Nowadays, there is so much buzz surrounding hemp and the health benefits it has for pets and people. It is easy to understand why since hemp oil for dogs can be seen as a superfood due to its many nutrients that can be seen as vital for health. As hemp grows in popularity, gaining the reputation of a wonderful supplement humans can use, the exact same thing happens in relation to dogs. If you ever wondered why so many pet owners recommend hemp oil for dogs, here are the main reasons you should be aware of.
GLA – Gamma-Linolenic Acid
The dog is capable of synthesizing gamma-linolenic acid, which is an Omega 6 fat, but deficiency is common. GLA is really important for the body and a deficiency can lead to premature aging, diabetes, cancer, skin problems, digestive issues and arthritis. The dog basically needs a good supply and hemp oil is capable of offering just that. Some of the really common GLA health benefits are:
- Managing inflammation and pain associated with arthritis– This was supported by a study published in the Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism.
- Skin Allergies are reduced– GOLA can help manage atopic dermatitis.
- Anti-Cancer– GLA-rich diets can modulate inflammation and will boost the immune function of the body. GLA will inhibit cancer cell growth for various tumor types. Also, apoptosis is stimulated while the negative effects of cancer drugs are reduced.
- Weight management– GLA will help turn on the dog’s fat burning mechanism while increasing energy levels.
Omega Fatty Acids
Contrary to popular belief, Omega-3 and Omega 6 fats are working together inside the body in order to manage inflammation. In hemp oil we have the ideal ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6, 1 to 3. This is a balance that is really important for overall health.
Dogs that suffer from long term chronic inflammation usually end up with different health problems. The common ones are heart disease, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, cancer and liver disease. By simply adding some hemp oil to the diet, such disease can be prevented. Omega-3 fats will also be really beneficial for the dog’s skin, brain, eyes, immune system and joints.
Antioxidants
In hemp oil you can find high quantities of vitamin A and vitamin E. These are really strong antioxidants capable of helping the pet’s immune system because of the effect on free radicals. You need to know that free radicals appear as the dog absorbs various toxins from chemicals, pollution, processed foods, pesticides, drugs and vaccines. Oxidative stress appears and the dog is faced with damaged cells, DNA and proteins. Antioxidants will promote overall better health.
Phospholipids
These are molecules that help cells maintain internal structure. Because of the high content of phospholipids in hemp oil for dogs, various health benefits appear, including liver damage repair, immune function boost, gastric acid reduction, arthritis pain management and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
On the whole, hemp oil is actually better than the really popular fish oil that is often added to the diet of dogs. It is something that you want to learn more about.