ALFALFA
Alfalfa is known as the "King of Plants", and its roots have been used for
centuries in many cultures. The herb belongs to the legume family, closely
related to beans and peas. Alfalfa is an excellent source of vitamins D, E and
K, beta-carotene, minerals, fiber, chlorophyll, calcium, proteins and fats. It
is especially rich in the amino acid trypophane. It is considered to be a very
nutritious herb, and is used to increase appetite, alleviate certain allergic
reactions and help poor digestion. It may also reduce the inflammation due to
arthritis and rheumatism. (Canine formula)
ALPHA AMYLASE
A soluble fiber digestant. We believe NuVet Plus™ is the finest pet supplement
available, however it must be able to be digested as efficiently as possible.
Alpha Amylase creates the means by which the ingredients will be absorbed into
the body as rapidly as possible without diminishing NuVet Plus™' powerful
antioxidant capabilities.
AMINO ACIDS
Necessary for the synthesis of body proteins and many other tissue
constituents. Amino acids aid in building new muscle, bone and tendon cells;
play a vital role in metabolism, stamina, and brain function; and enable
vitamins and minerals to be properly absorbed and assimilated. There are
approximately twenty-eight amino acids that combine in various ways to create
hundreds of different types of proteins. Some amino acids enhance the immune
system by stimulating the antioxidant activity of certain enzymes and can help
prevent skin and coat problems. Others prevent premature aging, tumors, nerve
disease and connective tissue disorders.
Pet foods
high in protein may or may not contain all the necessary amino acids to maintain
proper health of a pet. This deficiency could cause a host of problems ranging
from indigestion, stunted growth, nervous disorders, or worse. NuVet Plus™,
with its specifically blended natural ingredients, contains all the critical
amino acids that must be introduced through the diet for proper health.
BETA-CAROTENE
The precursor to Vitamin A becomes a powerful free radical scavenger in the
body. Vitamin A is essential in skeletal growth, testicular and ovarian
function, embryonic development, and differentiation of tissues. It is crucial
for proper eye function and possible cataract reduction. Vitamin A is necessary
for healthy skin and mucous membranes, the body’s first line of defense against
invading microorganisms and toxins, and promotes the immune response.
Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A destroy carcinogens (cancer-causing agents), guards
against heart disease and stroke, and lowers cholesterol.
BLUE GREEN ALGAE
Blue Green Algae is nature's most basic food. Existing at the beginning of the
food chain, it provides nutrition in its simplest form. Blue Green Algae has a
greater amount of protein than any other whole food. It provides the essential
nutrients for the health of the physical body, and the smooth operation of the
brain and nervous system. Blue Green Algae is a very rich chlorophyll source and
has been shown to enhance the health of the entire body, strengthen the immune
system, promote intestinal regularity and the healing of wounds, boosts
hemoglobin production and helps purify the blood. The trace minerals found in
blue green algae are Boron, Calcium, Chlorine, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper,
Fluorine, Geranium, Iodine, Iron, Magnesium, Maganese, Molybdenum, Nickel,
Phosphorus, Potassium, Silicon, Sodium, Tin, Titanium, Vanadium, and Zinc.
BREWER’S YEAST
A balanced, natural source of B-Complex vitamins (also see Chicken Liver).
Studies show another beneficial effect of Brewer’s Yeast supplementation is
significant reduction of body fleas on companion pets.
CAT’S CLAW (UNA DE GATO)
Cat's Claw, also known as Una de Gato, is an ancient herb, found in the rain
forest of Peru. This singular and wild woody vine is known for its amazing
healing properties and has been used by native people for centuries.
It cleanses the
intestinal track, enhances the action of white blood cells, and acts as an
anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It is good for intestinal problems and viral
infections. Research
in different countries including Germany, Austria, England, and Hungary has
shown that Cat’s Claw can stimulate the immune system and may help in the
treatment of diseases including cancer, AIDS, viral or respiratory infections,
allergies, arthritis and rheumatism.
CHICKEN
LIVER
We use 100% chicken liver, which is paddle-dried in order to retain the omega
fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and the B-complex vitamin group. Contains
minerals including calcium, copper, phosphorous, and iron. Chicken liver is good
for anemia and aids in building healthy red blood cells. It is known to
increase energy, fight liver disorders, and help relieve stress in the body.
COPPER
Aids in the formation of red blood cells, and works with Vitamin C to form
elastin, an important protein that makes up bone, skin and connective tissue.
It aids in the healing process and energy production. This mineral is needed for
healthy nerves and joints. A sign of copper deficiency is osteoporosis.
EVENING PRIMROSE OIL
High in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid that
promotes cardiovascular health. It is known to prevent hardening of the
arteries, heart disease and high blood pressure, and aids in lowering
cholesterol. It is helpful in the management of arthritis, rheumatism, certain
skin disorders, and can relieve pain and inflammation. Studies have shown it
can increase the release of sex hormones and thereby improve reproductive
health.
