VITAMINS IN VEGETABLES
Vegetables are a great source of fibre, minerals and vitamins. Whole food sources of vitamins keep pets' skin and coat healthy, strengthen bones and teeth, and provide the necessary co-factors to fuel reactions for the body to make energy. In addition, vitamins contribute to disease resistance.
The vitamins found in ultra-processed pet food are laboratory made (synthetic), "feed grade" (not tested for contaminants or impurities) and can be found in unnatural amounts, compared to real food sources. Fresh veggies provide whole food nutrients in the form your pet's body recognises and resonates with.
Provitamin A or beta-carotene, is important for sight, cell division and the immune system; is required to generate cells; supports the immune system; and plays an important role in the growth of young animals. The carotenoids are found in coloured veggies like broccoli, spinach carrots, squash, sweet potatoes and tomatoes.
B Vitamins are found in green vegetables like broccoli, spinach and pumpkin.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is necessary to convert carbohydrates into energy, and for the proper functioning of the heart muscle, the nervous system and the brain.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) plays an important role in releasing energy from carbohydrates, protein and fat and is required for the generation of red blood cells and antibodies
Vitamin B6 is involved in energy production and the metabolism of fats and proteins (building amino acids); it also regulates the functioning of certain hormones and is vital to growth, blood production and the proper functioning of the immune system and nervous system
Vitamin B9 (folic acid) contains folate and is necessary for the growth and functioning of the body, the generation of white and red blood cells and clearing of homocysteine, and also plays an important role in the early development of unborn puppies and kittens
Vitamin C is an antioxidant necessary for immune system function, construction of connective tissue (collagen), and the absorption of iron. Broccoli and pumpkin are two sources pets usually love.
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that protects cells against the effects of free radicals and plays a role in the regulation of cellular metabolism, the generation of red blood cells, and the maintenance of muscle and other tissues. Vitamin E is found in broccoli, pumpkin, spinach and carrots.
Vitamin K is essential for good blood clotting and is required for bone strength. Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.