Pet parents: we are living through a knowledge revolution! (Don’t worry, this is a really good thing.)
These days, pet parents are far more savvy and conscious of what goes into their furry companions’ food and supplements. We’re all paying attention. We’re reading labels, investigating companies, asking questions…
One term that’s gaining traction in the pet health world is functional ingredients. These are things pet parents are regularly looking for – but what exactly are they? And how do they compare to fillers in pet supplements? Let’s dive into why functional ingredients make a difference and explore some powerful examples that can improve your pet’s health.
What are Functional Ingredients?
It’s easy to say that all ingredients in pet supplements “serve” a function. And that’s technically true, whether they’re what gives the supplement its health benefits or if companies add them solely as a filler. But – and this is important – not all ingredients are functional ingredients.
Let me explain.
Functional ingredients are components added to pet food or supplements that provide specific health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Unlike standard ingredients that merely provide calories or increase palatability, functional ingredients have targeted effects, such as supporting immunity, digestion, or joint health.
For many companies, there’s a growing focus on prioritizing functional ingredients over fillers. Here’s why they make a difference:
- Targeted Health Benefits: They support specific body functions, such as immunity, digestion, and detoxification.
- Higher Nutritional Value: Unlike fillers, functional ingredients provide bioactive compounds that improve well-being.
- Improved Absorption and Effectiveness: Many functional ingredients, like prebiotics, enhance nutrient absorption, ensuring your pet gets the most out of their diet.
- Fewer Unnecessary Additives: Quality supplements avoid artificial fillers, preservatives, and low-value ingredients.
Function vs. Filler
A filler is an ingredient that adds bulk to a product but provides little to no nutritional value. Common fillers in pet products include corn, wheat, and soy. While not inherently harmful, fillers are often used to cut costs rather than enhance health. Often, they are used to bulk up the product but offer little nutritional value. In contrast, functional ingredients are intentionally chosen for their bioactive properties.
Common fillers or non-functional ingredients in pet supplements often include:
- grains like corn, wheat, and rice
- soy products
- by-products
- artificial flavours/colours
- cellulose
- sweeteners
- maltodextrin
A supplement packed with functional ingredients offers a higher quality product that benefits your pet’s health rather than just filling space. Instead of unnecessary carbohydrates, functional ingredients deliver active compounds that support the body’s natural processes.
Functional Ingredients that Benefit Pets
At Adored Beast Apothecary, we’ve always been focused on sourcing and formulating using functional ingredients. We’ve always been committed to not using artificial fillers and additives that add nothing as far as health.
Here are a few standout functional ingredients that can enhance pet supplements – they’re 3 that we use and love!
1. Turkey Tail Mushrooms (Prebiotic and Immune Support)
Turkey tail mushrooms are a rich source of polysaccharides, which act as prebiotics to nourish beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. Additionally, turkey tail contains beta-glucans, which are known for their immune-boosting properties, helping pets fight off infections and diseases. We use it in The Wolf.
2. Larch Arabinogalactan (Immune Modulation)
Larch is a powerful natural fiber that stimulates the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. It comes from the bark of the larch tree, and it’s something our animals’ ancestors would consume as part of a regular prey diet (meaning it’s species-appropriate). It promotes gut health, making it a great addition to supplements aimed at immune resilience and digestive balance. You’ll find larch in many of our probiotics: Love Bugs, Gut Soothe, Healthy Gut, Fido’s Flora, and Felix’s Flora.
3. Chlorella (Detoxification and Cellular Health)
Chlorella is a green algae full of nutrients, including chlorophyll, which helps the body detoxify by binding to heavy metals and toxins. It also supports liver function and overall cellular health, making it an excellent choice for pets exposed to environmental pollutants or needing extra detox support. We use chlorella in our Soil & Sea.
But this is just a quick list of examples. There are so many more, including:
- turmeric: contains curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
- hemp: source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as protein and fiber, which can contribute to overall health and well-being
- ashwagandha: adaptogen that may help reduce stress and improve overall well-being
- antioxidants (phytoplankton, medicinal mushrooms): to fight free radicals and oxidative stress
- glucosamine and chondroitin: known for their ability to maintain joint health and flexibility
Choosing the Right Pet Supplement
When selecting a supplement for your pet, always check the ingredient list. Look for functional ingredients with proven benefits and avoid those packed with unnecessary fillers. The best supplements are those designed with your pet’s health in mind, using nature’s most powerful ingredients to provide optimal support. Just like whole food diets are best for your dog, the first rule of supplements is to always look for ones with ingredients sourced from whole foods.
By understanding and prioritizing functional ingredients, you can make better choices for your pet’s nutrition, ensuring they live a healthier, happier life! Vive La Revolution!