IRON
Necessary for hemoglobin and myoglobin (a type of hemoglobin found in muscle
tissue). It is necessary for the oxygenation of red blood cells. Iron helps in
protein metabolism and promotes growth. Iron is also necessary for energy
production and a healthy immune system. Iron deficiency can cause weakness,
anemia, digestive disturbances, fragile bones and hair loss.
L METHIONINE
An essential amino acid that is not synthesized by the body and must be obtained
from food or supplements. It is a powerful antioxidant and a good source of
sulfur, which neutralizes free radicals and helps prevent skin, coat and nail
problems. It can help to detoxify harmful agents such as lead and other heavy
metals found in airborne pollutants. L Methionine is essential for the
absorption, transportation and bioavailability of selenium and zinc in the
body. It also acts as a liptropic agent to prevent excess fat buildup in the
liver, and can help to reduce fatigue. It is useful in some allergy cases
because it reduces histamine release.
Recent studies show L Methionine supplementation may help delay the development
of age-related cataracts. Deficiencies in L Methionine can slow growth and cause
low levels of essential proteins in the blood. Lack of it can result in edema,
liver damage, loss of muscle and fat, skin lesions and weakness. (Canine
formula)
MAGNESIUM
Acts as a catalyst in the utilization of carbohydrates, fats, protein, calcium,
phosphorus, and potassium. It is important for energy and healthy maintenance
of bones, teeth, arteries, heart and nerves. Research has shown that magnesium
can help prevent cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and certain forms of
cancer.
MANGANESE
An enzyme activator that plays an important part in tissue respiration and
carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Necessary for normal skeletal development and
to maintain sex-hormone production. Manganese deficiency can lead to paralysis,
convulsions, dizziness, deafness and blindness.
OYSTER SHELL
Extremely rich in calcium, the major constituent in the structural framework of
bones. Practically every cell in the body, notably those in the heart, nerves,
and muscles rely on calcium to function properly. Some experts recommend higher
levels of calcium in order to prevent bone loss. The heart requires calcium to
maintain a normal beat. Muscles need it for contraction and relaxation, and
calcium is essential for blood clotting and proper nervous system function.
Over time, if not enough calcium is consumed, the body takes calcium from the
bones to keep the heart and muscles working properly. This process will
gradually weaken the bones until they break easily. (All oyster shell used
in our product is farm-raised and tested for lead content.)
PAPAIN
Fundamentally aids in the digestion of protein. Papain’s activity helps to
cleanse the tissues and intestinal walls. The unique ability of Papain to break
down protein and convert a portion of it into Arginine is extremely important
because Arginine, in its natural form, has been found to influence the
production of HGH. HGH, produced in the pituitary gland, is directly
responsible for DNA and RNA replication as well as synthesis in liver, muscle,
cartilage, and adipose tissues. HGH helps to increase muscle tone and decrease
body fat. Arginine has also been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer
cells in test tube studies.
PHOSPHORUS
Works with calcium to build bones and teeth. Aids the body in the utilization
of vitamins, and conversion of food to energy. Deficiencies of phosphorus can
lead to loss of weight and appetite, irregular breathing, pyorrhea, fatigue and
nervous disorders.
PINE BARK
The proanthocyanidids in Pine Bark have been shown in clinical studies to be 20
times more effective than Vitamin C and 50 times more effective than Vitamin E
as an antioxidant. Pine Bark helps relieve pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis,
arthritis, rheumatism, and rheumatic fever. It has been shown to reduce
histamine production, thereby helping the lining of arteries resist mutagen
attacks which cause cardiovascular disease.
Pine Bark’s remarkable ability to “seek and destroy” free radicals is a
tremendous benefit to the health of our animals. By reducing oxidative damage
to cells and vital tissues, what we recognize as aging (stiff joints, wrinkled
skin, degenerative disease problems like arthritis, circulatory disorders,
diabetes, heart disease, etc.) is held to a subdued rate. In addition, unlike
virtually all other dietary antioxidants, proanthocyanidids readily cross the
blood-brain barrier to protect vital brain and nerve tissue from oxidation.
POTASSIUM (CITRATE)
Important for a healthy nervous system and regular heart rhythm. Helps prevent
strokes, aids in proper muscle contraction, and works with sodium to control the
body’s water balance. Potassium is important for chemical reactions within the
cells, aids in maintaining stable blood pressure and proper transmission of
eletro-chemical impulses. It also regulates the transfer of nutrients through
cell membranes. Signs of potassium deficiency include abnormally dry skin,
weakness, paralysis, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat which can lead
to cardiac arrest and death.
SELENIUM
An essential trace mineral whose principal function is to inhibit the oxidation
of lipids (fats). It is a vital antioxidant, especially when combined with
Vitamin E. It protects the immune system by preventing the formation of free
radicals. It has also been found to function as a preventative against the
formation of certain types of tumors. Selenium and Vitamin E act
synergistically to aid in the production of antibodies and help maintain a
healthy heart and liver. Selenium deficiency has been linked to cancer and
heart disease. It has also been associated with exhaustion, growth impairment,
high cholesterol levels, infections, liver impairment, pancreatic insufficiency,
and sterility.
