You may add them to your breakfast or smoothie, but did you know that chia seeds are also great for dogs? In fact, chia seeds are considered a superfood for dogs, too, and help to add an extra dose of goodness to their diet.
So, what are chia seeds?
Chia seeds are edible seeds from a flowering plant in the mint family and are a great way to supercharge your pup’s diet.
They are rich in antioxidants that can help to neutralise free radicals in the body, and contain a powerful mix of phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc, potassium, magnesium, as well as several vitamins for optimal health.
How can they help your dog?
Whilst they may be teeny tiny, chia seeds certainly pack a punch when it comes to keeping your pup in tip-top shape due to their high nutritional value. They can help with many elements of your pup’s health, including:
Constipation relief
Being a great source of fibre means that chia seeds can help to regulate your pup’s digestive system, and can be a helpful remedy for constipation and keeping their poos in good shape.
Glucose and sugar levels
Chia seeds can help to regulate blood sugar levels, as well as support insulin function, so are great options for all pups – especially those with diabetes.
Supporting healthy cells
Chia seeds are bursting with ALA omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to improve heart health by supporting metabolism in the muscle cells. They can also help to improve brain function and eyesight. These fatty acids also assist with keeping your pup’s skin and coat in great condition.
Increasing satiety
A single chia seed can absorb water up to 12 times its weight. This will help to hydrate your pup and make them feel full for longer. Because of this, chia seeds are great for helping to maintain optimal body weight.
Lyka: putting the super in food
Each of our recipes are carefully formulated by our co-founder and in-house Integrative Vet, Dr. Matthew Muir, alongside a Veterinary Nutritionist, and are designed to provide maximum impact when it comes to health and nutrition. If we won’t eat it, we won’t include it. Your pup deserves to live their best, healthiest and happiest life, so to ensure they are in optimal health, we use a variety of superfoods including chia seeds (of course!) as well as turmeric, blueberries, kale, shiitake mushroom powder, spinach, spirulina, psyllium seed husk and hemp seeds – all human-grade, all great for your pup!
