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Excerpt From HealthyPet Newsletter Dr Jane Bicks:

This month I would like to touch on the immune system because it is very important to your companion animal’s health and longevity. You probably know that a strong immune system is essential, but what is it and how does it work?

The immune system is made up of a complex and integrated arrangement of organs, tissues, white blood cells and antibodies. The system works by protecting the body from potentially harmful bacteria, microbes, viruses, toxins and parasites … fighting disease, infections and various pathogens. Although I could go on and on talking about this highly complex system, I would like to highlight two vital aspects of the immune system: antioxidants and the G.A.L.T.
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Antioxidants are the most commonly discussed nutrients in relation to the immune system because they protect the body by destroying harmful substances known as free radicals. Free radicals are formed inside the body as a by-product of metabolism and also in response to environmental elements, like exposure to ultraviolet light, air pollution, etc. In order to support healthy immune function, it is vital that your pet gets enough antioxidants to disarm harmful free radicals.

Fruits, vegetables and grasses are full of powerful antioxidants. Actually, I believe that Life’s Abundance Premium Health Food was one of the first brands to include antioxidants from whole foods. Dogs and cats need antioxidants from a wide variety of foods, including squash, zucchini, rice germ, flax seed meal, herbs, liver, and natural vitamin E. You can give your dog apples, pears and other fruits. Fresh veggies work well for dogs and occasionally for cats. I have a cat that carries raw string beans in her mouth and howls as though it is something important, and eventually eats most of it.

Another critical part of the immune system is found in the intestines or the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue (G.A.L.T.), which communicates with the immune cells located throughout the body. In some respects, the G.A.L.T. is the first line of defense in the body. That’s why Life’s Abundance foods and other HealthyPetNet products contain a special fiber and mix of friendly bacteria to support intestinal health.

We all want the very best for our beloved animals. We should feel fortunate to live in a time when breakthroughs in medical research help us to help them live longer and happier lives. Thanks to the solid research we now have regarding immune and GI health, we are pleased to bring you a truly superior line of food, treat and supplement products for your companion animals. To better health for all dogs and cats!

Dr. Jane Bicks

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