Glossary of Nutrition
ANTIOXIDANTS An antioxidant is a molecule capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Although oxidation reactions are crucial for life, too much can be damaging. An overabundance of oxidation reactions in your pet’s body can produce free radicals, which start chain reactions that damage cells.
AVENANTHRAMIDES Antioxidant compounds unique to oats, called avenanthramides, help prevent free radicals from damaging LDL cholesterol, suggests a study conducted at Tufts University and published in The Journal of Nutrition.
CARNOSIC ACID may shield the brain from free radicals, lowering the risk of brain related diseases and cognitive malfunction.
CHOLINE Choline is a key component of many fat-containing structures in cell membranes, whose flexibility and integrity depend on adequate supplies of choline. Choline is particularly important for brain function and health. In addition, choline is a highly important molecule in a cellular process called methylation. Many important chemical events in the body are made possible by methylation, in which methyl groups are transferred from one place to another. Cells use methylation to send messages back and forth. Higher intake of choline may help reduce inflammation.
CINNALDEHYDE, CINNAMYL ACETATE and CINNAMYL ALCOHOL The cinnaldehyde in cinnamon helps prevent unwanted clumping of blood platelets. Cinnamon has been studied for its ability to help stop the growth of bacteria as well as fungi, including the problematic yeast Candida. Finally, seasoning a high carb food with cinnamon can help lessen its impact on blood sugar levels, by slowing the rate at which a dogs stomach empties after meals. This reduces the rise in blood sugar after eating.
DUCK FAT is great for skin & coat. It contains 35.7% saturates, 50.5% monounsaturates (high in linoleic acid) and 13.7% polyunsaturated fats.(Which contains Omega-6 and Omega-3 essential oils). Duck Fat turns into a liquid at 76 degrees Farenheit, which means it is more heart healthy than solid oils like butter or lard.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) DHA is the most abundant omega three fatty acid in the brain and retina. DHA deficiency is associated with cognitive decline. There is less DHA available in the average diet due to consumption of more grain fed and less free range meat. DHA is widely believed to be helpful in the prevention of heart disease, to support healthy brain development and to contribute to joint health.
FREE RADICALS An atom or group of atoms that has at least one unpaired electron and is therefore unstable and highly reactive. In animal tissues, free radicals can damage cells and are believed to accelerate the progression of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related diseases.
LIGNANS The lignans are a group of chemical compounds found in plants. Lignans are one of the major classes of phytoestrogens, which are estrogen-like chemicals and also act as antioxidants
LINOLEIC ACID is an essential fatty acid that is a dietary requirement for all mammals. Linoleic acid contributes to a healthy skin & coat. A lack of linoleic acid can cause dry fur, fur loss and poor wound healing.
MAGNESIUM Studies of magnesium in humans has been shown the reduction of the severity of asthma and the reduction of the frequency of migraine attacks. Magnesium has also been shown to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack, especially in people with atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease.
METHYLATION Many important chemical events in the body are made possible by methylation, in which methyl groups are transferred from one place to another. Cells use methylation to send messages back and forth.
NIACIN Components of DNA require Niacin – and a lack of niacin has been directly linked to genetic (DNA) damage.
OXIDATION is the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state by a molecule, atom or ion
PHOSPHORUS is a key element in all known forms of life and plays a major role in DNA and RNA where it forms part of the structural framework for these molecures.
PHYTOCHEMICALS Phytochemicals are chemical compounds that occur naturally in plants. Examples: Taxol (aclitaxel) is an important cancer drug derived from the Pacific Yew Tree. Aspirin (salicin) that has anti inflammatory and pain relieving properties is derived from the Willow Tree. Lutein, derived from marigold, is known to positively affect visual performance and help prevent cataracts. Lycopene, derived from tomatoes, is thought to prevent certain types of cancers.
POTASSIUM Potassium acts as an electrolyte,taking on a positive or negative charge that helps regulate blood pressure, muscle contraction and keep your pet’s bodily processes working right. Potassium's other role in the body is to help in the metabolism of sugar to glycogen to provide energy for daily tasks. Glycogen can be stored by the muscles and liver and released when the body calls for it. Thus another of the benefits of potassium is in helping your pet store energy for later use without converting it to fat.
ROSMARINIC ACID has a number of interesting biological activities, including antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory and antioxidant.
SELENIUM Selenium is an essential component of several major metabolic pathways, including thyroid metabolism, antioxidant defense systems, and immune system. Research also indicates consumption of niacin rich foods provides protection against age related cognitive decline.
THYMOL derived from the herb thyme, is known to kill bacteria and fungi and is the key active ingredient in Listerine™ mouthwash.
VITAMIN B6 is essential for the body's processing of carbohydrate (sugar and starch), especially the breakdown of glycogen, the form in which sugar is stored in muscle cells and to a lesser extent in the liver. A lack of vitamin B6 contributes to anemia.
VITAMIN B12 Vitamin B12 is needed for normal nerve cell activity, DNA replication, and production of the mood-affecting substance SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine). Vitamin B12 acts with folic acid and vitamin B6 to control homocysteine levels. An excess of homocysteine is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and potentially other diseases such as osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease