Immune Balance Pathway
The NGD Care Immune Balance Program is a supplement schedule for dogs and cats, formulated for the normal functioning of the immune system. Vitamin C contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system.
- A shared foundation and three targeted directions
- Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
- Contains beta-glucans and lactoferrin, among others.
- Consult your veterinarian first if your animal is ill or taking medication.
Description
QUICK SUMMARY
The Immune Balance Program is a supplement regimen for dogs and cats, formulated for the normal function of the immune system. It consists of a common base and three additional tracks.
Why a program and not a separate supplement?
The immune system of dogs and cats is a complex network in which various cells, tissues, and organs work together. Nutrition, gut flora, the living environment, and the animal’s general condition are also part of that interconnectedness. From an integrative nutritional perspective, we therefore look beyond a single isolated body function.
Because not every animal has the same nutritional needs, this program consists of a common base and three additional tracks. The starting point is not to use the same ingredients for every animal, but to take the individual animal into account.
One immune system, different nutritional needs
The immune system consists of various components that constantly communicate with each other. Immune cells, signaling molecules, nutrients, and gut flora all play a role. This program was developed from that systems biology perspective.
A large part of the immune system is located in and around the intestinal wall. The type and amount of dietary fiber help determine which bacteria live in the gut. Gut bacteria produce butyric acid, among other things, from fiber.
Fatty acids are an energy source and a building block for cell walls, including those of immune cells. Omega-3 fatty acids are incorporated there, and enzymes convert them into signaling molecules.
Immune cells need vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. For example, they contain a lot of vitamin C, and lactoferrin is a protein that binds iron.
The immune system must be able to react to external factors, but also be able to calm down and tolerate what is harmless. The latter is called tolerance. That is why there are different tracks instead of one combination for every animal.
Why this order?
The base with nutrition and gut flora always comes first. Then you choose one track: general defense, tolerance and balance, or skin and environment.
How does the Immune Balance Program work?
The program consists of nutrition as a foundation, a supplement base, and three tracks. After the base, you choose one track. The ingredients are listed for each supplement.
Immune cells need amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and trace elements. Fresh, varied food provides these, and ground vegetables provide fiber for the gut flora, where a large part of the immune system resides.
Variation in fresh meat as a base: beef, chicken, lamb, game, fish, etc. Preferably raw (BARF, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, or KVV). Rotate protein sources regularly.
20% pureed vegetables added to the meal: zucchini, spinach, broccoli, carrot, pumpkin, etc. Pureed and steamed, they are more digestible for dogs and cats.
Want guidance on switching to different food? Schedule an intake with Stefan Veenstra DVM via NatuurlijkGezondeDieren.nl.
Depending on the current diet, these supplements can form part of the foundation. If you want to focus more on the gut, you can also follow the Gut Support Program. Prebiotic Fibers contains fibers for the gut flora, which surrounds a large part of the immune system. Omega 3 Calanus Oil provides EPA and DHA, which are incorporated into the walls of immune cells. From these, the body produces resolvins, signaling molecules involved in completing an immune response. Liposomal Vitamin C provides vitamin C. Immune cells absorb vitamin C in concentrations many times higher than in the blood and consume it during their work. Daily Multi supplements the diet with vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and selenium, which immune cells need.
This category contains substances associated with the reactive side of the immune system. Myco Immune Complex contains beta-glucans from four mushrooms. Immune cells recognize beta-glucans via the Dectin-1 receptor, which is why this complex is central to this approach. Liposomal Lactoferrin contains a protein that binds iron tightly, which neutrophils store in their granules. Longevity Support provides NAD+ and astragalus. Immune cells that become active consume a lot of NAD+. Astragalus has long been used in Chinese tradition and studied in relation to the immune system.
This category contains substances associated with the calming of the immune system, without mushrooms. PEA Complex contains PEA, a substance produced by the body itself that is being studied in relation to mast cells, and boswellia. Liposomal Curcumin contains curcumin, a polyphenol being studied in relation to NF-kB, a switch that determines how many signaling molecules an immune cell releases. Liposomal Glutathione is the most important antioxidant within the cell. Immune cells produce many free radicals during their work.
This category emphasizes the skin, where immune cells are in direct contact with the environment. Skin Support combines PEA and quercetin, which are being studied in relation to mast cells in the skin, with zinc, biotin, and MSM. Liposomal Curcumin contains curcumin, a polyphenol from turmeric. In the skin, curcumin is being studied in relation to keratinocytes and mast cells, the cells that first come into contact with the environment.
How do you use the program?
Start with the base. Then choose one track. The choice depends on the animal, the existing diet, and other supplements your animal receives; discuss this with your veterinarian or during a consultation with Stefan Veenstra. In weeks 1 to 3, introduce the products according to the schedule, and then use them according to the amount per weight for each supplement. After 6 to 12 weeks, assess whether the schedule still fits the diet and the animal. For long-term use, do this regularly, and in case of medication, in consultation with the treating veterinarian.
Do you have questions during the program, or want to tailor the schedule to your pet? Schedule an intake with integrative veterinarian Stefan Veenstra.
Frequently asked questions
Why does this program consist of three tracks?
Not every dog or cat has the same nutritional needs. That is why there are three different combinations, each with its own selection of ingredients.
Which track fits my animal?
That depends on the animal, the existing diet, and other supplements. Discuss it with your veterinarian or schedule a consultation with Stefan Veenstra.
Can I switch or combine tracks?
Do not use multiple tracks simultaneously without having the total amount and possible interactions assessed. Liposomal Curcumin is included in tracks 2 and 3.
Why do only track 1 contain Myco Immune Complex and Longevity Support?
The three tracks are deliberately formulated with different ingredients. The beta-glucans from mushrooms and the astragalus in Longevity Support are therefore not standard in the other two tracks.
Can my animal use these supplements alongside medication?
Consult with the treating veterinarian first, especially with medications that affect the immune system or blood clotting.
Why choose the NGD Care Immune Balance Program?
| Feature | NGD Care |
|---|---|
| Composition | A schedule with NGD Care supplements, in a fixed order. |
| Human grade | We use human-grade ingredients. |
| Individual guidance | Would you like personal advice for your animal? This is possible via a consultation with Stefan Veenstra. |
Scientific literature
- Goodridge HS, et al. (2009). Beta-glucan recognition by the innate immune system. Immunological Reviews.
- González-Chávez SA, et al. (2009). Lactoferrin: structure, function and applications. International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents.
- Carr AC, Maggini S. (2017). Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients.
Want to read more about nutrients and body processes?
In the knowledge base, you’ll find background articles about nutrition and how the body works. Have a question about this program or want personal advice? Feel free to contact us.
Developed by Stefan Veenstra DVM, integrative veterinarian. Stefan is the founder of NGD Care, NGD Care Academy and Integrative Veterinary Center Natural Healthy Animals. Read more about Stefan →
This information is educational in nature and does not replace a veterinary consultation. In case of severe or persistent complaints, always consult a veterinarian.
Ingredients, dosage and use
- See the individual ingredients
- For the first month, we recommend a double therapeutic dose of 2x daily. Then a maintenance dose of 1x daily.
- Each phase is suitable for a treatment of 2-4 months for a dog or cat <10kg and for 1-2 months for a dog of 10-30kg.
Disclaimer
- This product is a dietary supplement and not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and varied balanced diet.
- The products are not medicines and cannot be used as medicines, but as a dietary supplement. In case of illness or other medical condition, always consult a veterinarian before use.
- Dietary supplements may have interactions and side effects with regular medications.
- Keep out of reach of young children.
- Consult an expert before using supplements in case of pregnancy, lactation, medication use and illness.