Pre & Probiotics: Must Haves in Dog Food

You’ve probably heard a lot about pre and probiotics as they’ve become more popular in human food, but do you know what they are and how they work? Some human foods like yogurt include different forms of added pre and probiotics, and there are a few different types that have been found to help maintain your dog’s health. For example, pre and probiotics can help improve your dog’s digestive health due to the beneficial bacteria they provide.

TLC includes pre and probiotics in our formulas to support your pet’s gut and overall digestive health. Learn more about these ingredients, how they work, and how they support your dog’s ‘Whole Life’ nutrition.

What is the difference between Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Probiotics

Probiotics help regulate the intestinal microbial environment. As a result, pathogens and harmful bacteria are stopped from colonizing in the digestive system. TLC Whole Life Dog Food contains the four most important types of probiotic beneficial bacteria:

1. Enterococcus Faecium promotes bowel and colon health. In addition, they help counter other toxic bacteria, including E. coli.
2. Lactobacillus Acidophilus inhabits the intestines to protect against unhealthy organisms. For example, these beneficial bacteria break down nutrients in the intestine. As a result, it produces lactic acid and other compounds that make the environment hostile to toxic organisms.
3. Lactobacillus Casei inhabits the mouth and intestines to protect against unhealthy organisms. For instance, Lactobacillus Casei may assist in the elimination of the negative H. Pylori bacteria, which may be responsible for stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal ailments.
4. Bifidobacterium thermophilum is a genus of anaerobic bacteria and a form of probiotic that is thought to have health-promoting properties. Bifidobacteria are one of the major strains of bacteria that make up the gut flora. This refers to the tiny organisms that help keep your dog’s digestive tract healthy.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are a non-digestible compound that helps to encourage the growth and activity of probiotics. When they reach the intestine, the prebiotics feed the beneficial bacteria, providing good digestive health.

TLC Whole Life Dog Food contains Chicory root and Mannan-Oligosaccharides (MOS).

• Chicory root contains the soluble fiber inulin, which also feeds beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
• Mannan-Oligosaccharides are a type of sugar that feeds the beneficial bacteria found in the intestine, encouraging gastrointestinal health and performance.

By supporting a healthy digestive system, you’ll notice more regular, firmer stools and less mess. Most importantly, good bacteria in the gut help boost the immune system, ward off pathogens, and aid in the absorption of essential nutrients.