MOS and FOS: Prebiotic Ingredients for Dog’s Best Digestive Health
· by Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics
MOS and FOS – The Role They Play In Dogs Gut Health
The Power of MOS and FOS: Enhancing Digestive Health in Dogs
Are you an owner concerned about your dog’s digestive health? In this article, we will explore the power of MOS and FOS in enhancing your dog’s digestive health.
MOS (Mannan-oligosaccharides) and FOS (Fructo-oligosaccharides) are prebiotics that can work wonders for your dog’s gut. These natural substances act as food for the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s digestive system, promoting a healthy balance of gut flora.
By incorporating MOS and FOS into your dog’s diet, you can help improve nutrient absorption, boost the immune system naturally, and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Moreover, these prebiotics aid in the prevention and treatment of digestive issues such as diarrhoea and constipation in dogs.
With the right balance of MOS and FOS, you can ensure that your furry friend’s digestive system functions optimally. So, join us as we explore the power of MOS and FOS and discover how they can contribute to your dog’s gut health and overall health and well-being.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the health benefits of specific types of dietary fibres, particularly Mannan-Oligosaccharides (MOS) and Fructo- oligosaccharides (FOS). These naturally occurring substances are known for their prebiotic properties, meaning they support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and enhance dogs’ immune system. This article aims to shed light on what MOS and FOS in dog food are – their sources, health benefits, and potential applications.
What are Mannan-Oligosaccharides (MOS)?
Mannan-Oligosaccharides are a type of polysaccharide, which are large molecules made up of sugar units. MOS are derived from the cell walls of yeast, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These oligosaccharides are known for their unique structure, which allows them to be utilised by beneficial gut bacteria, which supports dogs’ digestive system and microbiome..
Sources of MOS
MOS can be found in various natural sources, including:
Yeast cell walls
Some legumes (including beans, chickpeas, lentils and peas) (1)
However, most commercial MOS is extracted from yeast cell walls due to the consistency and high concentration of the end product. (3)
Is MOS a Probiotic?
No MOS is not a probiotic, but a prebiotic. Derived from mannan, a non-starch polysaccharide, mannan-oligosaccharides do not compete with food and are considered second-generation prebiotics [2]. MOS are not digestible, passing through to the colon providing ‘food’ for bacterial probiotic microbiota, particularly, Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.
Is MOS Good for Dogs?
The short answer is yes, MOS is good for dogs. They confer many benefits for dog health including:
Improving gut microflora balance
Has immune-modulating properties
Improves stool consistency
Reduces faecal odour
What are Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS)?
Fructo-oligosaccharides are a group of oligosaccharides that occur naturally in various plants. FOS consists of short fructose chains and are classified as soluble fibres. They are notable for their sweet flavour and are often used as low-calorie sweeteners. They are not digested until they enter the colon and are commonly classed as prebiotics assisting in the support of gut health.
FOS is not a probiotic, but is well understood as a prebiotic. Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of soluble fibre, specifically a water-soluble carbohydrate, which serves as food and nourishment for our gut bacteria. These fibres are found naturally in a variety of plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Unlike other nutrients, FOS fibres are not digestible by dogs or humans. Rather, they play a crucial role in selectively fostering the proliferation of highly beneficial bacterial species that reside in our digestive system.
Are FOS Good for Dogs?
Yes, FOS are good for dogs. They contribute to dog health in the following ways:
Support the gastrointestinal tract by helping to balance and maintain the number of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
Support improved mineral absorption
Support bone and joint health
Understanding Digestive Health in Dogs
A dog’s digestive system is a complex network of organs that work together to break down food and absorb nutrients. Just like humans, dogs can experience digestive issues that can range from mild discomfort to more serious conditions. Common digestive problems in dogs include diarrhoea, constipation, and gastrointestinal inflammation including IBD (inflamed bowel disease), Colitis and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), although this is a far less common issue than the former.
Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for your dog’s overall well-being. A healthy gut ensures proper nutrient absorption, supports a strong immune system, and reduces the risk of digestive disorders. That’s where MOS and FOS come in.
The role of MOS in improving digestive health
MOS, short for Mannan-oligosaccharides, is a type of prebiotic that acts as food for the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that promote the growth of good bacteria while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. MOS specifically targets harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, helping to maintain a healthy balance of gut flora.
When MOS is introduced into a dog’s diet, it binds to the harmful bacteria in the digestive tract, preventing them from attaching to the intestinal walls and causing damage. This helps to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal infections and improves overall digestive health. Additionally, MOS enhances nutrient absorption by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that aid in the breakdown and utilisation of nutrients. (4)
Benefits of MOS for dogs
Incorporating MOS into your dog’s diet can have numerous benefits for their digestive health. Firstly, MOS helps to improve stool quality by reducing the risk of diarrhoea and loose stools. This is especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive upsets.
Secondly, MOS supports a strong immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies and enhancing the function of immune cells in the gut. A healthy gut immune system is essential for protecting your dog against infections and diseases. (5)
Furthermore, MOS has been shown to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating in dogs. By promoting a healthy balance of gut flora, MOS helps to regulate the digestive process, reducing the risk of gas build-up and discomfort.
