Of the many forms of cancer that strike our dogs each year, all have one thing in common – they take advantage of a weakened host. The holistic approach to cancer starts by providing the immune system with the tools it needs to perform at its best. Supplying the body with high-quality animal protein diets and supplements such as antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

Recent research has shown some promising developments regarding specific diets for dogs with cancer. It is found that diets that appear to benefit the cancer patient are low in carbohydrates, high in bio-available animal protein and ample levels of fat.

Carbohydrates are made up of chains of saccharides (sugars) which are the easiest accessible sources of energy for the body. Unfortunately these sugars offer fuel to cancer cells. Some carbohydrates that may have long-term effects on animals with cancer are corn, potatoes and beet pulp.

In the August 14, 2002, issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers at Stockholm University had evidence of the presence of high levels of acrylamide in carbohydrate rich foods like potatoes. Acrylamide induces gene mutations and has been found in animal tests to cause malignant stomach tumors. On the glycemic index, potatoes have the highest amount of sugar of any root vegetable.  Can this be another reason for the upswing in diabetes!

In contrast, proteins from high-quality animal sources are important.  Animal protein is more easily digested and highly palatable. Avoid incomplete plant protein sources like; soy, wheat and grain fragments. Soy is also high in phytates, which can block absorption of much needed minerals such as magnesium, copper, calcium and zinc.

The addition of n-3 fatty acids (omega 3) is important in the dog’s diet.  Studies have shown that Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA’s), especially eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), fatty acids may prevent the development of carcinogen-induced tumors, the growth of solid tumors, as well as the occurrence of cachexia. Salmon, sardine and anchovy are good sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

Vitamin C has been studied continuously over the last several decades as an antioxidant and an agent that can effectively treat conditions such as colds, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Sprouts are one of the most complete and nutritional of all foods that exist.  They contain high amounts of antioxidant properties and are rich with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and enzymes. Because they are baby plants, their delicate cell walls easily release elemental nutrients and are easily digestible. Great Life, which manufacturers a freeze-dried raw coated kibble, uses several different sprouts in its ingredients. This makes their product an easy to feed super-food with all the benefits to help fight cancer.

According to Greg Tilford (owner of Animal Essentials) a brand new study, funded by the American Institute for Cancer Research, the Tamarind Foundation, and the National Cancer Institute, has just been published that supports what most herbalists have known for quite sometime – Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum), helps to reduce liver toxicity in patients receiving chemotherapy. The study, which was published on December 14, 2009, also shows that milk thistle appears to have no antagonistic impact on chemotherapy drugs.

The live enzymes, minerals and vitamins in raw food diets are unmatched by any home-cooked or processed food.  Either for prevention or cancer patient, a diet of meat, bone and organ mimics that of the diet of their ancestors prior to the invention of commercial processed foods over 70 years ago. Organ meats are high in B Vitamins, which play an important role in cell metabolism, enhance the function of the immune and nervous system. There are several safe and easy to feed raw diet options that most independent stores carry in the Northern Virginia area. (During chemotherapy or other immune taxing therapies, consult with your veterinarian oncologist on feeding raw foods.) When preparing raw food for your pet, try to use free-range, pasture raised and organic products.

Whichever way you decide to feed your cancer patient, make sure that the diet is evaluated on a regular basis, always keeping your pet’s overall condition in mind and get expert advice by speaking with your nutritionist and veterinarian.