Health & Nutrition > Ingredient Glossary
Ingredient Glossary
Have a health care question?
Click here to
e-mail our Product Specialists.
Glossary of Active Ingredients: |
|
|
|
|
Glossary of Active Ingredients:
Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, the major component of muscle, skin, hair, nails and other tissues. Amino acids are also found in bioactive compounds in the body such as hormones, antibodies, enzymes and neurotransmitters. Ten are considered essential because they must be present in the diet: arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine (and taurine in cats). Because amino acids play so many roles in the body, they can be found in a wide variety of supplements, including calming, digestion and others.
Arabinogalactan
Arabinogalactan
is a polysaccharide, or, complex carbohydrate, found in a variety of plants. Approved as a dietary source of fiber in people by the FDA, it is also considered a "prebiotic" because it can be used as a food source by the beneficial bacteria in the large intestine. Research is ongoing as to the compound's ability to stimulate the immune system.
Boswellia
Boswellia is an herb whose active ingredients are said to interfere with the enzymes that contribute to inflammation and pain. By inhibiting lipoxygenase and cycloxygenase, Boswellia may act as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
Bromelain
Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in pineapples that may aid in digestion as well as reduce pain and inflammation. Numerous studies in humans have shown Bromelain and other enzymes to be effective in speeding up recovery from exercise and injury, as well as from surgical procedures. There is evidence that some of the enzyme may be absorbed from the GI system intact and enter into the systemic circulation, where it may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving actions on joints, muscle and connective tissue.
Calcium
Calcium (Ca) is a macromineral found in highest amounts in bone and teeth. However, it also has important roles in muscle contraction, cell membranes, blood clotting, enzymes regulation and hormone release. Significant skeletal abnormalities can result from either too little or too much Calcium in the diet, especially in large and giant-breed dogs. The ideal ratio between Calcium and Phosphorus from dogs is between 1.2:1 and 1.4:1.
Return to Top
Calming Decapeptide
Calming Decapeptide is a bioactive peptide with relaxing properties that is isolated from the milk protein casein. Comprised of a string of ten amino acids, this partially digested protein is known for its calming effects and ability to work synergistically with L-theanine. Calming decapeptide helps regulate stress-related behaviors without altering energy level or emotional balance.
Cetyl Myristoleate
Cetyl Myristoleate is a unique fatty acid (Omega-5) discovered by a research chemist at the National Institute of Health (NIH) that is used for both joint inflammation and pain. Although the precise mechanism of action is unknown, it has been suggested that cetyl myristoleate may inhibit the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, decreased production of inflammatory and pain mediators. It can be obtained from animal or plant sources. However, the animal source (beef tallow), provides a higher percentage of active ingredient than the plant source, requiring a much smaller serving size.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is known as “the calming herb” although it has many uses both internally and externally in people and animals. It is classified as a nervine because it is an herb with specific actions on the nervous system. Because of its anti-spasm and anti-inflammatory properties, it is especially helpful for animals that process anxiety through their intestinal system (diarrhea, appetite or weight loss).
Chloride
Chloride (Cl) is a macromineral commonly referred to as an electrolyte because it helps maintain the body’s acid/base balance and hydration status. It is also known as "salt" when combined with its partner Sodium. Chloride is an essential component of two intestinal secretions necessary for digestion and absorption of nutrients: bile and hydrochloric acid (HCl), better known as "stomach acid."
Chondroitin sulfate
Chondroitin sulfate is not only the building block of the much larger molecules hyaluronic acid (HA) and proteoglycan (PG), it also inhibits the effects of various enzymes that degrade cartilage. Research has shown that chondroitin sulfate is bioavailable when taken orally in dogs and that it works synergistically with glucosamine to both stimulate new cartilage production and inhibit cartilage breakdown.
Copper
Copper (Cu) is a micromineral required for production of normal connective tissues include tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone. As a component of many enzyme systems, it is also involved in making Iron available to the body for blood, in producing skin and coat pigments, in proper nerve signaling and in repairing antioxidants. Special diets must be used in certain breeds of dogs—Bedlington terriers, West Highland white terriers and Skye terrier—because they have a hereditary defect resulting in excessive accumulation of Copper in the liver.
