Cancer is one of the most common health issues amongst dogs, but there are some ways to help minimise your dog’s risk. The right foods can not only provide essential nutrition, but they also have cancer-fighting properties that can keep your pooch healthy and cancer-free. Here are the top 10 foods to help reduce the risk of cancer in dogs. Research into the role plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients play in the diet of dogs are revealing that there are potential nutritional and health benefits of including them into our pet's diet.
Foods Linked to a Lower Risk of Cancer In Dogs
1. Blueberries
Blueberries are pac
ked with antioxidants and have strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of your dog developing cancer. They also provide fibre, vitamins, and minerals to keep your pup healthy and prevent cancer growth. Plus, dogs love their sweet taste! Try adding a handful of blueberries to your pooch’s meals or giving them as treats. The Yours Droolly natural Beef with blueberry dog treats also contains healthy coconut oil!
2. Fish Oil for dogs
We know the benefits of incorporating fish into our diets and many studies have linked longevity to eating a healthy well balanced 'Mediterranean' style diet. Including fish in your dog's diet is one way to make sure that they receive the same health benefits as we do! Many pet owners give their dogs fish oil as a dietary supplement for their overall health. Its anti-inflammatory properties are particularly beneficial for cancer prevention, as inflammation is linked to the development of cancer. It also has omega-3 fatty acids that can help to reduce cell damage and protect against tumor growth.
Diets that include fish or fish oil supplements support cardiovascular health in
dogs. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy heart function. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve blood flow throughout the body. They also help protect against arrhythmias and other heart problems. Adding fish or fish oil supplements to your dog's diet can help keep their cardiovascular system functioning optimally.
management of other disorders. Clinical studies support feeding fish or fish oil supplements in the reduction of the incidence of heart disease and some cancers and as immunosuppressors.
Make sure you consult with your veterinarian before giving your pup any fish oil supplements to ensure the dosage you’re giving is appropriate for your dog’s size and health history.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most researched spices in the world and has a wide range of health benefits. It helps to reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for cancer prevention. Additionally, turmeric can help with digestion and improve overall heart health. You can add a sprinkle of turmeric powder to your pup’s food or buy organic turmeric treats specifically made for dogs. Remember, turmeric has a strong flavour that many dogs won't like.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can help to fight against cancer cells and offers plenty of other health benefits. Its natural antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties can help your pup fight off infections, viruses, and fungi. You can give your dog a teaspoon of coconut oil daily or mix it into their meals for a boost of natural flavor. It’s important to buy organic, unrefined coconut oil as that is the most nutritious for your pup.
5. Kale and other cruciferous vegetables
Kale, broccoli, and cauliflower are members of the cruciferous family and contain substances called glucosinolates. Glucosinolates help to detoxify carcinogens in your dog’s body which reduces the risk of cancer. Glucosinolates are found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, and cabbage. They can also be found in some herbs like mustard seed and horseradish. Additionally, these veggies provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to boost the immune system and protect against inflammation. Serve your dog a small portion of steamed or lightly boiled kale or other cruciferous vegetables as a side dish to their regular food. Natural dog food diets that contain these vegetables include the Man's Best Dog Food range. You may find that this range is far more appetising than a side serving of boiled cruciferous vegetables!
6. Flaxseed
Flaxseed is a powerful cancer-fighting food that should be included in your dog's diet. This superfood is packed with fiber, essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals - all of which are known to help reduce the risk of cancer development in both dogs and humans. Adding flaxseed to your dog's meals is an excellent way to keep them healthy and reduce their risk of developing cancer!
7. Sweet potatoes
Add sweet potatoes to your pup's diet! This nutritious root vegetable is a great source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that could potentially reduce the risk of cancer. Plus, dogs love them!
8. Pumpkin
Adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet might just be the secret weapon for fighting cancer. This squash is rich in beta-carotene and fiber, making it a great source of many nutrients necessary for canine health. The nutrients found in pumpkin can help reduce their risk of developing cancer, keeping them happy and healthy!
9. Apples
Apples are a superfood when it comes to fighting cancer in dogs. They contain natural antioxidants and other important phytonutrients that help protect cells from damage, inflammation and other forms of disease. Adding apples to your dog's diet can provide some additional protection against cancer pain, illness, and even potentially speed up healing times.
10. Garlic
If you're looking to beef up your dog's cancer-fighting diet, garlic should be a staple. Garlic contains compounds that can help boost your dog's immune system and lower their risk of developing cancer.
Dietary supplements should never replace a healthy well balanced diet for your dog. Modern dog food diets are now incorporating many cancer-fighting ingredients into their recipes. We have a range of premium balanced dog food that is packed with the super foods now recognised as having cancer -preventing properties. Next time you buy your dog food, check that it contains ingredients with the potential nutritional and health benefits of these ingredients as a part of a balanced diet.
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