Pumpkin and Cheese Cuits
Pumpkin and Cheese Cuits
"These cookies contain flours with a high protein and fiber content , which will help with digestion. In addition to the flours chosen, we also have pumpkin, which is a great source of prebiotic fiber and the vegetable of choice when there are gastrointestinal problems . The addition of cottage cheese greatly increases the protein and nutritional value." Marta Oliveira - https://www.martaoliveiravetnurse.com/
Spelt Flour
Spelt is an older variety of wheat (red wheat) originating from southwest Asia. Although it is very similar to the well-known wheat flour, spelt has a much higher nutritional value . It has a higher protein and fiber content and is therefore an easier food to digest .
It is rich in B vitamins (mainly vitamin B3) and vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and calcium. Due to its high fiber content, this flour helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels in the blood and helps control the blood glucose index and glucose absorption by cells.
This is also a flour with a lower gluten content, when compared to white wheat flour, so it is recommended when the aim is to reduce gluten in the diet.
Nutritional value in 100g
- Protein - 14.5g
- Fibers - 9.3g
- Phosphorus - 363mg
- Potassium - 350mg
- Magnesium - 124mg
- Calcium - 30mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - 5.47mg
Oat
Like spelt flour, the use of oat flour will make this a biscuit that is gentle on the digestive system and easy to digest .
Nutritional Value
- Protein - around 17%
- Contains soluble fiber (helps maintain low cholesterol and triglyceride levels)
- Rich in magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, manganese, zinc and B vitamins (B5 and B9)
- Low in gluten
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a cheese that is rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus and potassium but low in calories, fat, sodium and lactose compared to other cheeses. This makes it a great choice of cheese when it comes to diets for our dogs.
Nutritional Value in 100g:
- Protein - 11.6g
- Fat - 4.22g
- Calcium - 88mg
- Phosphorus - 154mg
- Potassium - 124mg
- Sodium - 350mg
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is an excellent addition to a dog's diet, offering both nutritional and medicinal benefits. Rich in fiber , it helps regulate the digestive system , relieving both diarrhea and constipation. It contains vitamins A, C and E , as well as antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and promote healthy skin and coat .
Below are some of the benefits of pumpkin in our dogs' diet:
1. Vitamins and Minerals
Pumpkin is packed with nutrients that your dog needs. It’s a great source of vitamins A, E, and C, which are important for the immune system, brain function, eyes, and skin health.
Pumpkin also contains important minerals such as potassium, copper, manganese and iron, which each play a role in cellular functions.
2. Eye Health
Like other orange vegetables, pumpkin is high in beta-carotene , which is a precursor to vitamin A. Once converted to vitamin A in the body, it helps improve vision, as well as boosting overall immunity and skin and coat health. The carotenoid zeaxanthin also protects your dog's eyes from light damage.
3. Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect your dog from dangerous free radicals in the body. Free radicals are damaged cells that steal molecules from other cells. They are a natural byproduct of metabolism and exposure to toxins in the environment. But if free radicals are left unchecked, they can damage your dog’s cells and even their DNA.
The antioxidants in pumpkin include these plant pigments, called carotenoids:
- Beta-carotene
- Zeaxanthin
- Beta-cryptoxanthin
Carotenoids help reduce the risk of cancer and degenerative diseases. Studies show that they may also be beneficial for bone health. Like beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin also forms vitamin A. Zeaxanthin helps slow the aging process, improve heart health, increase glutathione levels and reduce skin inflammation.
4. Fiber
Pumpkin is a good source of fiber, which is great for your dog’s digestive health. The soluble fiber in pumpkin absorbs water, which can help solidify loose stools when your dog has diarrhea.
Fiber can also help with the opposite problem, acting as a laxative to help with hard stools in cases of constipation.
The fiber in pumpkin can also help your dog feel fuller for longer and can prevent anal gland problems in dogs.
Link to full article on pumpkin in your dog's diet:
https://www.martaoliveiravetnurse.com/ingredients/pumpkin-the-various-benefits-in-the-diet-of-our-petsArticle written by: Marta Oliveira