Curcumin
Curcumin
is most known as the major ingredient in curry powder, but it is also believed to possess medicinal qualities. The main active substance curcumin has effects throughout the body, but primarily on the liver (relieves jaundice) and circulatory system (dissolves clots). Turmeric is often combined with other herbs to help them function better.
DHA
DHA — see Fatty Acids
Devil's Claw
Devil’s Claw is a South African herb (Harpagophytum procumbens) that is used for pain and inflammation of bone, joints and other tissues. Data from 14 clinical trials in people conducted over the last 40 years suggest Devil’s Claw is effective in the reduction of pain associated with osteoarthritis and is associated with minor risk when compared to non-steroidal animal-inflammatories (NSAIDs). Because it contains “bitters” as an active ingredient, which encourages appetite but stimulates the secretion of stomach acids, it should be used with caution in animals at risk for GI ulcers.
EPA
EPA—see Fatty Acids
Return to Top
Fatty Acids
Fatty Acids are dietary fats that can come from animal as well as plant sources. While only a small amount of fat is required in the diet of dogs and cats, it serves a number of purposes. It is necessary for the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K; it is a very dense supply of energy (calories); and it makes food tastier. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are the specific fatty acids linoleic acid, an Omega 6, and alpha-linolenic acid, an Omega 3, that dogs and cats cannot make themselves and must receive in the diet (cats also require arachidonic acid). EFAs may be helpful in managing dogs with skin problems.
Fish Oil
Fish Oil is an excellent source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids. In particular it contains two Omega 3s—Eicosapentanoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexanoic Acid (DHA)—with special health benefits. EPA has been shown to improve a number of conditions including heart disease, arthritis and kidney disease while DHA has been shown to improve brain function. It is particularly beneficial in growing puppies and older dogs with cognitive dysfunction.
Flax Seed
Flax Seed is a source of the essential fatty acids (EFAs) linoleic acid, an Omega 6, and alpha-linolenic acid, an Omega 3. In fact, Flax is the greatest plant source of Omega 3 fatty acids. As a source of lignans, Flax offers the additional health benefits of these natural compounds.
Fructooligosaccharides
Fructooligosaccharides are sources of non-digestible, soluble fiber that serve as food for the probiotics or "good" bugs in the large intestine, keeping them healthy. Examples of prebiotics are: arabinogalactan, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, mannanoligosaccharides (MOS), pectin and psyllium.
Ginger
Ginger
is a plant that has been used for thousands of years in Asia primarily as a digestive aid to prevent nausea, vomiting and stomach ache. Other positive effects in humans include reducing cholesterol and preventing platelet clumping, helpful in preventing cardiovascular disease. Ginger may also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is the building block of chondroitin sulfate, a specific type of glycosamingoglycan (GAG). Current research suggests glucosamine has two beneficial actions in joints. Not only does it increase the production of new GAGs and therefore new cartilage, glucosamine has also been shown to inhibit the free radicals and enzymes that break down cartilage. This small but important molecule plays a vital role in both the production and protection of healthy joint tissue.
Hops
Hops (Humulus lupulus) is most recognized as the flavoring agent in beer. However, this herb has also been used for centuries to relieve nervous tension, anxiety, irritability and other mood disturbances and therefore is classified as a nervine, or, an herb with specific actions on the nervous system. In humans, it has been shown to aid in sleep disturbances such as insomnia. In animals, it is most useful for those that process anxiety in the head and become distracted and unfocused.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid, or HA, is an integral component of joint cartilage and joint fluid, providing both lubrication and shock absorption. Hyaluronic acid is what makes joint fluid “sticky.” Because it blocks inflammatory reactions thereby protecting cells in the joint, HA is especially useful in acute situations as well as flare-ups of chronic joint conditions.