FOS: A Beneficial Prebiotic for Digestive Health
While MOS is a powerful prebiotic, it works even more effectively when combined with FOS, or Fructo-oligosaccharides. FOS is another type of prebiotic that acts as a food source for beneficial bacteria in the gut (6). When MOS and FOS are consumed together, they work synergistically to promote optimal digestive health. (7, 8)
FOS is particularly effective in promoting the growth of Bifidobacteria, a beneficial bacteria species that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut. These bacteria help to break down complex carbohydrates and produce short-chain fatty acids, which provide energy for the cells lining the intestines. (9)
By incorporating both MOS and FOS into your dog’s diet, you can ensure a diverse and thriving population of beneficial bacteria in their digestive system. This is key to maintaining a healthy gut and preventing digestive issues.
How MOS and FOS Work Together to Support Optimal Digestive Health
When MOS and FOS are consumed together, they create an ideal environment for beneficial bacteria to thrive. MOS acts as a binding agent, preventing harmful bacteria from attaching to the intestinal walls, while FOS provides a nourishing food source for beneficial bacteria. (10)
The combination of MOS and FOS promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome (11). These bacteria help to break down food, produce essential nutrients, and regulate the digestive process.
Additionally, MOS and FOS have been shown to enhance the production of short-chain fatty acids, which provide energy for the cells lining the intestines and support a healthy gut barrier function. This helps to prevent the leakage of toxins and harmful bacteria into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of systemic inflammation.
Choosing Dog Foods with MOS and FOS
When it comes to selecting the right dog food for your furry friend, it’s important to choose a formula that contains MOS and FOS. Many reputable pet food brands now include these prebiotics in their formulas to support digestive health.
When reading the ingredients list on a dog food label, look for terms such as “MOS,” “FOS,” or “prebiotics.” These indicate that the formula contains these beneficial ingredients. Additionally, opt for high-quality dog foods that use natural, easily digestible ingredients and avoid artificial additives and fillers.
It’s worth noting that not all dogs require the same level of MOS and FOS in their diet. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of prebiotics for your dog based on their age, size, and specific digestive needs.
Supplementing with MOS and FOS for dogs with digestive issues
If your dog is experiencing digestive issues such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a sensitive stomach, supplementing their diet with additional MOS and FOS, and a probiotic, can provide extra support.
There are various supplement options available specifically designed to promote digestive health in dogs. These supplements typically come in powder or chewable form and can be easily added to your dog’s food. When choosing a supplement, look for a reputable brand that uses high-quality, natural ingredients.
Before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can recommend the most suitable supplement for your dog’s specific needs and provide guidance on the appropriate dosage.
Other Natural Ways to Support Digestive Health in Dogs
In addition to incorporating MOS and FOS into your dog’s diet, there are other natural ways to support their digestive health.
1. Probiotics: Consider adding a probiotic supplement to your dog’s diet. Probiotics are live bacteria that provide a direct source of beneficial bacteria for the gut. They can help restore the balance of gut flora and support healthy digestion.
2. Digestive enzymes: Some dogs may benefit from the addition of digestive enzymes to their diet. These enzymes help break down food and optimise nutrient absorption, especially for dogs with pancreatic insufficiency or other digestive disorders.
3. Dietary fibre: A moderate amount of dietary fibre can support healthy digestion in dogs. Fibre helps regulate bowel movements and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria. However, excessive fibre intake can lead to loose stools, so it’s important to find the right balance.
4. Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing constipation.
5. Stress management: Just like humans, dogs can experience digestive issues when they are stressed or anxious. Create a calm and stress-free environment for your dog, and consider using natural calming aids if needed.
There is an ever-growing body of research that points the the significant importance of the gut-brain axis and the impact a healthy gut microbiome has for both human and dog health.
MOS and FOS provide valuable prebiotic support for probiotics and in turn our dog’s best digestive health.
Bonza, a plant-based dog food, views the importance of gut health as a primary deliverer of our dogs best best health and longevity well into their senior years.
As a naturally hypoallergenic dog food, Bonza contains none of the known major allergens (with no corn, wheat and soy) making it an excellent food choice for dogs with digestive and sensitive stomach issues.
About Glendon Lloyd Dip.Canine.Nutrition Dip.Dog.Nutrigenomics
I have had dogs from the day I was born. Much to my Mum's amusement, my Dad bought home Zetta, a beautiful corgi pupp , as his contribution to our new family!
Fast forward to 2018 and Catherine, my wife, and one of our dogs Poppy, were both diagnosed and treated for cancer within months of each other
Diet and its impact on health, cancer particularly, led me down a rabbit hole of discovery.
I consumed information voraciously - on our diets, our dogs' diets and the impact these have not just on health but also the health of our increasingly fragile planet.
I was humbled by the time and expertise given so freely by doctors and vets, canine nutritionists and scientists, academics and agronomists. The more I learned the more I understood there had to be a better way to improve not just our health but also our dogs and the planet's.
The result of my trip down that rabbit hole is Bonza, a plant-based dog food (and now supplements) that elevate our dogs' diet beyond simple nutrition to a diet that inspires a healthier everyday life for our dogs and the planet.
I am continually researching the nutritional impact our dogs' diets have on their health and wellbeing and the ingredients and nutrients we should include in, and exclude from, their food to deliver longer, healthier lives.
I am delighted that my trip down the rabbit hole has led to me completing a Diploma in Canine Nutrigenomics and a Diploma in Canine Nutrition being awarded a Distinction for both my coursework and theses!
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