We share ideas on how to increase diversity in the equestrian community; in Critter Nutrition we focus on the super-antioxidant astaxanthin for dogs, horses, and humans; and in Coffee Klatch we share the trends, equestrian and otherwise, we are glad are over.
Listen in…
Guests and Links for Episode 112:
- Link to Sound File for Sight Impaired: Click Here
- Co-Hosts: Tigger Montague from BiostarUS and Pati Pierucci from from Pierucci Dressage
- Antioxidant Recovery Supplement for Dogs – AstaZan 14 with astaxanthin
- Ask Hedwig on Facebook
- Learn more about Whole Foods for Horses and Dogs
Co-host Tigger Montague explains the many health benefits of astaxanthins—for horses and dogs as well as humans:
“Astaxanthin is a carotenoid found in micro algae (Haematococcus pluvialis), plankton, and krill. The microalgae and the krill are eaten by crustaceans, which in turn are eaten by salmon and trout. Astaxanthin is found in high concentrations in the muscles of salmon, which scientists theorize is what helps the salmon complete their epic yearly swim.
Although astaxanthin is a carotenoid like beta-carotene, it is not converted into vitamin A (retinol). Unlike the carotenes, astaxanthin can cross the blood-brain barrier to bring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection to the brain and central nervous system, as well as cross the blood-retinal barrier to bring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection to the eyes.
Astaxanthin has a long chain structure, so it can span the bilateral membrane thus incrementing resilience against oxidative stress. It can quench free radicals in both water and fat zones of the membrane—in contrast to other antioxidants which work either in the inner (vitamin E, and beta-carotene) or outer (vitamin C) portion of the membrane.
A study published 2010, conducted at the School of Food Science, Washington State University, demonstrated that daily doses of astaxanthin in humans decreased a DNA damage biomarker, acute phase protein, and enhanced the immune response (JS Park, JLT Chuyun, et al)…”
At Healthy Critters Radio, we are hopeless animal lovers who want to share our experience and knowledge with you, for the betterment of your animals’ lives. We focus on health, nutrition, behavior, and ideas for overall well-being and happiness. Twice a month, we bring you guest experts, advice, commentary, and a lot of fun and laughter! If there is ever a topic you’d like for us to cover, let us know on our contact page!
