Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods To Reduce Effects of Arthritis in Dogs
In this article, we will explore natural ways to manage osteoarthritis in dogs by focusing on anti-inflammatory foods that can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support your furry friend’s overall wellbeing.
Understanding Canine Osteoarthritis
Before delving into the world of anti-inflammatory foods for dogs with arthritis, let’s first understand what canine osteoarthritis is and why it’s so prevalent.
What is Canine Osteoarthritis?
Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is a form of chronic joint inflammation caused by the deterioration of joint cartilage. It is highly prevalent in dogs, particularly in overweight and large breed dogs, and some breeds are genetically predisposed to develop arthritis (1, 2, 3). While the exact cause of primary OA remains unknown, there are numerous factors that can lead to secondary OA, including traumas, abnormal wear on joints and cartilages, and various medical conditions (5).
The hallmark symptoms of OA in dogs include chronic pain, lameness, and stiffness, especially after periods of activity. As the condition progresses, it can significantly reduce joint function and mobility. Unfortunately, there is no cure for OA at present, and treatment mainly focuses on managing the clinical signs and providing relief to affected dogs.
Natural Ways to Manage Your Dog’s Osteoarthritis
A diagnosis of osteoarthritis in your dog can be distressing, but it’s essential to understand that the primary goal is management rather than a cure. Managing OA effectively means enhancing your dog’s comfort, function, and quality of life while minimizing pain. One approach to achieving this is through natural treatments, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain without the potential adverse effects associated with Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) [^6^].
The Pitfalls of NSAIDs
While NSAIDs are commonly prescribed to dogs with joint stiffness and arthritis symptoms, they come with potential risks to your pet’s health. Research has shown that these drugs can have adverse effects, making them less than ideal for long-term use (1, 2, 3, 4, 5).
The good news is that there are alternative ways to manage arthritis and joint pain in dogs without the risk of these adverse effects. By opting for natural, anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, you can provide your canine companion with effective relief from pain and inflammation while supporting their overall health.
Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition: A Form of Gene-Silencing Technology
To understand the significance of anti-inflammatory foods for dogs with arthritis, it’s crucial to recognize the role of inflammation in chronic diseases. Many chronic health issues, including osteoarthritis, diabetes, cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, and anxiety, are driven by chronic inflammation [1].
Research has demonstrated that diets high in saturated fats, specifically long-chain saturated fatty acids, contribute to a state of chronic inflammation (7, 8, 9, 10, 11). These fatty acids primarily come from animal sources, such as full-fat dairy products, red meat, and poultry.
The balance of macronutrients, micronutrients, and omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in a dog’s diet can influence the expression of inflammatory genes. Anti-inflammatory nutrition can be considered a form of gene silencing technology, particularly concerning genes involved in the generation of silent inflammation. To enhance an anti-inflammatory diet, it’s essential to include supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (3, 4, 5, 6, 8).
Anti-Inflammatory Food Ingredients for Dogs
Now that we’ve established the importance of anti-inflammatory nutrition for dogs with osteoarthritis, let’s delve into the specific foods and ingredients that can help alleviate inflammation and support your dog’s joint health. These natural options provide a safer and more holistic approach to managing arthritis in dogs.
Olive Oil Extract
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that extra-virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal, a chemical that inhibits inflammatory enzymes in a manner similar to ibuprofen. Oleuropin and hydroxytyrosol, found in olive oil, are also potent anti-inflammatory compounds (1, 2, 3).
Pineapple
Pineapple boasts bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have indicated that consuming pineapple can reduce pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as lower swelling in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome (1, 2, 3).
Kale and Spinach
Dark green leafy vegetables like kale, chard, spinach, bok choy, and silver beet are rich in anti-inflammatory carotenoids. These plant pigments contribute to the vibrant colors of green and orange produce and have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Kale, in particular, contains sulforaphane, which can reduce levels of cytokines, further contributing to inflammation reduction (1, 2, 3).
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushrooms are known for their powerful compounds, including phenols and antioxidants, that combat inflammation. Reishi mushrooms are considered adaptogens and offer significant inflammation-fighting benefits. They also contain antioxidants like ergothioneine and glutathione, known for their potent free radical scavenging abilities and heart health benefits (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7).
