Immunokun MINI Chews 18 g

Inflammation generates a large amount of free radicals, which in turn accelerate the inflammatory process. Vitamin E is one of the most effective antioxidants to protect the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids that make up cell membranes. It prevents lipid oxidation by eliminating peroxyl radicals before they can react with fatty acids or proteins of adjacent cell membranes.

It is the most potent reducing agent available to cells. Vitamin C regenerates the enzyme glutathione, neutralizes free radicals both intra- and extracellularly, and protects against free radical-mediated protein inactivation associated with oxidative neutrophil rupture.

Maintains the function and integrity of the intestinal barrier at the level of tight junctions, thus preventing the entry of antigens, toxins, and pathogenic bacteria that cause inflammation.

Potato starch: Natural source of easily digestible carbohydrates that provides quick energy and enhances the texture and palatability of the supplement, ensuring better acceptance in dogs and cats.

It is a source of high-quality protein (40%) and palatability that also stands out for its high content of B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9, but not B12), macrominerals (phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium), microminerals (iron, zinc, copper, manganese, cobalt, molybdenum, chromium, and selenium), and antioxidants. For this reason, it helps improve the quality of the coat, skin, and nails, and promotes nervous system health. Additionally, the yeast cell walls contain mannan-oligosaccharides and beta-glucans that support intestinal health and strengthen the immune system. Some studies even suggest that brewer's yeast could act as a natural antiparasitic against fleas and ticks, although the results are not yet conclusive.

It is a source of soluble and insoluble fiber, which promotes gastrointestinal health, and antioxidants (flavonoids and vitamin C), which help prevent and slow down health problems such as cancer or brain aging. A balanced diet should contain fibers, as they help the proper functioning of the intestinal tract. The soluble fraction of apple pulp is mainly composed of pectin, which is beneficial for both constipation and diarrhea due to its high water retention capacity. In cases of constipation, it causes an increase in digesta volume, as well as promoting the proliferation of beneficial bacteria due to its high fermentability. As a result, levels of short-chain fatty acids increase, promoting intestinal health. In cases of diarrhea, this ability to absorb water quickly allows the digesta to thicken. However, although pectin can treat symptoms, it does not necessarily address the main cause of diarrhea. On the other hand, fiber can trap certain molecules within its matrix, such as ammonia/urea and cholesterol. These molecules are then transported through the colon and finally excreted in the feces, thus reducing their levels in the blood.

Lysine exhibits indirect antiviral properties against feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1). Cells infected with FHV-1 require arginine in the medium for viral replication. Lysine is not necessary for viral growth, but when present, it has a partially inhibitory effect on FHV-1 replication due to competitive inhibition of arginine. Supplementation with lysine in the early phase of infection reduces viral replication resulting in less severe conjunctivitis and respiratory process.

The nutritional needs of animals are modified by exercise. The amount of energy required for exercise depends on the total work performed and this is very variable for sporting animals that perform intermediate activity. Their energy needs range from 2 to 5 times their resting energy requirements, with athletes performing endurance activity requiring more than 5 times their resting energy needs. Due to its energy concentration, fat is an ideal nutrient to incorporate significantly into the diet of animals that engage in long-duration exercise. Additionally, medium-chain fatty acids (fatty acids with a length of 8 to 12 carbons) do not depend on L-carnitine for transport across the mitochondrial membrane, avoiding this limiting step in fatty acid oxidation.

It improves epithelial integrity since it is the preferred metabolic fuel of enterocytes, positively influencing cell proliferation, differentiation, and maturation (greater villi height and shallower crypt depth) and therefore facilitates nutrient absorption. Butyric acid also acts by reducing intestinal inflammation, through the reduction of oxidative damage to DNA and by inducing apoptosis in cells with DNA damage.

They modulate the production of eicosanoids, with the eicosanoids resulting from the metabolism of omega 3 fatty acids being less stimulatory of the inflammatory response than those resulting from omega 6 fatty acids. Additionally, omega 3 fatty acids are precursors of resolvins and protectins, substances that counter-regulate inflammation, serving as agonists of endogenous anti-inflammatory mechanisms and acting significantly in the resolution of inflammation.

Scientific evidence indicates that it helps to reduce inflammation, limit oxidative damage in cells and tissues, promote innate immunity activity (especially NK cells, important in defense against infections and abnormal cells) and regulate cell proliferation by promoting apoptosis in altered cells. Together, these mechanisms may help strengthen the body's defenses and support the overall health of dogs

HMB (β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate) is a metabolite derived from leucine that plays a key role in the maintenance of muscle mass and strength in dogs, especially during growth stages, intense activity, or aging. Various animal studies have shown that HMB helps to reduce muscle fiber degradation, promotes protein synthesis, and may contribute to a faster recovery after exercise or stressful situations. Additionally, being linked to leucine action, it participates in the production of enzymes and hormones that support energy metabolism and immune response, thus supporting the overall health of the dog.

It promotes proper nutrient absorption, which positively impacts immune function. Additionally, by providing quick-release energy, it helps maintain vitality and reduce the impact of metabolic stress in situations of illness or recovery. By not containing potentially irritating compounds, tapioca contributes to protecting the intestinal mucosa, a key element for a healthy immune barrier, thus supporting the body’s natural defense against external agents.

Carob is a fruit rich in soluble fiber, natural antioxidants, and mild tannins, which make it a functional ingredient in canine nutrition. Its polyphenol content helps to reduce oxidative stress and modulate the inflammatory response, two key processes for the proper functioning of the immune system. Additionally, carob fiber acts as a prebiotic, promoting the balance of the intestinal microbiota, which strengthens the digestive barrier, the first line of immune defense in dogs. Thanks to these properties, carob can contribute both to digestive well-being and to the strengthening of the body's natural defenses.

Flaxseed is a seed rich in omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), soluble and insoluble fiber, and lignans, compounds with potent antioxidant action. These nutrients help to modulate the inflammatory response, thereby strengthening the immune system's ability to fight infections and chronic conditions. The soluble fiber in flaxseed also acts as a prebiotic, promoting the balance of the intestinal microbiota, essential for maintaining good digestive health and an effective immune barrier. Thanks to this combination of properties, flaxseed not only contributes to intestinal well-being but also supports the optimal functioning of the natural defenses in dogs.