Pumpkin

Pumpkin is also a real superfood for dogs. Both the flesh and seeds of pumpkin are extremely nutritious. Pumpkin is rich in L-tryptophan, a substance that contributes to a positive mood and also has a beneficial effect on sleep. It also contains a lot of beta-carotene, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, manganese, B vitamins, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin. The seeds are a source of protein, fiber, iron, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, zinc and vitamin K, as well as healthy unsaturated fats.

It is naturally a soothing food for the stomach and can be used for diarrhea complaints. But conversely it can also be used for constipation.

1. Supports digestion:

Thanks to its high soluble fiber content, pumpkin is very beneficial for your dog’s digestion. If you feed your dog a little pumpkin, it will help regulate bowel movements. Ideal for dogs with anal gland problems, for example!

In addition, the fermentation (by intestinal bacteria) of the same fibers produces beneficial fatty acids that provide energy to cells. Finally, pumpkin also helps lower the acidity level of your dog’s colon. This has a beneficial effect on the composition of the microbiome (intestinal flora).

Adding pumpkin to our meals also helps to give your dog a better feeling of satiety.

2. Prebiotics:

Prebiotics are essential (fiber) compounds that are present in specific foods, including pumpkin and butternut squash. Prebiotics are an important breeding ground for important bacteria in the digestive tract.

3. Bladder and urinary tract:

Also super interesting is that pumpkin is good for the bladder. The wonderful combination of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants supports urinary tract health and helps prevent urinary tract infections, as well as painful kidney and bladder stones.

4. Healthy for the eyes:

Like all other orange fruits and vegetables, pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted in the body to vitamin A. Vitamin A, along with the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, promotes eye health. It helps prevent cataracts and reduces the risk of macular degeneration, an eye disease.

5. Skin and coat:

Pumpkin is excellent for dogs with skin complaints. Vitamins A and C have soothing properties for the skin and also stimulate collagen production. Zinc is effective against acne because it regulates oil production and helps skin repair. The essential fatty acids and vitamin E present support the maintenance of a healthy barrier function of the skin cells.