A new whitepaper from APC explores the link between inflammation and negative health impacts and the role of dietary plasma in supporting whole-body health for dogs and cats. Read the summary here!
Inflammation is a long-term issue that may impact your patients, and it can lead to chronic health issues. Because your clients can help manage chronic inflammation in their animal companions with the right diet, it’s important to talk to them about feeding foods, treats, and supplements that have functional ingredients that promote health and well-being while having a beneficial effect on managing inflammation. According to studies, plasma is one such ingredient, and adding it to diets has numerous long-term health and developmental benefits.
To illustrate the connection between health and chronic inflammation and explore the role of dietary plasma in canine and feline diets, APC has released a whitepaper. Given that, let’s summarize what the whitepaper says.
Chronic Inflammation Affects All Body Systems
Inflammatory cells that are part of the immune system and immune response produce pro or anti-inflammatory cytokines that can lead to a cascade of events in other areas of the body. For example, chronic inflammation can lead to:
- Reduced nutrient absorption, intestinal integrity, and unbalanced gut microbiota
- Muscle degradation
- The production of acute phase proteins in the liver
- Cognitive decline and neurodegeneration
- Insulin resistance and obesity
- Bone loss and decreased mobility
Plasma Is a Functional Ingredient That Supports Health
Plasma, the liquid component of blood, contains beneficial amino acids, minerals, and antibodies, as well as active functional proteins. Specifically, it contains:
- Transferrin: binds iron and helps reduce bacterial growth and survival
- Lysozyme: kills bacteria
- Growth factors: help repair tissue damage
- Cytokines: help regulate the body’s immune system response to pathogens or stress
- IgG: antibodies bind to and eliminate pathogens
The functional proteins in plasma help support the immune system, gut microbiota, nutrient absorption, muscle development, skin and coat health, and energy levels. Plasma has a systemic effect, supporting the body’s ability to respond to stress and inflammation.
Supporting Animals at All Life Stages with Plasma
For puppies and kittens, plasma provides proteins and amino acids, helping them to develop strong bones and muscles. Further, it modulates intestinal inflammation to maintain intestinal barrier function for development and nutrient uptake.
In adults, plasma provides nutrients and supports the immune system, helping to mitigate the effects of stress, encouraging activity, and supporting optimal health.
Senior pets tend to experience inflammation at higher rates and are more susceptible to reduced mobility, cognitive function, strength, and intestinal health. However, plasma can help support and maintain cognition, intestinal function and overall well-being.
APC Plasma-Based Ingredients Support Animal Health Worldwide
APC is a global leader in the manufacture and supply of plasma for animal health and nutrition. They’re focused on sustainability, collecting blood that might otherwise be wasted and transforming it into a valuable, nutritious product that supports animal health. Their plasma-based ingredients are used in food, treats, and supplements, providing a functional ingredient that helps support systemic whole body health in dogs and cats.
AUTHOR PROFILE
IVC Journal is a division of Redstone Media Group. Innovation is the key to veterinarians staying competitive and being able to provide their clients with the absolute best care possible. IVC Journal delivers the most up to date and compelling information available by bridging the gap between the traditional worlds of allopathic and integrative veterinary care.
