All of us at Do Only Good (D.O.G.) Pet Food is proud to introduce the first member to our treat line: D.O.G. Organic Sweet Potatoes. As you know, we value ingredient transparency and the health of all pets. We wanted our first treat to be pure and holistic, with the nutritional benefits you have come to know and trust about our brand. I hope you enjoy this month’s article and give our new treats a try – they are already a hit with the four-legged members of our households!
I am sure that many of you will have the opportunity to partake of sweet potatoes during your Thanksgiving feast; lucky you! However, if you think sweet potatoes should be only reserved for holiday meals, please think again. These colorful root tubers should be a regular part of your healthy diet and can be beneficial for your pets as well.
One aspect about sweet potatoes that we are all looking for today is that they are low in fat and defined as a ‘whole food.’ Whole foods have minimal or no processing and remain (for the most part) in their natural state. Couple this with the natural presence of soluble and insoluble fiber in sweet potatoes, and you have a winning combination of keeping your pet’s digestive tract in great working order.
Sweet potatoes have more nutritional benefits and a lower glycemic index (GI) than white potatoes. The one caveat is if your pet is diabetic and may be overweight[i], you should discuss with your veterinarian a program to closely monitor your pet’s blood sugar levels and the glycemic index of their daily diet, including treats. Studies have shown in the human and mouse that extracts from the sweet potato have helped produce adiponectin (a protein hormone) from the animal’s fat cells that serves as a key converter of insulin metabolism.[ii] In other words, the sweet potatoes’ ability to assist in encouraging adiponectin production may help with blood sugar regulation.
In previous articles, I have lauded the importance of carotenoids, which are antioxidant powerhouses. Sweet potatoes have these, plus they are a great source of beta-carotene, which converts into Vitamin A, an essential nutrient for helping your dog maintain overall health. Sweet potatoes also have vital minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, which support your pet’s daily need for these essential nutrients.
I hope you allow your dog to sample our new organic sweet potato treats. https://www.doonlygoodpetfood.com/product/organic-sweet-potato-treat/
As always, we appreciate your feedback. I also hope that you and yours have a healthy and wonderful holiday season.
[i] Shmalberg, J. (2019, November 17). Treatment of Obesity in Cats and Dogs. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/nutrition-notes-treatment-of-obesity/
[ii] Brunson, B. (2007, August 15). Characterization of Adiponectin in the Canine. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from https://etd.auburn.edu/handle/10415/84
