Immunity & Digestion

Colostrum

Colostrum is the first food secreted by the mother shortly after birth and contains a number of biologically active substances. These include antibodies that provide immunity to newborn animals, lactoferrin with antibacterial, antiviral and anticancer effects (1) and proline-rich polypeptides that promote the maturation of immune cells and regulate blood pressure (2, 3). The alpha-lactalbumin contained in colostrum has a protective effect on the gastric mucosa (4,5).

Studies in dogs show that feeding dogs a diet enriched with bovine colostrum supports the immune system (6), including the lymphoid tissue associated with the intestines, which may increase the body’s protection against pathogens entering through the intestines. Colostrum supplementation also supports the development of a normal, stable gut microflora and reduces the risk of diarrhoea in puppies (7).

It has been shown that the administration of bovine colostrum powder can reduce the risk and promote the treatment of gastroenteritis in animals and humans (8,9), so colostrum preparations are recommended for intestinal diseases and digestive disorders in dogs.

L-glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid present in the blood and muscle. It provides an energy source for colonocytes, the rapidly dividing cells lining the gastrointestinal tract (1). In addition, glutamine stimulates intestinal muscle growth, reduces inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, supports the function of colonocytes and reduces the penetration of bacteria and toxins through the intestinal walls. Glutamine also plays a role in immune processes by stimulating the activity of lymphocytes and interleukin-6 and protects skeletal muscles from damage during intense exercise.

The mammalian body is able to produce glutamine on its own in the quantities necessary for the proper functioning of the digestive tract. However, the demand for glutamine increases significantly in the case of disease and damage within the gastrointestinal tract (2), which may require additional supplementation. Deficiency of this amino acid can lead to diarrhoea, atrophy of the intestinal villi responsible for nutrient absorption and the formation of ulcers (3).

Studies in dogs show that L-glutamine supplementation alleviates the risk of gastric irritation and reduces the risk of gastric ulcers caused by the administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (4). It has also been shown that glutamine supplementation can reduce the penetration of bacteria across a damaged intestinal barrier, stimulate the immune system to fight pathogens and significantly speed up recovery (5). It has also been suggested that glutamine administration may protect the intestinal mucosa during chemotherapy and support kidney function.

Beta-glucan

Beta-glucans are an indigestible, probiotic fibre derived from the cell wall of yeast. In the intestines, it is fermented by bacteria that are part of the gastrointestinal microflora. Beta-glucan supplementation is recommended for digestive disorders, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and during periods of reduced immunity.

Studies show that enriching the diet of dogs with beta-glucans supports the immune system (1) and improves the effectiveness of preventive vaccinations in puppies (2). It may also promote the development of a normal gastrointestinal microflora and increase the production of volatile fatty acids, which provide an energy source for intestinal cells (3). Beta-glucan supplementation also alleviates symptoms of IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) in dogs by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory factors (4). Furthermore, feeding a diet enriched with beta-glucans can reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in dogs suffering from obesity and insulin resistance (5)

Inulin

Inulin is a natural prebiotic – a dietary fibre that, undigested, reaches the intestines and becomes a food for the microflora of the digestive tract. In addition, enriching the diet with inulin can help regulate blood cholesterol and lipid levels, support normal digestive processes and improve the excretion of toxic metabolites from the body.

The presence of a normal gastrointestinal microflora has been shown to have many benefits and includes, but is not limited to, protection against intestinal infections, inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, stimulation of the immune system and stimulation of intestinal function and increased absorption of nutrients (1).

Studies show that enriching the diet with inulin can significantly increase the production of volatile fatty acids responsible for nourishing intestinal cells (2), modify the composition of the intestinal microflora and promote glucose metabolism (3).

L-theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid present in green tea leaves. It has many health-promoting properties – most notably, it serves as a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage, can inhibit cancer development, boost metabolism, support immune system activity and relieve symptoms of stress.

Human and animal studies show that L-theanine supplementation can support gastrointestinal health by strengthening the intestinal barrier that protects the body from pathogen entry and reducing inflammation in the gut (1, 2), protecting liver cells from damage (3, 4) and increasing the production of volatile fatty acids (5), which are responsible for nourishing intestinal cells. It has also been shown that the administration of L-theanine can modify the composition of the intestinal microflora, inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms and increasing the proportion of health-promoting bacteria (6, 7).

L-theanine is also known for its stress-reducing properties. Numerous studies have shown that feeding dogs supplements with L-theanine can alleviate symptoms of stress, particularly those associated with sound phobia (8, 9). Reducing the anxiety experienced by the animal can have a positive impact on the health of the digestive system and reduce the risk of recurrent digestive disorders (10).