Turmeric has been studied a lot! By 2023, researchers have conducted over 41,000 studies on curcumin and turmeric. Curcumin, a special part of turmeric, has long been used to help with upset stomachs and digestion issues like gas and diarrhea. Newer studies show curcumin can help dogs with inflammation and diseases related to it, such as certain types of cancer. Turmeric also has strong antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Some benefits of turmeric for dogs are backed by solid research, while others are based on stories from people and expert opinions.
Introduction
Inflammation is a big reason why dogs get sick. It can cause issues like joint pain and problems with digestion. Managing inflammation well is very important for dogs to stay healthy and live a long time.
Turmeric: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory
Turmeric is a special spice that helps fight inflammation in both humans and dogs. The active part of turmeric, called curcumin, works by calming down the body's immune responses and reducing inflammation.
Benefits of Turmeric for Dogs
- Joint Health: Turmeric can make joint pain and stiffness better, which is great for older dogs and those with arthritis.
- Digestive Support: It helps dogs digest food better and soothes stomach problems like inflammatory bowel disease.
- Immune Boost: Turmeric's antioxidants make the immune system stronger, which helps protect dogs from getting sick.
- Heart Health: Some studies suggest turmeric might make the heart work better in dogs.
- Cancer: Research shows curcumin might slow down cancer growth and lower inflammation linked to cancer. More studies are needed for dogs, but early results are promising.
- Depression: Turmeric might help dogs feel happier by reducing inflammation in the brain, similar to its effects in humans. More studies are still needed to be sure.
Adding Turmeric to Your Dog’s Diet
It's easy to add turmeric to your dog's diet! You can find treats that have turmeric in them to help with joints and overall health such as NUFF Peanut Butter With Turmeric, and Turmeric Yak Himalayan Cheese.
Conclusion
Giving your dog turmeric is a natural and good way to reduce inflammation and keep them healthy. Some benefits come from what people say and what experts think, while others are shown by science. Using treats with turmeric is a gentle way to help your dog live longer and feel better.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10572432/ https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-0-387-46401-5_3 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31590362/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31423805/ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/turmeric-benefits-a-look-at-the-evidence
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/turmeric
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268268687_Turmeric_A_Herbal_and_Traditional_Medicine
https://badgut.org/information-centre/health-nutrition/many-benefits-turmeric/