaccharides that are known to aid the body’s anti-inflammatory and tumor-inhibiting abilities.

Part 3 to follow.