Iron
Iron (Fe) is a micromineral found in the hemoglobin of red blood cells (RBCs), the myoglobin of muscle cells, and various enzyme systems. Fortunately, many ingredients used in dog and cat food are rich in Iron and deficiency is uncommon. Because too much Iron can interfere with absorption of other minerals as well as cause disease, it is best not to oversupplement.
L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine is an amino acid that transports fat into mitochondria for aerobic oxidation and energy generation. By enhancing the body's use of fat for energy and therefore sparing muscle glycogen, Carnitine may provide benefits during aerobic exercise, particularly endurance events.
L-Glutamine
L-Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body, especially in muscle tissue. Although it is not an essential amino acid, there is such great demand for its use in the body that production may not be able to keep up with consumption, so supplementing may be necessary. Glutamine is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid, including building muscle, repairing intestinal tissue and enhancing the immune system.
L-Taurine
L-Taurine is an amino acid found in high concentrations in electrically active tissues such as the brain, heart, retina and muscle. It stabilizes membranes and assists in the movement of electrolytes in and out of the cells, which is critical for proper nerve transmission and muscle contraction. Taurine is also involved in growth and development, the absorption of fats and vitamins, and proper immune response. Not considered essential in the diet of dogs, some breeds appear susceptible to the heart disease dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) when taurine is not supplemented. However, it is required in the diets of all cats to prevent DCM, blindness and other serious diseases.
L-Theanine
L-Theanine is an amino acid found naturally in green tea that has direct effects on the brain. By improving levels of the neurotransmitters GABA, serotonin and dopamine, L-Theanine is capable of producing feelings of relaxation without causing drowsiness, and relieving feelings of anxiety without altering personality. It is believed to work in a synergistic manner with calming decapeptide.
L-Tryptophan
L-Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is converted by the body into serotonin, melatonin and other hormones that transmit nerve signals in the brain. The effect of serotonin is to increase the feelings of well-being and contentment, to calm and to soothe.
Mannanoligosaccharides
Mannanoligosaccharides are sources of non-digestible, soluble fiber that serve as food for the probiotics or "good" bugs in the large intestine, keeping them healthy. Examples of prebiotics are: arabinogalactan, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, mannanoligosaccharides (MOS), pectin and psyllium.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family, is considered a calming herb. Used in the Middle Ages to reduce stress and promote sleep, today it is often combined with other soothing herbs such as chamomile, hops and valerian to enhance their overall relaxing effect.
Return to Top
Magnesium (Mg)
Magnesium (Mg) is a macromineral involved in hundreds of metabolic processes in the body including energy production, genetic coding, protein synthesis, hormone secretion and white blood cell development as well as muscle and nerve cell function. With half of the body’s magnesium located in bone tissue, this mineral plays an essential role in the structure of bones and teeth.
MSM
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a source of organic sulfur which is required for a number of functions in the body. Sulfur plays critical roles in the formation of protein, connective tissue, immunoglobulins and enzymes. MSM is a safe and inexpensive compound that may support healthy joints, a strong immune system, and resilient skin and coat.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 Fatty Acids are named for their chemical structure but are valued for their health benefits. In order for the body to function well, there must be a balance between the omega-3s (generally considered anti-inflammatory) and the omega-6s (generally considered pro-inflammatory). Good sources of Omega 3 fatty acids include fish oil and flax seed.
Pancrelipase
Pancrelipase is a mixture of three enzymes normally made by the pancreas: amylase, lipase and protease. Together, these enzymes break down fats, protein and starch in the diet into smaller particles which the small intestine can then absorb. Supplementing pancreatic enzymes is useful when the pancreas cannot make them itself or when the enzymes cannot reach the intestines where they are needed for digestion.
Passion Flower
Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) is an herb known as “nature’s tranquilizer.” Its gentle but effective sedative effects were first recognized by South American Indians and now are used throughout the world for insomnia, nervous anxiety, restlessness and tension. Passion flower is believed to cause relaxation by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter GABA. It is often used in combination with more potent calming herbs such as valerian.
