Blueberries

We've all heard blueberries being referred to as a superfood and just like any other superfood - their claim to fame can often be doubted and yet these small blueberries have been researched extensively over the years both in humans and dogs! They’re packed full of goodness that can benefit our dog’s health and well-being when fed as part of a species-appropriate diet. Even wolves In the wild have been known to enjoy these blue balls of goodness, accounting for up to 2/3rds of their total food intake during the summer months.

Studies involving blueberries for dogs

In the 1990s and early 2000s, researchers began digging into the health benefits of blueberries and the research is ever-growing. Unlike many other superfoods, Researchers have actually looked into how blueberries can benefit dogs over the years. 

In one example published in the journal Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, researchers examined the effects of blueberries in sledge dogs after exercise. They noted that when supplemented with the berries, the dogs exhibited significantly higher levels of antioxidants, suggesting that blueberries may help protect against exercise-induced oxidative damage.

In another animal study, blueberries exhibited anti-inflammatory properties in rats affected with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Researchers noted that biological inflammatory markers were lower once blueberries were consumed, with results suggesting that blueberries may help restore neurotransmitter imbalances.

In another study, researchers in Italy divided service dogs into two groups. Both groups ate kibble … but they gave one group of dogs blueberries and other berries. After 18 weeks the dogs eating blueberries had lower markers of oxidative stress. There was also a significant reduction in oxidative stress. 

A study on older humans showed eating 2 cups of blueberries a day improved mobility. In other trials, people who drank blueberry juice had lower blood sugar levels. 

More research cited by Dana Scott 

“Human studies show children do better on cognitive tests after eating blueberries. They show “dietary blueberry” improves cognition in older humans.  Another study showed that mice eating blueberries were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. And one showed pro-inflammatory genes in aged rats were reduced to the levels of young rats.”

Benefits 

Carotenoids

These yellow, orange and red pigments can boost canine immunological function. Even though blueberries are obviously blue, they do contain beta-carotene, which is a carotenoid.

Fibre

This is a kind of indigestible carbohydrate that has various benefits for dogs. These benefits may include weight loss, blood sugar control, and a healthy gastrointestinal system. 

Folate

Blueberries can provide folate for dogs. Folate is known as folic acid. This B vitamin is crucial for metabolism, cell growth, and healthy cell membranes.

Vitamin C

This is a vital antioxidant that can neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. It can also combat cognitive ageing, and reduce inflammation. Vitamin C can fight off certain infections like the canine distemper complex.

Vitamin E

This is a group of fat-soluble antioxidants. They are necessary nutrients. If a dog develops a vitamin E deficiency, it may lead to damage to its retinas.

Vitamin K

These are a group of fat-soluble vitamins necessary for bone metabolism, blood clotting, and controlling the levels of calcium in the blood. If dogs have insufficient amounts of vitamin K in their diet, they may either develop coagulopathy or Factor VII deficiency.

Potassium

This is a mineral and electrolyte that plays a vital role in your dog’s body. Potassium helps to control brain function, nerve impulses, heart function, and muscle activity.

Manganese

Blueberries can be a good source of manganese for dogs. This compound helps dogs digest carbohydrates and proteins. Manganese also activates enzymes that break down fatty acids in your dog’s diet. 

Magnesium

After potassium, this is the second most common positive ion in the mammalian body. It is involved in over 300 different metabolic processes. Some of these processes include nerve function, muscle activity, and regulating blood sugar levels. Magnesium also contributes to the synthesis of proteins, bone tissue, and DNA.

Iron

This is a mineral that is vital for the proper function of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the blood protein that transports oxygen throughout the mammalian body. Iron deficiency results in a condition called anaemia, which can cause various problems in dogs.

Riboflavin

This is also known as Vitamin B2. Blueberries are an excellent way to supply your dog with riboflavin. This water-soluble compound is crucial for dogs. It contributes towards proper metabolism, nutrient absorption, and maintaining healthy tissues. 
Niacin

This is also known as Vitamin B3. Niacin is a water-soluble compound that is necessary for glucose, fatty acid, and amino acid metabolism. Chronic niacin deficiency in dogs is also known as black-tongue.

Phytoestrogens

These are naturally occurring estrogenic hormones found in plants. These hormones are necessary for steroid synthesis, thyroid function, and healthy skin or coat. What are Antioxidants?

What are Antioxidants?

Blueberries contain particularly high quantities of antioxidants and a special antioxidant not found in many other plants; Polyphenols - which are molecules found in plant matter that help combat free radicals and the oxidative stress they create and the best sources are organic berries. 

Antioxidants and Neutralising Oxidative stress  

Oxidation is the common cause of cellular damage and ageing. Over time, metabolic byproducts build up in your dog. These substances are called reactive oxygen species or free radicals. Free radicals amass in your dog’s cells and organs. Free radicals damage your dog’s cells. In fact, they’re the main cause of ageing and degenerative diseases.

The damage free radicals cause to the body is called oxidative stress. When free radicals build up in large amounts, they harm the cell membranes and even DNA. This leads to age-related diseases such as diabetes, arthritis and kidney disease. And the damage to DNA can lead to cell mutations and even cancer.

Free radicals aren’t only a byproduct of metabolism. They can also build up when your dog is exposed to toxins, pollution, chemicals and drugs even the foods your dog eats can also generate free radicals! The main offenders include foods containing preservatives, starches and rancid fats.

However, antioxidants can neutralize free radicals. So any food full of these beneficial compounds, like blueberries, will help combat the damaging effects of free radicals.

In Summary

To sum it up, by feeding your dog blueberries you will be providing beneficial nutrients which can help to promote the following: 

  1. Healthy bones

  2. Low blood pressure

  3. Healthy blood sugar and decreased risk of diabetes

  4. Cardiovascular health

  5. Preventing cancer

  6. Protecting brain cells (neurons)

  7. Healthy digestion

  8. Weight loss

How to Feed Blueberries

Be sure to feed organically grown blueberries This prevents harmful pesticides and herbicides from getting into your dog … where they produce more free radicals. You can add them straight to the bowl or get creative and make treats using them either whole or blitzed with some kefir or goats yoghurt! 

Add no more than 10% of your dog’s daily intake - remember adding any plant matter to your dog’s diet is adding fibre and too much fibre can result in loose stools and in some cases, constipation.