Spirulina for dogs (effect and dosage explained)
- Claudia Weise
- Updated: 3 April, 2023
Spirulina as the new superfood and divides opinions. While enthusiastic supporters back the active ingredient, the doubters are still suspicious. But what can the green rag actually do? Here you will learn what Spirulina actually is, how it works and whether it is suitable for dogs.
In addition, for this article we have obtained advice from the veterinarian Mag.med.vet. Emin Jasarevic. So be curious.
Spirulina has a lot of healthy active ingredients and is a worthwhile idea for supplementing your dog's diet
What exactly is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a Microalgae or blue-green algae and contains a very high concentration of nutrients. More than half of the alga consists of proteins. Various vitamins, minerals, amino and fatty acids, trace elements, antioxidants and enzymes are in the primal alga.
Hardly any other natural substance is known for such a rich composition. The blue-green algae is, strictly speaking, a type of cyanobacteria. It already existed more than three billion years ago.
Their photosynthetic abilities gave them a clear advantage in the fight for survival. They were the first green creatures on the still inanimate planet to form the color-giving chlorophyll needed for photosynthesis.
Due to its properties, the primitive alga can continue to colonize very inhospitable habitats. It is found mainly in highly saline lakes and soda lakes. Flamingos filter spirulina from the water with their beaks, which gives them their impressive plumage coloration.
Even today, the alga is a traditional part of the diet for the inhabitants of Lake Chad in Africa or those of Lake Texcoco in Mexico.
The cultivation of Spirulina today takes place in water farms. They are located in (sub-)tropical areas. Either they are harvested in natural lakes or lakes created only for cultivation. Important for the cultivation is a high mineral salt content.
What are the active ingredients of spirulina?
The human daily requirement of numerous minerals can already be substantially covered with 10 grams. The calorie and fat intake is minimal here. Spirulina is also very easy to digest. Due to the organic binding, all nutrients can be absorbed directly by the body.
The vitamins in spirulina
Vitamin A is responsible for vision and the protection and elasticity of the skin. It is also indispensable for cancer prevention. Our body produces vitamin A from beta-carotene, which is contained in spirulina in high doses.
Vitamin B12 can only be synthesized by microorganisms. That is why it is found almost exclusively in meat products. The supplementation of vitamin B12 is essential, especially in a vegetarian diet.
Minerals and trace elements
As a dietary supplement, spirulina enhances performance through the minerals and trace elements. There are among other things Barium, Boron, Chromium, Iodine, Cobalt, Manganese, Molybdenum, Titanium and Vanadium contained in the blue-green algae.
Iron
The iron content in spirulina is extremely high, up to 50 times as much as in meat. It is also very well tolerated in this form.
Antioxidants
Enzymes and antioxidants are also contained in large quantities in the blue-green algae. These prevent various diseases. For example, the pigment Phycocyanin an excellent detoxifier for harmful substances in the body.
The enzyme Linolenic acid is a Omega fatty acid and is rarely found. This fatty acid is said to have antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory abilities. Accordingly, it can serve the prevention of heart disease.
Is Spirulina suitable for dogs?
What is good for man must also be good for man's best friend. This statement usually proves to be false, for example in the case of chocolate. But in this case, it actually applies.
Spirulina has a similar to the same effect on the dog's body as on the human one, because of its valuable composition and good tolerance. So you can give your darling spirulina without any worries.
However, you should keep in mind that each quadruped has individual health conditions. Therefore, it is always advisable - also with food supplements - to ask a veterinarian of your confidence for advice.
Mode of action: Fields of application of Spirulina
1. strengthening of the immune system
The most important point is the improvement of the immune system. The intake of spirulina causes a higher cell activity. This leads to a proliferation of cells, which kills germs at an early stage.
Especially quadrupeds with a weak immune system feel tired and behave sluggishly. Also, because of this, he is easily susceptible to diseases of any kind. A Strengthening the immune system and metabolism stimulates the vitality of your protégé. Even small amounts of spirulina can have a positive effect on the general well-being of your four-legged friend.
2. improvement of digestion
So far, research has shown that Spirulina promotes digestion and intestinal function.
Dangerous intestinal bacteria such as e-coli are suppressed. Fungi such as Candida are also kept in check by Spirulina. While bad components of the intestinal flora are inhibited from multiplying, the good ones like lactobacilli are stimulated.
The intestine and its "inhabitants" are a basic building block for health. This is because all nutrients are absorbed through it. A healthy intestinal flora also increases the absorption of nutrients.
3. detoxification of the body
Various laboratory studies have shown that spirulina filters harmful substances from the body. In addition, the algae can help to reduce by Poisons or radiation to repair damaged genetic material.
4. cancer prevention
In animal studies, Spirulina has been shown to have an anticancer effect. Through the stimulation of so-called natural killer cells and other components of the immune system, cancer cells are attacked. A reduction in the risk of cancer of the skin, stomach, colon and liver is assumed.
5. help with allergies
Spirulina is also said to be a helper in the fight against allergies. Certain components inhibit the production of histamine in the body. Thus, the primal alga can act as a natural remedy against numerous allergies.
Are there any side effects?
There are no known side effects when taking Spirulina - neither for humans nor animals. Since the intake of spirulina has been documented for several centuries, there is actually no risk.
Nevertheless, you should initially watch out for an incompatible reaction after consumption in your furry nose. Ultimately, not everyone tolerates everything equally well.
When purchasing, please note that this is the Spirulina algae that is produced in a closed system. Otherwise, it would be susceptible to contamination in open waters.
This is because microcystins, heavy metals, etc. have been found in some algae during examinations of Spirulina cultures in open waters. They are harmful to humans and animals. Symptoms of impure algae include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
How is it administered?
Spirulina comes in Powder or in Tablet form. The powder is the most suitable for your four-legged friend. You can easily mix it with his food.
Mix the recommended amount of spirulina with a little water until it is combined with it. Then you can add it to the food or mix it in. Dogs absorb it perfectly and like to eat it.
Also, pay attention to the composition of your preparation. To keep the production price low, some manufacturers mix in other blue-green algae. This reduces the effectiveness. High quality and pure spirulina also has its price.
What is the recommended dosage for dogs?
Dogs can receive a daily dose of 0.5 up to 4 grams. It is recommended to give small four-legged friends half a teaspoon and larger ones one to two teaspoons with food.
Please also observe the manufacturer's dosage instructions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Spirulina is a genus of blue-green algae found in salt lakes. Spirulina is sold as a dietary supplement and has health-promoting properties.
Spirulina contains a high amount of minerals, trace elements and vitamins. It has many positive effects on health, both humans and dogs.
There are no known side effects when taking spirulina - neither for humans nor animals. Nevertheless, your dog could have an intolerance to it. Therefore, it is best to discuss the intake with your veterinarian.
Dogs can receive a daily dose of 0.5 up to 4 grams. It is recommended to give small four-legged friends half a teaspoon and larger ones one to two teaspoons with food.
Spirulina comes in powder or in tablet form. The powder is best for your dog. You can easily mix it into his food.
Our experience
Even if the active ingredients and experience speak for Spirulina, the conditions of each quadruped are individual. That is why it is recommended to talk about it beforehand with the veterinarian of your confidence.
We were definitely very happy with our Spirulina powder and it can be helpful as a supplement in many situations.
I am a veterinarian and writer on animal health topics. Animals are my passion, and it is my personal goal to create medically accurate articles and videos to educate pet owners as much as possible.
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