Turmeric
Turmeric has gained attention for its high curcumin content, a powerful anti-inflammatory nutrient. Curcumin can suppress many molecules involved in inflammation without the side effects associated with synthetic drugs (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14). It is particularly effective at reducing inflammation related to arthritis, diabetes, and other diseases (45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51).
Ginger
Ginger is a spice renowned for its health benefits, loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (1, 2, 3).
Oats
Oats contain special compounds called avenanthramides, which play a significant role in reducing inflammation. These unique compounds are exclusive to oats and are not found in other cereal grains. Oats are also a source of Ergothioneine and Glutathione, both of which demonstrate powerful anti-inflammatory properties (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6).
Quinoa
Quinoa is rich in flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. Quinoa contains more quercetin than cranberries, another superfood with anti-inflammatory properties (5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10).
Rapeseed Oil
Rapeseed oil is a source of Vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin E helps lower C-reactive protein levels, and Omega-3 provides anti-inflammatory benefits (12, 36, 37, 38).
Baobab
Baobab, rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, may help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative damage to cells (11, 12, 13).
Cranberry
Cranberries contain powerful compounds, including Quercetin, Myricetin, Peonidin, and Ursolic acid, all with potent anti-inflammatory effects (3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15).
Parsley
Parsley is one of the top herbs known for its inhibitory effects on cancer-inducing inflammatory compounds (7, 8, 16).
Chamomile
Chamomile contains the antioxidant apigenin, which lowers inflammation and may reduce the risk of several types of cancer (8, 9, 10, 11, 39–43).
Echinacea Purpurea Root
Echinacea has potent anti-inflammatory properties, with numerous studies demonstrating a significant reduction in inflammation markers (20, 21, 28).
Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero)
Siberian Ginseng acts as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce inflammation, which is considered a cause of most chronic diseases (9, 10, 11, 12).
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
MSM has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and increases glutathione levels. It may reduce the release of molecules associated with inflammation and boost levels of the powerful antioxidant glutathione (4, 5, 6, 7, 86, 87, 90, 91).
Glucosamine
Glucosamine’s mechanism of action in treating diseases isn’t fully understood, but research suggests that it may reduce inflammation (3, 4, 5, 18).
Sage
Carnosic acid and carnosol, found in sage, are chief anti-inflammatory molecules known to reduce inflammation markers (1, 2, 3).
Rosemary
Rosemary is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, including carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, and carnosol, which help reduce inflammation (1, 2, 3, 4).
Seaweed (Algae) and Seaweed (Algal) Extract
Seaweed (Algae) contains numerous anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds, including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, chlorophyll a, β-carotene, and fucoxanthin. These compounds have shown effectiveness in chronic inflammation-linked metabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis (1, 2, 3, 4, 5).
Canine osteoarthritis is a challenging condition that affects the quality of life of our furry companions. While there is no cure for this ailment, natural approaches to manage arthritis, such as incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and ingredients into your dog’s diet, can provide effective relief from pain and inflammation without the potential adverse effects of pharmaceutical drugs.
These natural remedies offer a holistic approach to supporting your dog’s joint health and overall wellbeing. By making the right dietary choices, you can help your furry friend lead a more comfortable and active
Bonza Superfoods and Ancient Grains vegan dog food has been formulated by vets, canine nutritionists and herbalists using many of the most powerful anti-inflammatory foods to support your dog’s joint health, including arthritis.
Bonza’s plant-based dog food includes a wide variety of ingredients with powerful, scientifically researched anti-inflammatory properties that will help to support a reduction in inflammation for your dog offering them more comfortable movement.
Primary ingredients in Bonza providing this anti-inflammatory activity are oats and quinoa.
Offering synergistic support for these primary anti-inflammatories are our inflammation reducing herbs, botanicals, oils and supplements – turmeric, ginger, chamomile, echinacea, Reishi mushroom, Siberian ginseng, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), Glucosamine, pineapple, baobab, parsley, sage, rosemary, rapeseed oil, coconut oil, olive oil extract, kale, spinach, seaweed, seaweed extract and cranberries.
