Antioxidants: good for you, good for your pet!
The beneficial effects of antioxidants on human health have been known for several decades now. Is it the same for animals?
Animal health research findings confirm that antioxidants are as crucial for our pets as they are for us. Indeed, they provide the same benefits and help protect against premature cell aging and certain diseases.
A powerful ally!
An antioxidant-rich diet helps maintain your pet's overall health and improve its quality of life. Here are some known benefits:
- Reduce inflammation
- Limit cellular damage
- Support the immune system
- Limit signs of premature aging
- Slow down cognitive decline
- Protect organs, skin, and coat
- Maintain long-term vitality and mobility
First, what’s an antioxidant?
Antioxidants are found in the diet as vitamins, trace elements or micronutrients. They help protect cells against the harmful effects of certain molecules called free radicals.
The metabolism of all living beings naturally produces free radicals. These are also found in food and in the environment. Some external factors can increase their production to a high level: age, stress, pollution, smoking (or second-hand smoke) and exposure to intense sunlight or to UV rays. When the immune system defends itself against these "aggressors", the production of free radicals accelerates.
Free radicals interact easily with other molecules and are particularly useful when attacking bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Unfortunately, when there are too many of them, they begin to cause damage to healthy cells. This is called oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause inflammation, chronic diseases and even cancer.
The role of antioxidants is to neutralize these free radicals in order to prevent them from damaging the cells. Several clinical studies in both humans and animals have demonstrated the power of antioxidants in strengthening the immune system. An immune system that is not overtaxed remains stronger and can better defend itself against diseases, thus prolonging the animal’s life.
A constant and sufficient supply of antioxidants maintains the body's ability to defend itself and limits the harmful effects of oxidative stress. When the antioxidant catches the free radical, it binds to it and removes it from circulation. If the production of free radicals increases, because the animal exercises more or because it ages, it is better to increase the availability of antioxidants.
The diet is therefore the key to providing an optimal level of antioxidants, adapted to the specific needs of the animal. The antioxidant content of our 1st Choice formulas has been carefully adjusted according to the dog breed (miniature & small or medium & large) and according to its life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
1st Choice does it all!
All our Maintenance formulas contain our Healthy Aging SOLUTION. It is a unique blend of natural plant extracts with antioxidant properties:
- Turmeric (curcuminoid)
- Clove (eugenol)
- Rosemary (carnosic acid)
- Grapefruit extract (naringin)
The health benefits of this polyphenol-rich blend have been CLINICALLY PROVEN:
- Reduces inflammation
- Reduces oxidative stress which is responsible for cell damage
- Reduces the signs of premature aging
In addition, all our formulas provide a complete supply of a wide variety of antioxidants: vitamins C and E, selenium, carotenoids and flavonoids, zinc, etc. These key ingredients help dogs fight free radicals, boost their immune system, limit inflammation, protect their skin and improve the quality of their coat.
Fighting the signs of aging - right from the start!
Antioxidants for the PUPPY?
Yes, it's never too early to start building a "protective shield" to help fight disease. The antioxidant-rich plant extracts in our Healthy Aging SOLUTION protect your puppy's cells from the effects of oxidative stress. Introduced at an early age, this blend is a preventive strategy for overall long-term health!
Antioxidants throughout the ADULT dog's life
Regular intake of antioxidants is beneficial throughout the animal's life. With the Healthy Aging SOLUTION, our ADULT formulas provide a steady supply of polyphenols to keep cellular damage to a minimum during the dog's most active years. By starting to take care of the immune system early on, it is possible to slow down the onset of some of the signs of premature aging and keep the dog as vital as possible for as long as possible!
Antioxidants for the SENIOR dog
The aging process is naturally accompanied by metabolic and physiological changes that gradually reduce the animal's quality of life. Joint problems, skin irritations and various diseases often appear. By providing a diet rich in antioxidants, it is possible to reduce oxidative stress, decrease inflammation and maintain mobility longer.
Slowing down the effects of early aging and cognitive decline also allows the senior dog to enjoy life to the fullest and be happy for a very long time. Our SENIOR formulas containing our Healthy Aging SOLUTION are part of our preventive strategy that takes care of the overall health and well-being of dogs!
Feed your dog with 1st Choice formulas, enriched with antioxidants and protect its health for life.
1st Choice Nutrition, how dogs live longer, healthier lives!