Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “My German shepherd has degenerative myelopathy–similar to MS in humans. Are there supplements you would recommend to stop or delay the progression of this? Thanks!” — Kathy R., Tulsa, OK

A. Dear Kathy, I am so sorry to hear your dog is having health issues. My own dogs, Buddy and Bella, are such a big part of my life. I do have some suggestions, but recommend you consult with your pet’s vet regarding use.

I would first recommend adding curcumin to your dog’s daily regimen. Curcumin, a compound found in the spice turmeric, is a potent antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory that works, via multiple pathways, to benefit overall health. I recommend giving your dog 750 mg daily.

I would also recommend giving your dog a formula that contains a special blend of boswellia and curcumin. Curcumin (from turmeric) and boswellia are two Indian plants that exhibit very effective anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to promoting tissue repair. I recommend giving your dog 1 softgel of this combination daily.

When looking for either product, keep in mind that standard curcumin is very poorly absorbed, so make sure the products you choose feature a curcumin with excellent absorption that has been proven. The best form I have ever found uses micronized curcumin blended with turmeric essential oils in a patented process. This curcumin has been shown to be up to 10 times better absorbed than standard curcumin. It’s also important to find formulas that feature a boswellia extract that has filtered out the majority of beta-boswellic acid, to at least 5% or less. Unlike most boswellic acids, beta-boswellic acid is actually pro-inflammatory. Removing it greatly enhances the potency of the boswellia extract. You also want a boswellia extract that includes at least 10% or more of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), the most active component of boswellia.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally