Microbial Support Trajectory
The NGD Care Microbial Balance Program is a phased nutritional program in three stages for dogs and cats. It combines lactoferrin, mushroom extracts, botanical ingredients, amino acids, and antioxidants.
- A three-phase supplement program.
- Formulated for the natural immune system.
- You receive this schedule on the advice of your veterinarian or after a consultation.
Description
QUICK SUMMARY
The Microbial Balance Program is a phased nutritional program in three stages for dogs and cats. It combines lactoferrin, mushroom extracts, botanical ingredients, amino acids, and antioxidants.
Why a program and not a separate supplement?
The formulation is based on an integrative approach focusing on the gut microbiome, normal immune function, and cellular metabolism. The immune system requires building blocks, cofactors, and energy, and is closely linked to the gut flora.
The program consists of three phases over twenty weeks. Products and duration can be tailored to the animal’s individual nutritional needs.
Four processes in the immune system
The immune system is much more than a single organ. Its function is linked to innate immunity, iron metabolism, energy, and the gut. This protocol was developed from that systems biology perspective.
Cells such as neutrophils and macrophages recognize fixed patterns, such as beta-glucans from fungal cell walls.
Many microorganisms require iron. Lactoferrin is a protein that binds iron tightly, and neutrophils store it in their granules.
Immune cells require significant energy when activated. Coenzyme Q10 and NAD+ are part of cellular energy production.
A large part of the immune system is located in and around the intestinal wall, which constantly renews itself. Therefore, the final phase also contains L-glutamine and fibers.
Why this order?
Phase 1 contains lactoferrin, mushrooms, and antioxidants related to the immune system. Phase 2 focuses on the gut, with enzymes and botanical ingredients, and is assessed individually. Phase 3 contains substances for cellular energy, the intestinal wall, and gut flora.
How does the Microbial Balance Program work?
The program consists of three consecutive phases, with nutrition as the foundation. 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.
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.
The first phase combines nutritional components that occur naturally in the body or are studied for their interaction with physiological processes in the immune system. Liposomal Lactoferrin contains lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein naturally found in colostrum, milk, and various body secretions. Many microorganisms require iron, and neutrophils store lactoferrin in their granules. Myco Immune Complex combines Agaricus, Maitake, Shiitake, and Coriolus. These mushrooms contain various polysaccharides, including beta-glucans, which immune cells like macrophages recognize via the Dectin-1 receptor. PEA Complex contains palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and Boswellia serrata extract. Both ingredients are studied for their interaction with cellular signaling processes. PEA is primarily studied in relation to mast cells, which are involved in initiating and inhibiting an immune response. Liposomal Glutathione contains glutathione, an endogenous tripeptide involved in cellular antioxidative processes. Immune cells produce many free radicals during their work and use glutathione to protect themselves.
The second phase introduces additional nutritional components. The choice of these products is assessed individually, partly due to potential interactions with medication. The suitability of essential oils per species is also adjusted: Oregano Blend and Oregano Diffuser Blend are not for cats. Metabolic Balance combines NAC and berberine. NAC is a source of cysteine, while berberine is being studied for its interaction with various metabolic signaling processes, such as AMPK, the cell’s energy sensor. Berberine also comes into contact with the intestinal flora in the gut. Biofilm Balance contains digestive enzymes, NAC, and lactoferrin. The enzymes are involved in the breakdown of food components during digestion. Bacteria in the gut partly live in a biofilm, a layer they create themselves, and the enzymes and NAC are being studied in relation to that layer. Oregano Blend contains essential oils of oregano, thyme (ct. linalool), and lemon in MCT oil. Oregano contains carvacrol and this thyme primarily linalool, the substances that determine the spicy scent and flavor. Give it briefly with food, for a maximum of 7 consecutive days, for dogs only. Oregano Diffuser Blend is a pure oil for the diffuser containing oregano, thyme, cinnamon bark, clove, manuka, and ravintsara. Through the diffuser, the aromatic substances are released into the air of the room. Do not use it in a room where a cat is present.
The third phase combines nutritional components involved in normal metabolic processes and the nutritional composition of the intestinal environment. Longevity Support contains NAD+, resveratrol, astragalus, and ergothioneine. NAD+ is a coenzyme involved in various reactions within cellular energy metabolism. Activated immune cells consume significant amounts of NAD+. Liposomal Coenzyme Q10 contains coenzyme Q10, an endogenous substance that is part of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. It also acts as an antioxidant in cell walls. Liposomal Glutathione is continued from phase 1, depending on the individual program composition. Immune cells must constantly replenish their glutathione during their work. L-Glutamine contains glutamine, an amino acid used by intestinal epithelial cells, among others. Lymphocytes also use glutamine as fuel when they divide. Shilajit contains a complex mixture of organic and mineral components, including fulvic acid. The exact composition depends on origin and purification. Fulvic acid binds minerals and is studied in relation to their absorption in the gut. Prebiotic Fibers contain fermentable dietary fibers used as a food source by various gut bacteria. This produces short-chain fatty acids, which are studied in relation to regulatory T-cells in the intestinal wall—the immune cells that inhibit a response.
How do you use the program?
The Microbial Balance Program contains various nutritional components divided over three phases. The suitability of the products and daily amounts are tailored to the species, body weight, diet, and any medication. In case of existing conditions or use of medicines, consultation with the treating veterinarian is necessary. This program is not intended for the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of diseases and does not replace veterinary treatment.
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
Can I choose a phase separately?
Yes. The products and duration can be tailored to your animal’s individual nutritional needs. For each supplement, you will find the amount per weight.
Does this replace a treatment?
No. This program does not replace medication or treatment by a veterinarian.
Can this be used with medication?
Always consult the treating veterinarian. Products in phase 2, in particular, are assessed individually due to potential interactions with medication.
How long does the program take?
The three phases together last approximately 20 weeks.
Why the NGD Care Microbial 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.
- Covarrubias AJ, et al. (2021). NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology.
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.
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