| As humans become increasingly aware of the | | | | too much fiber has proved to be more harmful |
| many benefits of fiber, they may begin to | | | | than helpful in dogs if it is used improperly or in |
| wonder if fiber has any health benefits or adverse | | | | excess. |
| effects on their pet's health system. Most people | | | | Fiber can also help dogs with diabetes mellitus. |
| know that fiber aids the gastrointestinal system | | | | This common metabolic disease is present when |
| with the passing on of digested food out of the | | | | the pancreas stops producing insulin, thus inhibiting |
| body. So, how does it help dogs? | | | | the proper production and fluctuation of blood |
| So, what exactly is fiber? Fiber is composed of | | | | sugar levels. Research has shown that dogs that |
| several different kinds of compounds, all of which | | | | are given diets that intentionally incorporate fiber |
| are forms of carbohydrates. Popular sources of | | | | are prone to experience less blood sugar |
| fiber found in dog food include some of the | | | | fluctuation. |
| following: rice hulls, corn-based products, soybean | | | | Most people are aware that fiber aids in the |
| hulls, cellulose, beet pulp, bran, peanut hulls, pectin, | | | | prevention of constipation. Fiber is water |
| and citrus pulp, to name a few. Almost all | | | | absorbent, thus it adds bulk to digested contents |
| carbohydrates provide some sources of fiber. | | | | in the intestinal tracts. This encourages movement |
| Though most dog food providers do not | | | | in the intestinal tract and aids in returning regularity |
| intentionally put extra dietary fiber into their food, | | | | to the digestive system and the elimination of |
| they are there in the form of carbohydrates. | | | | waste. |
| Fiber, in moderation, can prove to be beneficial to | | | | It is important to remember, though fiber has |
| your pet. Fiber is known for promoting colon | | | | many benefits to people and pets, it also has a |
| health, it can aid in weight management for heavy | | | | few downsides. Fiber may cause flatulence, |
| dogs, it aids in diarrhea and constipation, and it is | | | | increased stool quantity or size, or a loosening of |
| also known to benefit dogs with diabetes mellitus. | | | | stool consistency. |
| If your dog is becoming increasingly pudgy or | | | | Awareness of fiber has raised questions in pet |
| heavy, you may want to consider slightly | | | | owners about the benefits of fiber for their pets. |
| increasing their fiber intake. Fiber is known to act | | | | When considering changing your pet's diet to one |
| as a "filler"; that is, it gives dogs the feeling of | | | | that contains more fiber, it is important to be |
| fullness after eating. If you are trying to help your | | | | familiar with fiber itself, its uses, its benefits, and |
| dog lose a bit of excess weight, try feeding them | | | | its unpleasant effects. If you have any questions |
| smaller portions and slightly increasing their fiber | | | | about your dog's diet, contact your veterinarian. |
| intake. Before you attempt this though, it is | | | | They will be more than happy to help you find |
| always best to contact your local veterinarian to | | | | the best diet for your pet! |
| discuss the proper weight loss plan for your pet; | | | | |