Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Dogs with Cancer: Nutritional Therapy

Impact of Diet for Dogs With Cancer

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
   • Overview of cancer in dogs
   • Importance of diet in managing canine cancer
   • Role of inflammation in cancer progression
2. Understanding the Role of Inflammation in Canine Cancer
   • Nature of inflammation and its chronic effects
   • Dietary factors exacerbating inflammation
   • The impact of meat and fat consumption on inflammation
3. Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Dogs with Cancer
   • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Sources and benefits
   • Turmeric: Properties and usage
   • Leafy Green Vegetables: Types and preparation
   • Berries: Varieties and nutritional benefits
   • Mushrooms: Immune-enhancing varieties
   • Probiotics and Fermented Foods: Gut health and inflammation
   • Carrots, Coconut Oil, and Pumpkin: Benefits and usage
   • Cranberries and Plums: Antioxidant properties
   • Peaches and Baobab: Nutritional impact
   • Cruciferous Vegetables: Components and cancer-inhibiting properties
4. Mechanisms of Impact from Anti-Inflammatory Foods
   • Reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage
   • Modulating immune responses
   • Inhibiting cancer cell proliferation
   • Supporting detoxification and gut health
   • Energy metabolism in cancer management
5. Implementing an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
   • Transitioning to an anti-inflammatory diet
   • Monitoring and adjusting the diet
   • The role of veterinary professionals in diet formulation
6. Conclusion
   • Summarising the dietary approach to canine cancer management
   • Future perspectives on nutrition and canine health

Cancer in dogs, much like in humans, is a multifaceted disease that can be influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors, including diet. Many veterinary oncologists with a focus on nutritional therapy, provide first hand knowledge of the pivotal role that diet plays in the management of canine cancer. A key component of this dietary management is the incorporation of anti-inflammatory foods. Inflammation is a critical element in the progression of cancer, promoting tumour growth and metastasis. Therefore, addressing inflammation through diet can be a powerful adjunct to conventional cancer treatments.

Understanding the Role of Inflammation in Canine Cancer

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or disease. However, chronic inflammation can lead to DNA damage and support the cancerous environment within a dog’s body. Research indicates that diets high in certain fats, sugars, and processed foods can exacerbate inflammation, while other foods possess natural anti-inflammatory properties that can potentially slow the progression of cancer.

Growing evidence highlights the link between consumption of meat, especially red meat, and its potential carcinogenic effects. (1) This observation extends beyond human dietary habits to include canine diets as well. One notable issue in contemporary diets for both humans and dogs is the skewed ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids, which tends towards pro-inflammatory outcomes.

The significant consequence of this imbalance is inflammation and oxidative stress within the organism, leading to cellular mutations and the subsequent emergence of cancers.

The contribution of chronic inflammation to the genesis of cancer is far from negligible. It is estimated that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the development of approximately 20% of cancers. (2) During an inflammatory response, immune cells release substances designed to eliminate pathogens. However, these substances, known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), can also harm the DNA of healthy cells, elevating the mutation risk that might culminate in cancer. (3)

A study led by Giulia Alessandri et al. has underscored the finding that diets rich in meat tend to offer lesser protection against inflammatory processes in the canine gut than plant-based foods, suggesting a link to dietary choices and gut health in dogs. (4)

Given the paramount importance of nutrition in the natural management of cancer in dogs, prioritising a diet abundant in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components is crucial. Such a dietary approach aims to mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby reducing the risk of cellular mutations and the potential onset of cancer.

Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Dogs with Cancer

When considering dietary changes for a dog with cancer, it’s essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist or a vet knowledgeable in canine oncology to tailor the diet to your dog’s specific needs. Here are several foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial foods for dogs with cancer:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in seaweed and algae, fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, omega-3 fatty acids, particularly the Omega-3 fatty acids DHA, EPA and relatively unknown DPA, can reduce inflammation and have been shown to slow the growth of cancerous tumours. Seaweed powder (and fish oil supplements) can also be a concentrated source of omega-3s but should be used under veterinary guidance to ensure the correct dosage and purity.
2. Turmeric: Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It can be added to your dog’s diet in small amounts, often in a formulation designed for pets to ensure absorbability and prevent gastrointestinal upset.
3. Leafy Green Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that can help combat inflammation. These should be cooked and pureed or finely chopped to enhance digestibility for dogs.
4. Berries: Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are high in antioxidants and vitamins that support immune function and reduce inflammation. They should be given in moderation due to their sugar content.
5. Mushrooms: Certain mushrooms like reishi, shiitake, and maitake contain beta-glucans which have immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects. Mushroom supplements specifically formulated for pets can be an excellent way to incorporate these benefits.
6. Probiotics and Fermented Foods: A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health and can influence inflammation levels. Probiotics and probiotic supplements and fermented foods like kefir or low-fat plain yogurt can support gut health.
7. Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Beta-carotene possesses antioxidant properties that help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This mechanism can be especially beneficial in a cancer context, as oxidative stress contributes to cancer progression.
8. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are fats that the body can easily digest and convert to energy. One of the MCTs, lauric acid, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. While research on coconut oil’s direct effect on cancer is ongoing, its potential to support energy metabolism and reduce inflammation makes it a candidate for inclusion in a cancer-supportive diet.
9. Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a low-calorie food rich in fibre and antioxidants, including beta-carotene. The high fibre content supports gut health and normal bowel function, which is vital for dogs undergoing cancer treatment. The antioxidants help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress, potentially mitigating cancer progression.
10. Cranberries: Cranberries are another excellent source of antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. These compounds can help prevent the adhesion of certain bacteria to the urinary tract walls, promoting urinary health—an important consideration for dogs with cancer, as they may be more prone to infections due to compromised immune systems.
11. Plums: Plums contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that may have anti-inflammatory effects. Their high content of phenols, particularly anthocyanins, can help in reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. This protective effect can be beneficial for dogs with cancer, as it may help reduce the risk of further mutations and support overall health.
12. Peach: Peaches offer a wealth of antioxidants, including vitamin C, chlorogenic acid, and beta-carotene. These compounds can contribute to reducing inflammation and protecting cells from oxidative stress. The presence of these antioxidants in a dog’s diet can support immune function and potentially slow cancer progression by mitigating oxidative damage to cells.
13. Baobab: Baobab is a relatively new addition to the list of superfoods and is notable for its high vitamin C content, antioxidants, and dietary fibres. The antioxidants found in baobab can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Its high fibre content also promotes gut health, which is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system in dogs with cancer.
14. Cruciferous Vegetables: This category of vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage, are highly regarded for their nutritional benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. These vegetables are rich in glucosinolates, sulphur-containing compounds that, when broken down during digestion, produce biologically active compounds like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. These compounds have been studied for their potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and their ability to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancerous cells.

How Anti-Inflammatory Foods Impact Cancers in Dogs: Mechanisms of Physiological Impact

The inclusion of anti-inflammatory foods in the diet of dogs with cancer can have a profound impact on the physiological mechanisms that influence cancer progression. The primary ways these foods exert their effects include:

• Reducing Oxidative Stress: Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing damage to cells’ DNA. This mechanism is crucial in cancer, as oxidative stress contributes to the initiation and progression of tumorigenesis.
• Modulating the Immune Response: Many anti-inflammatory foods support the immune system, enhancing the body’s ability to fight cancer. They can improve the function of immune cells, such as T cells and natural killer cells, which play a role in identifying and destroying cancer cells.
• Inhibiting Cancer Cell Proliferation: Certain compounds found in these foods can directly affect cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and proliferation. For example, curcumin in turmeric has been shown to interfere with several signalling pathways that cancer cells use to grow and spread.
• Supporting Detoxification and Gut Health: Foods high in fibre, such as pumpkin and baobab, promote a healthy digestive system, which is vital for the elimination of toxins and the absorption of nutrients. A healthy gut microbiome also plays a role in modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation.
• Energy Metabolism: Ingredients like coconut oil provide a direct source of energy for dogs, which is particularly important for those battling cancer. The efficient energy conversion of MCTs helps maintain body weight and muscle mass, supporting overall health and resilience.

Incorporating these anti-inflammatory foods into a dog’s diet should be approached with care, ensuring that each addition is suitable for the dog’s specific health condition and dietary needs. A holistic dietary strategy, developed in consultation with veterinary professionals, can optimize the therapeutic potential of food in supporting dogs through their cancer treatment, enhancing their quality of life and potentially slowing disease progression.

Implementing an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Transitioning your dog to an anti-inflammatory diet should be done gradually and under veterinary supervision. Start by introducing new foods in small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions. It’s also crucial to maintain a balanced diet that meets all your dog’s nutritional needs, especially when dealing with cancer. Commercial diets designed for dogs with cancer are available, but homemade diets, when formulated with a professional’s guidance, can also be highly beneficial.

While no diet can cure cancer, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can support your dog’s overall health and potentially improve their quality of life. It’s an approach that complements traditional cancer treatments, focusing on creating an internal environment less conducive to cancer growth. Remember, each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Collaboration with a veterinary professional skilled in both oncology and nutritional therapy is essential to devise a dietary plan that best supports your dog’s specific condition.

In conclusion, embracing an anti-inflammatory diet for dogs with cancer is about more than just adding certain foods; it’s part of a holistic approach to cancer care that emphasises quality of life and disease management. Through careful consideration and professional guidance, diet can become a powerful tool in the fight against cancer in our canine companions.

Bonza Superfood and Ancient Grains is a premium vegan dog food that contains a nutritionist formulated blend of many of the quality ingredients listed above. The recipe also includes PhytoPlus®, a proprietary blend of natural plant-based phytonutrients formulated to support your dog against the most common health issues dogs suffer from as well as the chronic diseases, including cancer, they increasingly face.

Whilst it would be a leap of faith, and frankly dishonest, to claim that Bonza might in any way prevent, let alone cure, cancer in dogs, we set out to develop a food to provide your dog with its best chance of reducing the likelihood based on current research, scientific knowledge and understanding of the dreadful disease, that increasingly affects so many of our dogs.