Do you have an older dog that seems to be low on energy? It may be because he isn’t getting enough antioxidants in his diet.
Have you heard of resveratrol? This antioxidant that’s been making waves in the veterinary community recently for its broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological effects, as well as its nutritional and medicinal value. If your dog has been tired and low on energy, he may benefit from taking resveratrol supplements. Let’s take a closer look at why resveratrol is gaining so much attention from vets and pet parents!
The role of antioxidants
The oxidative metabolism is the chemical process in dogs (and humans) in which oxygen is used to make energy from carbohydrates (sugars). It is one of the main causes of metabolic waste in the body and is known to generate “free radicals”, which are a type of unstable molecule that can cause damage to other molecules such as DNA.
Antioxidants are chemical compounds that a dog’s metabolism uses to eliminate these free radicals. This in turn can help reduce fatigue in older dogs and help those who are suffering from low energy or age-related diseases like sarcopenia.
Resveratrol: a natural antioxidant!
Sarcopenia is a disease that occurs in older dogs that is characterized by the loss of muscle mass, strength and function. Signs and symptoms include weakness, tiredness, lack of energy, balance problems and difficulty walking and standing. Sarcopenia is a common effect of too many free radicals that are not being controlled by antioxidants.
In a recent study, resveratrol was found to reduce oxidative stress and improve strength and muscle mass in older dogs. “The investigation has shown that the supplementation of the diet with a formula containing resveratrol and tocopherol acetate can control and reduce the occurrence of sarcopenia and increase the speed of bone remodeling,” says Dr. Enzo Ferro, staff veterinarian at Juvenia Pets. “Since these conditions are increasing in the dog population due to longer life spans, the use of antioxidant supplementation could be useful in improving the quality of life of pets.”
Boost your dog’s resveratrol intake
Looking for a way to add resveratrol to your dog’s diet? Add a tablespoon of natural peanut butter to a vessel toy such as a Kong! Not only will this provide him with some mental stimulation, it’ll give him a boost of resveratrol’s healthful properties. You can also add a handful of blueberries to his daily meals or offer him a supplement that contains this antioxidant. Juvenia Pets offers resveratrol in the form of a gel and a chewable tablet that are great for dogs with low energy. They help decrease oxidative stress and skeletal muscle loss, and can also decrease bone loss and DNA loss from free radicals.
Resveratrol can be a valuable and nutritious addition to your dog’s diet, and it’s a great way to help increase your dog’s energy if he’s appeared tired or listless. Always consult your vet if your dog’s energy levels seem abnormal – and while you’re there, ask him or her about resveratrol!
For more information visit juveniapets.com.
