Bioactive Ingredients: Reasons Why Your Dog’s Food Should Include Them

Your dog is your best friend, bioactive ingredients can help your relationship last longer.

As responsible dog owners, we strive to provide them with the best care and nutrition. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in bioactive ingredients and their potential impact on canine health. In this article, we will explore the concept of bioactive ingredients, their sources, and their significant benefits in promoting the health and well-being of our beloved furry friends.

Understanding Bioactive Ingredients

Bioactive ingredients are natural compounds found in various food sources that can positively influence physiological functions in the body. These substances go beyond basic nutrition and offer additional health benefits. They may include phytochemicals, antioxidants, prebiotics, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and other functional food components.

There is a significant lack of understanding of the precise biological mechanisms of how plant-based bioactive food components impart health-promoting benefits. It is clear that bioactive food components act simultaneously at different or identical target sites. Bioactive food components have been shown to have the potential to reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic degenerative diseases.

Sources of Bioactive Ingredients

Bioactive ingredients can be derived from a wide range of sources, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. For example, berries such as blueberries and cranberries are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and boost the immune system. Turmeric, a common spice, contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach are packed with vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Common Forms of Bioactive Ingredients Found in Foods

There are myriad bioactive food components in plant-based foods. A partial list includes the polyphenols, phytosterols, carotenoids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, organosulfur compounds including isothiocyanates and diallyl- (di, tri)sulphide compounds, soluble and insoluble fibre, and fructooligosaccharides. It is most common to find mixtures of these compounds within a plant food, rarely is one class of bioactive food component found singly.

Polyphenols are the most numerous and widely distributed group of bioactive molecules.

Food sources of polyphenols and flavonoids include vegetables, fruits, cereals, legumes, nuts, tea, vegetables, and grains. Food sources include oats, barley, millet, Brussel sprouts, cranberries, blueberries and strawberries.

Organosulphur compounds are commonly found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts or allium vegetables such as garlic, leeks, and onions (onions and leeks are toxic for dogs – do not feed).

Phytosterols are the plant counterparts of cholesterol in animals. The best food sources include nuts, seeds, unrefined plant oils, and legumes. 

The carotenoids are lipid-soluble plant pigments – beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lycopene and lutein are the most prevalent bioactive compounds.

Carrots, squash, sweet potato, and spinach are abundant in both beta-and alpha-carotene and the dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, mustard greens, and green beans are good sources of lutein. Lycopene is found predominately in tomatoes.

Tocopherols and tocotrienols are lipid-soluble bioactive compounds most commonly found in vegetable oils, nuts and the germ portion of grains.

Benefits of Bioactive Ingredients for Canine Health

Bioactive ingredients offer numerous benefits for dogs’ health and well-being. Here are some key ways they can positively impact our furry companions:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Many bioactive compounds possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the risk of chronic inflammation, which is linked to conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Antioxidant Support: Antioxidants found in bioactive ingredients help neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of diseases associated with aging, such as cancer and cognitive decline.
3. Immune System Boost: Bioactive ingredients enhance immune system function, supporting the body’s natural defence mechanisms against infections and diseases.
4. Digestive Health: Prebiotics and probiotics, both bioactive ingredients, promote a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gastrointestinal health.
5. Joint Health: Some bioactive ingredients, such as glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin, found in sources like algae and seaweed, shellfish and cartilage, help maintain healthy joints and prevent conditions like osteoarthritis.
6. Cognitive Function: Certain bioactive ingredients, including omega-3 fatty acids from sources like seaweed or algae, support brain health, improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of cognitive decline in aging dogs.

Incorporating Bioactive Ingredients in Dog’s Diet

To harness the benefits of bioactive ingredients, it is crucial to provide dogs with a balanced and nutritious diet. Consider the following tips:

1. Consult a Vet or Canine Nutritionist: Before making any dietary changes, consult your veterinarian to ensure that the bioactive ingredients are appropriate for your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.
2. Choose Premium Quality Plant-based Dog Food: Look for plant-based, vegan dog food brands that incorporate bioactive ingredients, ensuring the ingredients are sourced from reputable suppliers.
3. Home Cooked Meals: If you prefer a DIY approach, work with a veterinary nutritionist to formulate home-cooked meals that include bioactive ingredients in appropriate proportions and have all the nutrients required for complete and balanced nutrition for your dog.
4. Treats and Supplements: Explore dog treats and supplements that contain bioactive ingredients to provide additional health benefits alongside regular meals.

Conclusion

Bioactive ingredients are an exciting and natural way to enhance the health of our canine companions. By incorporating these functional components into their diet, we can support their overall well-being, from joint health and digestion to immune function and cognitive performance. Remember, while bioactive ingredients offer substantial benefits, it is essential to work closely with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to determine the right dosage and to ensure the best care for our furry friends.

Bonza vegan dog food includes superfoods and ancient grains selected for their bioactive ingredients as well as PhytoPlus®, a proprietary blend of herbs, botanicals and adaptogens packed with powerful bioactive ingredients formulated to support your dog’s very best day to day health and promote longevity.

Elevate your dog’s food beyond simple nutrition. Try Bonza Bioactive Dog Food today.