In small amounts,
can be a good dog food ingredient as it is rich in iron and calcium and is also high in fibre. Pea flour also contains a high proportion of protein and is sometimes used in higher proportions as a protein supplement.
The FDA is not currently advising pet owners to stop using any particular brand. But studying legumes may lead scientists to the root cause.
A recent study is one step closer to identifying which ingredients are connected to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious and frequently fatal condition that eventually results in congestive heart failure, especially in medium to large breed dogs.
According to research funded by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a common vegetable called peas may be the source of the potential issue. Tufts University’s latest study identified the legume as a potential contributing factor, according to Linda Carroll of NBC News.
For a comparison study, researchers looked at dog foods that had previously been linked to DCM and other foods. Peas and lentils, also referred to as pulses, which are added to different dog foods, were among the more than 800 different substances that were examined in the study. The study found that “peas showed the greatest association” with DCM-related compounds.
The study’s author, Lisa Freeman, a veterinary nutritionist at Tufts University, tells NBC News, “I see this as a piece of the puzzle.” This research helps us focus on the most likely causes, arrive at an answer more quickly, and guard against affecting other dogs by helping us narrow down the targets to examine. ”.
DCM is “the second most common heart disease affecting pet dogs, with prevalence over 50% in some breeds,” according to the study. In some breeds with a genetic predisposition to the illness, such as boxers, Great Danes, Doberman pinschers, and cocker spaniels, it can result in congestive heart failure or “sudden death.” According to Maya Yang of the Guardian, additional research demonstrates that nonhereditary forms can result from other factors, such as current medical conditions and diet.
Peas and lentils are frequently used as filler in various dog foods, including grain-free ones, according to the research. Although the Tufts study suggests that vegetables may contribute to DCM, the FDA does not currently have any plans to forbid their use in dog food.
Legumes and pulses have been used in pet foods for a long time, but the agency claims there is “no evidence to indicate they are inherently dangerous.” ”.
The brands tested for the study were kept a secret by both the FDA and the researchers. Additionally, they do not advise pet owners to stop feeding peas to their dogs.
Freeman tells NBC News, “We want to be cautious of all the ingredients the FDA is looking into until we know the exact cause. Peas might be a good indicator of where we should look. Unfortunately, this only adds another piece to the puzzle and does not provide the solution. But it gives us things to follow up on. ”.
So what can pet owners do? Brian Bourquin of Boston Veterinary Clinic advises Meghan Ottolini of the Boston Herald to choose major brands that are more likely to have a nutritionist on staff.
He says, “We want to see foods that have been researched, and that usually means the larger food companies.” “Those are the ones we trust the most. ” Recommended Videos Most Popular.
Why are legumes harmful to dogs?
Some legumes can be harmful to your dog, while others are safe for them. When peas, beans, lentils, and other legume seeds are the main ingredients in pet food, it can make dogs develop dilated cardiomyopathy.
Legumes are rich in protein and fiber. So, they can act as an indigestible grain. Dogs with digestive issues should not consume legume seeds. The protein in legumes can also interfere with the body’s ability to absorb other nutrients.
Are peas and legumes bad for your dog’s health?
Your dog’s heart size can be increased by pea protein and other pet food components like beans, lentils, and legume seeds. Some dogs may also be allergic to peas.
Peas are also inappropriate for dogs with kidney issues. Peas produce uric acid because they are purines and purines, and too much uric acid can harm the kidneys.
Dogs who consume legume seeds like beans may experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, and excessive gas.
Is pea protein the same as pea flour?
2. Myth: Pea protein and pea flour or ground peas are interchangeable terms. The truth is that pea protein differs from split pea flour. It is not nutritionally equivalent to eating yellow peas because the majority of the starch and fiber content is removed to make pea protein concentrate.
Due to its abundant amylase content, pea starch is frequently used as a thickening agent and to create gel-like mixtures. The majority of pea starches are also regarded as being very healthy because they provide nutritional advantages like gluten- and lactose-free products.
FAQ
What ingredients should I avoid in dog food?
- BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)
- BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)
- Ethoxyquin.
- Nitrates/Nitrites.
- Propyl Gallate.
- Carrageenan.
- MSG.
- Sodium Hexametaphosphate.
Is pea in dog food safe?
Peas were at the top of the list of ingredients that may be linked to this type of canine heart disease, according to a study of more than 800 compounds.