Dr. Elliott: Natural Fruits For Your Pet

In today’s world globalization of commerce, new and exciting products are being tested and utilized for dog well being. Many of these products are available at local health food stores, and some pet companies are using these new products in pet foods, treats and supplements. For both humans and pets, some of these incredible ingredients have been in use for thousands of years. Let’s look at some of these intriguing and wonderful products from Mother Nature:

Chia - Remember the old chia pet? Well this tiny morsel has an abundance of healthy nutrients and health benefits, including: natural omega-3 fatty acid oils, antioxidants that may help against Diabetes Mellitus, and tumors; it may also be valuable against viral, fungal and bacterial problems. Chia, known to be a good source of fiber and protein, is a gluten free product. This may be the new super-food of 2010!

Broccoli and Kale Sprouts - This amazing combination is a power-combo to fighting cancer. Recent tests have shown them to comprise an abundance of essential nutrients.

Broccoli contains nutrients such as:

• Vitamins A, B, C, E and K
• Calcium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Zinc
• Carotene
• Chlorophyll
• Amino Acids and Antioxidants
• Sulphoraphane (a rich source of the cancer fighting substance)

Kale Sprouts have one of the highest levels of antioxidants of any sprout or vegetable, containing a significant amount of:

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin (prevent eye problems)
• Phytochemicals and Sulhoraphane (high levels of anti-cancer elements)
• Calcium
• B-Vitamins
• Fiber
• Chlorophyll

Yumberry - This custard-tasting berry is rich in many vitamins such as Vitamin C, and OPCs. These compounds reportedly strengthen the capillaries. Yumberry also contains extra benefits, such as:

• Fights free radicals
• Lowers bad cholesterol
• Fighting arthritic inflammation
• Helps reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer
• Protects against urinary tract infections

Banaba - Banaba has long been in use in the Philippines as an aid for managing blood sugar. Interestingly, scientists have now found that Banaba leaves are high in corosolic acid, also known as "plant insulin." This acid, along with several other constituents of Banaba, encourages the use of glucose as fuel and produces insulin-like effects. Therefore, Banaba may be very helpful for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Cili Fruit - What a name! I call it “Silly Fruit.” Cili Fruit contains an abundant source of vitamin C, and also contains other valuable antioxidants such as:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin E
• Polyphenols
• Polysaccharides
• Carotenoids
• Roxburghic acids
• Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) (another potent antioxidant!)
• Vitamin B complex
• Tannic acid
• Essential amino acids and trace elements such as selenium and zinc.

In addition, Cili is a source of essential fatty acids rarely found in fruit! Cili fruit works synergistically to support healthy capillaries and collagen in skin, joints, and tendons. Vitamin C and Vitamin A bolster the immune system, while Vitamin E and Vitamin A are both helpful for skin and eye health.

Fedegoso - This Amazonian tree’s benefits have been in use since the 9th century. The leaf extract helps the liver eliminate toxins, normalizes liver enzymes and revitalizes the liver. Immune stimulation activity can protect against bacterial and fungal problems. Fedegoso may help damaged liver cells from turning into cancerous ones.

Cipo Cabeludo - Another wonderful herb from our South American family is popular on a global scale as a superior diuretic. Cipo Cabeludo is an aid for conditions such as:

• Urinary tract problems
• Kidney stones and other kidney problems
• High uric acid levels
• General pain

Cipo contains coumarin, and may have beneficial effects on a broad range of bacteria. In 2000, a Japanese company tested this herb and found that four elements of the herb showed activity against leukemia cells.

If you have any questions, please e-mail me at pethealer@gmail.com.

For quality pet food and treats and supplements, please visit www.doctorsfinest.com.