Some dogs may be prone to liver failure because of genetics, or an overexposure to toxins may also cause liver problems. Liver disease may occur as a reaction to a bacterial or viral infection. Dog owners are not always satisfied with the results obtained from traditional pharmaceutical treatment and often turn to holistic methods of treatment. There are a number of nutraceuticals available to support liver function and enable regeneration.
-
Milk Thistle
-
Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is essential in restoring the liver due to its silymarin contents. Silymarin is a content of milk thistle that works to prevent toxins from entering the liver and removes them at the cellular level. This action aids in the regeneration of liver cells and will ultimately improve the liver function in your dog. Milk thistle properties act to remove cell-damaging molecules and increase levels of glutathione, a major supporter of internal organs. Milk thistle also inhibits the formation of inflammatory agents such as leukotrienes. Milk thistle extract should be administered to your dog daily and can easily be added to your dog's food or water bowl. A good rule of thumb for dosage is 200 milligrams of milk thistle for every 10 pounds of body weight.
Nutrient Support for the Liver
-
Monitoring your dog's diet closely is essential in treating and preventing liver problems. While the liver is healing, small and frequent low-fat meals should be given to your pet. Low-fat foods containing easy-to-digest grains will minimize strain on the liver and allow it to heal more quickly. Other nutrients should be added to your dog's treatment in addition to the regular doses of milk thistle. Alpha lipoic acid should be used in conjunction with vitamins E and C since it works as an aide to enhance the vitamins effects. Vitamin Q, also known as Coenzyme Q10, is an essential support for healthy liver function. Vitamin B12 should definitely be used if your dog is having trouble digesting food, since B12 is extremely helpful in improving the body's absorption of food. Tissue salts such as natrium phosphate and natrium sulphate will help to detoxify the liver and promote bile flow from the gall bladder. Turmeric extract should be used as an additional anti-inflammatory agent, and Dimethyglycine (DMG) is another effective amino acid that will aid in rebuilding liver cells.
-