Perna Mussel
Perna (Perna Mussel, Green-Lipped Mussel, Sea Mussel) is a shellfish that naturally contains a number of active compounds that work against inflammation and the destructive cycle of degenerative joint disease, or, arthritis. The unique combination of biologically active proteins, chelated minerals, glycosaminoglycans, amino acids, nucleic acids and essential fatty acids work together to maintain healthy connective tissue.
Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is an amino acid that is involved in the production of certain brain chemicals such as epinephrine and dopamine. Preliminary studies suggest it may help reduce chronic pain associated with certain health conditions because of its proposed ability to block enzymes which break down endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain-killing and “feel good” chemicals. For this reason, it is also used in people with certain forms of depression but not in anxious patients because it may amplify nervousness.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus (P) is a macromineral that, like Calcium, is found in highest amounts in bone but also has an important role in muscle function. Other functions include energy production and the synthesis of many vital compounds such as DNA. The ideal ratio between Calcium and Phosphorus from dogs is between 1.2:1 and 1.4:1.
Potassium
Potassium (K) is a macromineral commonly referred to as an electrolyte because it helps maintain the body’s acid/base balance and hydration status. It plays a vital role in muscle contraction and is also required for nerve impulse transmission, enzyme reactions and transport functions.
Return to Top
Prebiotics
Prebiotics include non-digestible soluble fiber that serve as food for the probiotics or “good” bugs and stimulate their growth. Examples of prebiotics are fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), mannanoligosaccharids (MOS), arabinogalactan, and inulin from chicory.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria and yeast) fed to promote healthy digestive and immune function. When these “good” bugs break down food ingredients that the body normally can’t, they product energy and vitamins for the body, food for cells in the cecum and colon, and byproduts that keep the “bad” bugs from growing. Research suggests probiotics are useful in repopulating the intestine with “good” bugs after antibiotic use and may benefit certain animals with diarrhea.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) is a water soluble vitamin involved in more than 100 enzyme reactions. It plays a role in a wide range of physiological processes including nervous system function, niacin synthesis, red blood cell function, immune response, fat metabolism, hormone modulation and gene expression. Deficiency may result in nervous system signs, therefore it is included in many calming supplements.
Quercetin
Quercetin
is a bioflavonoid or plant-source antioxidant that appears to have especially protective effects on nervous tissue and connective tissue, such as collagen. In addition, it possesses strong anti-inflammatory activity, especially against the action of histamine, and may be beneficial for allergic conditions. It is used along with other bioflavonoids in the management of cancer in both humans and animals.
Rice
Definition: A high quality source of carbohydrates, protein and fiber.
Return to Top
Selenium
Selenium (Se) is a micromineral that partners with Vitamin E in the body’s antioxidant defense system to trap free radicals produced by exercise, illness and certain medical conditions. It is also involved in the production of thyroid hormone.
Shark Cartilage
Shark Cartilage is the skeletal material of shark and has been consumed as a health food in traditional Chinese medicine for its many benefits. Recent scientific studies have confirmed its use specifically in joint health. It is an excellent dietary source of chondroitin sulfate and other glycoaminoglycans (GAGs) that are the building blocks of cartilage. It also contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc and other bone-building minerals.
Sodium
Sodium (Na) is a macromineral commonly referred to as an electrolyte because it helps maintain the body’s acid/base balance and hydration status. It is commonly known as "salt" when combined with its partner Chloride. Sodium is critical for normal nerve and muscle function, as well as transport of many substances (such as glucose) across cell membranes.
Soy
Soy or Soybean is a plant in the legume family. It is valued worldwide for its high protein content as well as its high fat content. Although not a complete protein source for dogs and cats, it does contain many essential amino acids. Likewise, it contains both the essential fatty acids alpha-linolenic acid (an Omega 3) and linoleic acid (and Omega 6) as well as another valuable fatty acid, lecithin. In addition it is rich in B-vitamins and several minerals including Magnesium and Iron. Soybeans also contain phytates, oxalates and nondigestible sugars which may cause problems in some people and animals.
Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD)
Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) also known as orgotein, is the most important and effective antioxidant in the body and is the first line of defense against free radicals that damage cells. However, it is a delicate protein that is quickly degraded by the acids and enzymes in the stomach. In order to pass through to the intestine where it can be absorbed and used by the body, it must be coated with a protective layer.
Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is a water soluble vitamin important in energy and carbohydrate metabolism and in the transmission of impulses along nerves. Some thiamine is produced by microorganisms in the intestinal tract but most is supplied by the diet. However, significant amounts of thiamine are lost when foods are heat processed or stored for long periods of time. Because a deficiency may result in nervous system signs, it is often used in calming supplements.
Valerian
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a “nervine” or, an herb with specific actions on the nervous system. Its sedating effects can be so potent that it should not be used by people or animals taking central nervous system (CNS) prescription medications or undergoing surgery using general anesthesia. Valerian rebalances a nervous system struggling with restlessness, anxiety and, in humans, insomnia. Because it also relieves muscle cramps and spasm associated with tension, it is especially helpful in animals that process anxiety through their muscles.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable Oil is obtained by extracting oil from the seeds or fruits of a variety of plants including corn, soybean, sunflower and others. Most Vegetable Oils contain linoleic acid, an Omega 6 fatty acid that is essential in the diet of dogs and cats.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is well known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, especially night vision. However, it is also needed for growth, reproduction, immunity and other functions. Dogs have the ability to convert beta-carotene and other carotenoids into the active form of the vitamin but cats require strictly Vitamin A or a precursor known as retinol in the diet.
Vitamin B
The Vitamin B family is made up of several compounds that serve many important roles in the body: protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism; energy production; proper nerve cell transmission; and cell reproduction and division (especially rapidly dividing ones such as red blood cells). B-vitamins include Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), Folic Acid (B9), and Cyanocobalamin (B12). Choline, Biotin, Inositol and others are sometimes referred to as B-vitamins.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is an antioxidant that works with Vitamin A and Vitamin E to protect the tissues of the body, especially those of the respiratory system. It is also important in the production of connective tissues like tendons and ligaments, skin and muscle, bones and teeth. Under normal circumstances, dogs make their own Vitamin C in the liver from glucose. However, liver problems, disease, stress, old age and other conditions have all been shown to decrease blood levels of Vitamin C, meaning dogs struggling with these particular issues may benefit from dietary supplementation.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D (Calciferol) plays an indirect role in bone, muscle and nerve structure and function by managing the levels of Calcium (Ca) in the body. It controls the absorption of Ca form the intestine, the movement of Ca into and out of bone, and the amount of Ca excreted by the kidneys. Vitamin D also plays an important role in proper Phosphorus levels in the body. It is a conditional nutrient, meaning it is only required in the diet when exposure to the sun is limited, since UV light normally converts a precursor of Vitamin D in the skin to the active form of the vitamin.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is most recognized as an antioxidant that works closely with its partners Selenium and Vitamin C to protect the body from oxidative stress. Exercise, illness and certain medical conditions, as well as high fat diets, all increase the requirements of Vitamin E in the diet. A deficiency causes muscle weakness and degeneration.
Yucca
Yucca is an herb native to North and Central America used by ancient and modern civilizations to relieve pain and inflammation. While its mechanism of action is largely unknown, active ingredients have been isolated from Yucca that have antioxidant, antiplatelet-clumping and anti-inflammatory properties.
Zinc
Zinc (Zn) is a micromineral involved in over 100 enzyme systems ranging from connective tissue formation and antioxidant protection to carbohydrate metabolism and immune system function. It is most recognized for its role in skin health, working synergistically with fatty acids to produce a soft, glossy coat.
Return to Top
Disclaimer: The content of this web site is provided for information purposes only. No claim is made as to the accuracy
or authenticity of the content of the web site. SmartPak Equine does not accept any liability to any person for the information
or advice (or the use of such information or advice) that is provided on this web site or incorporated into it by reference.
The information on the SmartPak Equine web site is provided on the basis that all persons accessing this site undertake
responsibility for assessing the relevance and accuracy of its content.