Question: What foods and food ingredients should I avoid feeding my dog?

Answer: This is by no means a list of everything on the planet that’s bad for dogs. But it’s a few of the things that should be avoided by themselves or as an ingredient in something else.

1. Chocolate. This contains the alkaloid theobromine which is toxic to dogs. It also contains caffeine and may contain sugar.

2. Dairy. Dairy products include milk, cream, butter, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, whey, sour cream, kefir, casein, and ice cream. Milk is a hormonal growth fluid produced by a mother for her young of the same species. Dogs do not “milk” cows and, after weaning, have no need for dairy products. A weaned dog isn’t equipped with the enzymes needed to digest the protein and sugar in dairy products. Plus, studies with some animals show that casein (a protein in milk) interferes with the absorption of other nutrients. Read the rest »

Are there any foods that may help with muscle stiffness, aches and pains? Have no fear, there are many delicious foods that contain natural anti-inflammatory compounds. But first, let’s make sure you’re not consuming foods that are actually increasing your discomfort.

Sugar really disrupts your body chemistry in many negative ways and can make your body and mind feel tired and achy. People often crave sugar, which comes in many forms, when their body feels sluggish and they want a boost of energy. Unfortunately, while the immediate rise in blood sugar may give you a short-lived burst, the drop in blood sugar that soon follows will make you feel worse than before. Caffeine works in a similar manner; quick boost, then long fall. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the mornings you wake up with especially stiff achy muscles followed an evening before that contained a sugary dessert, alcohol (another form of sugar), or coffee. Read the rest »

This is by no means a list of everything on the planet that’s bad for cats. But it’s a few of the things that should be avoided by themselves or as an ingredient in something else.

Alpha lipoic acid. Also referred to as lipoic acid. It’s an antioxidant that increases production of glutathione and can cause gastrointestinal distress and low blood sugar in cats.

Chocolate. This contains the alkaloid theobromine which is toxic to cats. It also contains caffeine and may contain sugar. Read the rest »

Protein. Dietary protein supplies essential amino acids and is needed for the manufacture of antibodies, enzymes, hormones, tissues, and proper pH balance. Protein provides energy for cats and is essential for growth and development. Complete proteins contain ample amounts of essential amino acids and are found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and poultry. Incomplete proteins do not provide all essential amino acids and are found in many foods including legumes, grains, and vegetables. Plant proteins don’t supply the essential amino acids that a cat needs, such as taurine which come from animal protein. Cats need protein from animal sources as the amino acids from vegetable sources are not well utilized. Overall, cats have a very high requirement for protein. Read the rest »

Question: Is fat important to my dog’s health and, if so, what is the best kind?

Answer: Dietary fat is the most concentrated source of energy for the dog. It also provides essential fatty acids and aids in nutrient utilization and transportation. Fat is involved in cell integrity and metabolic regulation. So, yes, fat is important to your dog’s overall health! Read the rest »

Question: I love soup on a chilly day, but I’d like to try something new that I can make for myself that’s also impressive enough to prepare for guests. Any ideas?

Answer: Soup is indeed a supreme comfort food and is a very versatile food. It can be served as a first course or entrée. Following is a soup recipe that should please your palate and those of your friends.

Gazpacho is a traditional chilled Spanish soup but can be heated in the winter and served chilled during warmer weather. In addition to tasting delicious, it’s a good way to hydrate the body with fluid and nutrients. Using beautiful ripe tomatoes (organically-grown are the best) will give your soup luscious color and flavor. Read the rest »

Question: I love the flavor of pumpkin, but I’m tired of pie! Is there something else I can make with it? Also, I’ve heard that pumpkin is high in something called beta-carotene – is that a good thing?

Answer: Absolutely! Pumpkins have been used throughout history as both food and medicine and they’re grown almost all over the world, ranging in size from very tiny to giants weighing more than 100 pounds. This winter squash is an excellent source of antioxidants including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin – compounds that help fight the damaging effect of free radicals that can cause heart disease and cancer. Read the rest »