4Health Original Formula Review

Other Ingredients

The sixth ingredient in this formula is egg product. We do not know if this form is wet or dry, and quality can vary significantly. However, eggs are often referred to as nature’s most perfect protein source and is also a great source of fat and vitamin E for dogs.

The next ingredient is millet, a small-seeded grass grain and a healthy source of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Millets are much more easily digested than wheat, and is also hypoallergenic and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Dogs with thyroid issues should avoid food with millet due to its ability to suppress thyroid activity.

Next, we come upon the first two questionable ingredients in this formula, canola oil and tomato pomace.

Canola oil is derived from rapeseed, and has been marketed as the “heart healthy” because it is low in saturated fats, high in unsaturated fats, and has the optimal 2:1 ratio of omega-6/omega-3 fatty acids.

However, 90% of the world’s canola crop has been shown to be genetically modified. Also, the processing method for canola oil is highly unnatural and results in harmful trans fats, which cause diseases like fibrotic lesions of the heart.

Tomato pomace is an inexpensive by-product of tomato manufacturing, consisting of the pulp, skin, and seeds. It is a great source of soluble fiber, maintains a healthy digestive tract, contains high levels of vitamins and minerals, and slows digestion, thereby increasing mineral absorption.

However, some people scorn tomato pomace as a low-quality filler that has no nutritional value for dogs.

Next is natural flavor, which is a natural flavoring additive. It can come from various plant or animal sources but does not contribute to nutrition.

The 11th ingredient on this list is flaxseed. It is one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. Flaxseed is a popular dog food ingredient because its nutrient-rich profile can benefit dogs’ skin and coat.

There is some concern that flaxseed is not good for reproduction, but no dog-specific studies have been done.

Salt is a common additive in dog food as it is a necessary mineral for all animals.

Next, we have choline chloride, a source of the essential B vitamin choline. It is essential for liver function, proper brain development, nerve function, muscle movement, and other processes in your dog’s body.

Choline chloride is often added to dry dog food because potatoes and grains have low levels of choline. However, some people have expressed concern that choline chloride is unstable and can react with other supplements.

This formula uses a lot of pre- and probiotics, such as:

• dried chicory root
• dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus fermentation product
• dried Bifidobacterium Animalis fermentation product
• and dried Lactobacillus Reuteri fermentation product.

Pre- and probiotics can help your dog’s digestion and modulate the immune system.

Glucosamine hydrochloride and Chondroitin sulfate are also added to this food to aid in joint health. The sources of these ingredients are unknown, and benefits are also inconclusive.

But to be realistic, these ingredients are so far down the list that they are unlikely to have much benefit.

Dried kelp is often added for its trace minerals like iodine, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Then we have carrots, apples, tomatoes, blueberries, spinach, and cranberries, all of which are nutrient-rich and high in fiber.

After these, we have rosemary extract, an often-used antioxidant and preservative. Rosemary can cause problems if your dog has epilepsy or seizures.

Parsley flakes are not only good for your dog’s breath, but did you know that it can also help with arthritis, urinary tract infections, and cancer? This nutritional powerhouse also contains large amounts of vitamins and minerals.

This food also contains Yucca Schidigera extract, which can help reduce your dog’s stool odor. Yucca also has anti-inflammatory properties.

L-Carnitine is also added to this product. This amino acid nutritional supplement plays an important role in fat metabolism and can help with recovery in working dogs.

From here on, the list includes a number of other items, mainly additional vitamins and minerals.

Listed ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Potatoes, Peas, Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Millet, Canola Oil, Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salt, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Dried Kelp, Carrots, Apples, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Spinach, Cranberries, Rosemary Extract, Parsley Flake, Yucca Schidigera Extract, L-Carnitine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Reuteri Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganous Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D Supplement, Folic Acid.