SHARK CARTILAGE
Contains collagen and glycosaminoglycans. This combination makes shark cartilage
a powerful anti-inflammatory wound-healing agent that is non-toxic and has no
known side-effects. It is also an effective substance against bacteria, virus
and fungal infections, which stimulates the cellular and humoral components of
our immune system.
There have been numerous studies demonstrating the ability of shark cartilage to
shrink some cancerous tumors, including those unaffected by standard
treatments. In order to grow, a tumor must establish its own blood vessel
network for nourishment. Like all other living things, if the tumor is denied
nourishment, it will die. Studies performed at the Massachussetts Institute for
Technology have shown that shark cartilage contains a protein that impedes the
formation of blood vessels to tumors.
TAURINE
One of the most abundant amino acids in the body. It is found in the central
nervous system, skeletal muscle, and highly concentrated in the brain and
heart.
Taurine therapy is used in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. Low Taurine
and magnesium levels have been found after heart attacks. Supplements decrease
the tendency to develop potentially lethal abnormal arrhythmia after heart
attacks.
Another role played by Taurine is maintaining the correct composition of bile
and solubility of cholesterol. It helps stabilize cell membranes and seems to
have some antioxidant and detoxifying activity. It also helps the movement of
potassium, sodium, calcium and magnesium in and out of cells, which helps
generate nerve impulses. Taurine is necessary for chemical reactions that
produce normal vision. Deficiencies are associated with retinal degeneration and
age-related cataracts.
(Feline formula only; canines produce their own Taurine.)
VITAMIN A
See Beta-Carotene.
VITAMIN B COMPLEX
Necessary for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. Helps the functioning
of the nervous system; maintains muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract;
maintains the health of skin, coat, eyes, mouth and liver. Contains folic acid.
VITAMIN B1 (THIAMINE)
Essential for normal functioning of the heart, nerves, muscles, skin and
digestive system. Necessary for carbohydrate metabolism.
VITAMIN B2 (RIBOFLAVIN)
Necessary for carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism, and antibody and red blood
cell formation. Good for healthy eyes, skin, and coat.
VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN)
Promotes growth, proper functioning of the nervous system, maintenance of
healthy skin, tongue, digestive system, and carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism.
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)
Assists in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Aids
in the utilization of some vitamins, stimulates growth, and aids in the
formation of antibodies.
VITAMIN B6 (PYRIDOXINE)
Necessary for carbohydrate-fat-protein metabolism, antibody and red blood cell
formation, and aids in digestion. B6 also helps maintain balance of sodium and
phosphorus.
VITAMIN B12
Essential for normal formation of red blood cells, carbohydrate-fat-protein
metabolism, and good appetite. B12 maintains fertility, promotes normal growth
and development, and prevents nerve damage by maintaining the fatty sheaths that
protect nerve endings.
VITAMIN C (ESTER C™)
A powerful antioxidant that also protects other antioxidants such as Vitamin E.
The cells of the brain and spinal cord, which frequently incur free radical
damage, can be protected by significant amounts of Vitamin C. In addition to
its role as an antioxidant, Vitamin C also increases the synthesis of
Interferon, a natural anti-viral substance produced by the body, and stimulates
the activity of certain key immune cells. Vitamin C is a key factor in many
immune functions, including white blood cell function and Interferon levels. Due
to its antioxidant properties, it combats the effects of free radicals while
lowering the risk of cataracts and promoting cell growth and tissue repair.
VITAMIN E
An essential fat-soluble vitamin that includes eight naturally occurring
compounds, and each of these compounds exhibit different biological activities.
The most widely accepted biological function of Vitamin E is related to its
antioxidant activities. Vitamin E is the most effective chain breaking
lipid-soluble antioxidant in the biological membrane. It contributes to
membrane activity, protecting critical cellular structures against damage from
oxygen free radicals.
Deficiencies in Vitamin E may lead to reproductive failure, nutritional
“muscular dystrophy,” hemolytic anemia, and neurological and immunological
abnormalities.
WHEY PROTEIN
The importance of protein in any carnivore’s diet cannot be understated, for it
is critical in building and maintaining muscle mass and other necessary
metabolic functions. Protein deficiencies can lead to retarded skeletal and
muscle growth and a weakened immune system, which causes susceptibility to
infections and degenerative diseases. (Feline formula)
ZINC
Zinc is a component of almost one hundred enzymes involved in metabolic
processes, most of which work with the red blood cells to move carbon dioxide
from the tissue to the lungs. Zinc, functioning as an important antioxidant,
promotes normal growth and development, aids in wound-healing, enhances cell
division, repair and growth, and maintains normal levels of Vitamin A in the
blood. It also helps to synthesize DNA and RNA. Zinc deficiencies have been
linked to prostate hypertrophy, cancer, slow recovery from head injuries,
diabetes, arthritis, and reduced immune system responses.