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Problems
and Controls
Kidney
trouble may come from stones or the compromise of kidney function
for many reasons including the ageing process. Not long ago, it
was believed that less protein in the diet would help kidneys function
better but more recent studies prove that, in fact, protein restriction
is not required in the early stages of kidney failure. Protein restriction
in late-stage failure, however, can be beneficial. Lowering the
amount of phosphorus in the diet is the main goal when the kidneys
need some help. As well, ensuring that the dog is drinking well,
helps calcium oxalate woes. If need be, adding water or a home-made,
low sodium broth to food, is helpful.
Do's
and Don'ts
In
the case of kidney trouble, fish oils such as Wild
Salmon Oil have been proven to be kidney friendly while vegetable
oils are something to stay away from. Vitamin C tends to acidify
urine so you don't want to include it in the diet of a dog with
calcium oxalate stones. Vitamin
E works as an antioxidant to promote overall health. The B-Complex
vitamin group supports almost every cell and body tissue.
Acidophilus
has been proven to help fight urinary tract infections. Ellagic
Acid (see Antioxidant
Booster) is proving to play important roles for the body, including
the kidneys. However, in the case of calcium oxalate stones, tannins
are contra-indicated.
CoQ10
can be beneficial to kidneys and works as a very powerful antioxidant.
Taurine
may also be beneficial.
For
Further Reading
Optimal
Nutrition by Monica Segal
This
book inlcludes in-depth discussions about kidney disease, urate
stones, struvite stones, calcium oxalate stones and sample diets
to address each condition.
Feeding
Older Dogs
by Monica Segal
Truths and myths regarding physiological and dietary changes in
older dogs
Detection of a Lactobacillus Substance that Inhibits E. Coli
by Dr. LJ Leventhal
Acidophilus helps to suppress E. coli in the urinary tract
The Role of Dietary Phosphorus in Managing Renal Disease
by Dr. Chip Coombs, DVM
An article that discusses the role of phosphorus in renal issues and disease
Calcium Oxalate Stone Prevention by Tom Shannon
Preventing calcium oxalate stones through diet
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