For many of us, our dogs are members of the family; we raise them from puppies, watch them grow into adults, and do our best to make certain that their lives are as long and happy as possible. One of the best ways to ensure your dog has plenty of years to spend together with you is to ensure that he (or she) is getting the proper nutrients to keep their immune system supercharged.
We’ve compiled a list of 4 of the top superfoods that may boost your dog’s immune system and keep them happy and healthy!
Turkey Tail Mushroom
Turkey Tail Mushrooms (also called Yunzhi Mushrooms) have been praised for a long time for the efficacy in supporting immune health in humans and dogs. A study on dogs at a prominent veterinary school reported that a compound in the mushrooms, polysaccharopeptide (PSP for short), showed to have a strong immune supporting effect. Your dog doesn’t have to be sick for Turkey Tail Mushrooms to have a positive effect. Using this supplement may improve the strength of your canine companion’s immune system.
Beta-Glucan
Beta-Glucans are strong immune-boosting compounds that don’t occur naturally in the body. Both humans and dogs have to rely on supplements or diet to get a good supply. You can find beta-glucans in a number of common foods, like barley, oats, rye, mushrooms, and yeast. For dogs, beta-glucans may help to moderate the immune system so that your dog’s immunity to infection is neither too weak nor too strong.
Spirulina
Spirulina is a microscopic algae that is named for it’s perfectly spiral shape, and has the highest level of digestible protein out of any edible plant. Spirulina also boasts the highest levels of beta carotene, vitamin B-12, and iron, all of which are vital nutrients in your dog’s daily diet.
In addition to plentiful nutrients and protein, spirulina contains phycocyanin, polysaccharides and sulfolipids, which are all natural immune-boosting compounds that may strengthen your dog’s health and ability to fight infections. Spirulina is a strong antioxidant and may support your dog’s gastrointestinal health.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a natural compound produced by plants to help them fight off bacteria or infections from foreign pathogens. Resveratrol can be found in a number of berries, like raspberries and blueberries, and in plants like Japanese knotweed. While scientists are still studying the numerous benefits of this substance, resveratrol has been shown to help moderate canine immune systems. There is also evidence that resveratrol may help regulate the inflammatory response in the body.