Heart Support Trajectory
The NGD Care Heart Support Program is a three-phase supplement schedule for dogs and cats, formulated for the heart and blood vessels. Use it in consultation with your veterinarian.
- A three-phase supplement program.
- Formulated for the heart and blood vessels.
- Does not replace medication.
- Use this program in consultation with your veterinarian.
Description
QUICK SUMMARY
The Heart Support Program is a three-phase supplement schedule for dogs and cats, formulated for the heart and blood vessels. Use this program in consultation with your veterinarian.
Why a program and not a separate supplement?
The heart muscle consumes energy continuously, largely derived from the combustion of fatty acids in the mitochondria. This requires L-carnitine and coenzyme Q10, among other substances.
This program begins with the gut flora and subsequently includes substances involved in energy metabolism and the antioxidant system.
Four processes in and around the heart
The heart is much more than a pump. Its function is linked to energy in the heart muscle, regulation by nerves and hormones, connective tissue, and even the gut. This program was formulated from this systems biology perspective. If your pet receives medication from a veterinarian, this program is never a replacement for it.
The heart works day and night and consumes more energy than almost any other organ. This energy primarily comes from fatty acids, which are burned in the mitochondria. L-carnitine transports fatty acids into the mitochondria, and coenzyme Q10 passes electrons through the chain that produces ATP.
Heart rate, blood pressure, and fluid balance are regulated by the autonomic nervous system and by hormones, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). In this way, the body constantly adjusts the heart’s workload to what is needed. Magnesium and taurine play a role in the electrical impulses within the heart muscle.
Between the heart’s muscle cells lies a network of connective tissue containing collagen, which gives the heart its shape and strength. Fibroblasts create and maintain this network. Signaling molecules such as TGF-beta regulate how much collagen is produced.
Gut bacteria produce substances that enter the bloodstream. For example, they produce TMA, which the liver converts into TMAO, a substance being researched in relation to the blood vessel walls. LPS, a component of the cell wall of certain bacteria, is also being researched in relation to the immune system. Therefore, this program begins with the gut flora.
Why this order?
The phases follow this sequence: first the gut flora and antioxidants, then energy for the heart muscle, and finally an ongoing phase. If your pet is on medication, always consult with the treating veterinarian.
How does the Heart Support Program work?
The program consists of three consecutive phases. The ingredients are listed for each supplement.
Prebiotic Fibers contains fibers that serve as food for gut bacteria. Biofilm Balance contains NAC, lactoferrin, and digestive enzymes and is formulated for normal intestinal function. Liposomal Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation and the normal function of the immune system. Liposomal Curcumin contains curcumin, a fat-soluble polyphenol from turmeric.
If your pet has already started the Gut Support Program, this phase is not necessary and you can start directly with phase 2.
Cardiovascular Support contains taurine, L-carnitine, magnesium, and coenzyme Q10, with extracts of olive leaf, hawthorn, and hibiscus, and is formulated for the heart and blood vessels. Liposomal Coenzyme Q10 is part of the energy production in the mitochondria. O-Mega Blend contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are incorporated into cell membranes. PEA Complex contains PEA, a substance the body also produces itself. PEA is researched in relation to mast cells, immune cells found in many tissues, and in relation to the nervous system. It also contains Boswellia serrata.
Cardiovascular Support continues from a previous phase. Longevity Support contains NAD+, resveratrol, astragalus, and ergothioneine. Liposomal Vitamin B-Complex contains B vitamins, which contribute to a normal energy-yielding metabolism. O-Mega Blend continues from a previous phase.
How do you use the program?
Administer the supplements twice daily for the first 2 months of each phase. Thereafter, administer them once daily. The amount per weight is listed for each supplement. Use this program in consultation with your 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
Does this replace medication?
No, never. This program does not replace medication. Never change medication yourself.
Why in consultation with the vet?
Some ingredients may affect the efficacy of medications.
What is in Cardiovascular Support?
Each capsule contains taurine, L-carnitine, olive leaf extract, hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), L-arginine, hibiscus extract, magnesium bisglycinate, and liposomal coenzyme Q10. Cardiovascular Support is included in phase 2 and phase 3.
How long does the program take?
The initial phases are spread over approximately 16 weeks. This is followed by an ongoing phase.
Why the NGD Care Heart Support 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
- Schaffer SW, et al. (2010). Physiological roles of taurine in heart and muscle. Journal of Biomedical Science.
- Longo N, et al. (2016). Carnitine transport and fatty acid oxidation. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta.
- Bentinger M, et al. (2010). Coenzyme Q: biosynthesis and functions. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.
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
- Ingredients can be found under the individual products
- For the first 2 months of each phase, we recommend a therapeutic dosage of twice daily. Afterwards, you can switch to a maintenance dosage of once daily.
- Therapeutic dosage
- For a maximum of 8 weeks on the advice of a veterinarian or therapist
- <10kg 2xdaily 1/2 capsule
- 10-30kg 1 capsule 2xdaily
- >30kg 2x daily 2 capsules
- Maintenance Dosing
- <10kg 1x daily 1/2 capsule
- 10-30kg 1x daily 1 capsule
- >30kg 2 capsules 1x day
- This means that for a dog weighing 10 to 30 kg, you must select the product twice for each phase to provide the correct dosage for 8 weeks.
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.