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Dear Local Minnesota Restaurants, Please Do Better At Reporting Allergies
Life sucks sometimes. Today is one of those days. I was fine, just doing my job at the radio station in Minnesota and then I could feel the tingle creeping. For me, it is always on my tongue first. (I'll give you a glimpse of what my tongue looks like during a reaction below.)
I Hate Food Allergies With A PassionFor all who have to carry an EpiPen, deal with hives, stomach issues, headaches, swelling, and all the other issues related to allergies, I know we all wish we could have a day where we just didn't have to worry. I dream of the day when all humans show compassion rather than saying we are "making it up". Victory would feel like a day with a smorgasbord of food options rather than selective eating habits, which aren't really habits but more of a way we need to survive.
Why Are There So Many Food Recalls Due to Mislabeling of Products?I'm writing this because while people know the word "allergy", those who are trying to survive with them aren't always seen. Companies continue to have labeling mistakes which lead to embarrassing recalls for them. But for me and you, those "mistakes" could be a serious medical emergency. When we turn a product over to look at labels, we should have confidence that we are being told the truth. Unfortunately, I'm finding that those "labels" are missing in some local locations where we are also getting food.
Local Restaurants, Please Step It Up For Those Of Us Suffering From Food AllergiesRestaurants - you frustrate me. Chain restaurants usually have most ingredients listed if I look hard enough on their websites. Not everything is always there but it is a start. Local places though, I've given up. I can guess what might have soy as I'm ordering in person or online, or I could ask, but many servers can't find where this is located or have given me false answers. Example: please don't tell me your salad dressing doesn't have soy in it if you aren't 100% sure. My tongue will alert me in about 15 minutes if it does...Or I could be violently ill in your bathroom.
I know you have tough jobs and you are short-staffed, but I will at times just not eat when others are because I am simply tired of having to ask for a list of items that have soy in them. Local restaurants, please just step it up and make sure you have these listed on your menu both in person and online. You could even put a QR code on the table or the menu that goes to a special "food allergy" menu. THAT would be amazing.
This isn't a specific city issue, this is a state issue. Maybe it is even a federal issue due to rules and regulations. No idea. But to prove my point, I just looked at 5 local Rochester, Minnesota restaurant menus online and can't find allergy info other than gluten for any of them. Nothing is listed on the website about soy but, I know you are serving food with it because I've had reactions from food at all of these locations.
What Does A Soy Allergy Reaction Look Like?I'll explain it but it is probably going to be a better visual for you if you can see it. I'll show that in a second but, here are a few of the symptoms of a soy allergy:
I've had 10 of those symptoms today...All because something I ate had soy in it. Or, according to UCSFhealth.Com, the soy could have been in lotion, soap, or even medicine. It doesn't always have to be in food.
Hi, My Name is Jessica Williams, and I am Having a Soy Allergy Reaction Right Now. Want to See it?Right now, my tongue is swollen, very sensitive, and hopefully at the peak of the reaction. But here's a glimpse at what it looks like:
Last week, I had another reaction. This was me in the bathroom at work checking to see how bad it was. Overall, that day was fine. It was just my tongue that was getting the brunt of the pain.
Jessica Williams
Jessica Williams What Can We Do To Fix This For All Who Suffer From Food Allergies?How do we help all who are suffering from food allergies so we stay safe when eating at restaurants? Maybe I need to chat with our lawmakers or city leaders. If you've got ideas though, pass those along to me at jessica.Williams@townsquaremedia.Com. AND, if you've got a menu online that shows all allergy information and you aren't part of a chain restaurant, please tell me who you are so I can eat at your place safely.
It's your BIG day and although you may not always want to celebrate adding another number to your age, there are several places in Minnesota that want to celebrate YOU! Check out the list and start making a plan to visit all of these on your next birthday.
Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio
Why Does The Keto Diet Cause A Skin Rash?
Medically reviewed by Jamie Johnson, RDN
Keto rash, or prurigo pigmentosa, is a rare inflammatory skin problem. Also called Nagashima disease, the keto rash causes an itchy rash with vesicles (fluid-filled blisters). It often appears on your neck and trunk. The blisters change and crust into darker-pigmented spots that form a netlike pattern.
The keto rash is often linked to the ketogenic (keto) diet or health conditions that produce ketosis. In this state, your body uses stored fat rather than glucose for energy. The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan. It is most often recommended to treat people with epilepsy that is hard to control.
Treatments for the keto rash include home cures like increasing carbohydrate intake and making up for vitamin deficiencies. Antibiotics and other drugs are often useful when these treatments don't work.
This article explains all you need to know about the keto rash, its causes, treatments, and ways to prevent it.
What Does the Keto Rash Look Like?The appearance of a keto rash can vary based on your skin tone and texture. Most case reports are in people in Asia and the Middle East, with some reports in White or Hispanic people. Descriptions of the rash in people of darker skin tones are lacking.
The condition includes the following characteristics:
Inflamed, itchy, red papules (small, well-defined skin bumps) or vesicles
Symmetrical distribution of spots on your trunk and neck
Occasional appearance of spots on your face, scalp, and suprapubic region (lower abdomen and groin)
Rare involvement of mucous membranes, hair, and nails
Formation of a netlike pattern of dark spots as the inflammatory phase of the rash ends and the bumps scale and crust
While a keto rash can affect anyone, it is most common among people of Asian descent. It affects women twice as often as men, though it may be due to a higher prevalence of dieting behaviors among women than men.
A keto rash typically occurs 31 days after starting a keto diet. For most people, the rash subsides about 18 days after ending the keto diet.
A Note on Gender and Sex TerminologyVerywell Health acknowledges that sex and gender are related concepts, but they are not the same. To reflect our sources accurately, this article uses terms like "female," "male," "woman," and "man" as the sources use them.
What Causes a Keto Rash?The exact cause of a keto rash is not known. The rash is named as a result of its link to the ketogenic diet.
A ketogenic diet involves limiting protein and carbohydrates, so most of your energy is produced from fat. The lack of carbohydrates in the diet triggers a state of ketosis, in which your body derives energy from the breakdown of fat. Ketosis can also be triggered by fasting, insulin-dependent diabetes, or bariatric surgery.
There is growing evidence that the connection between the keto rash and ketogenesis may involve the gut microbiome (the microorganisms in your digestive tract). An imbalance in the gut microbiome triggered by ketogenesis may impact a person's immune response, leading to a keto rash.
In addition to ketosis, the following potential triggers for the condition have been identified:
Learn More: This Is What May Be Causing Your Fruity Breath
How to Treat the Keto RashThe best way to treat a keto rash varies by individual. Contact a healthcare provider regarding the onset of a keto rash or any rash that persists and worsens. Some of the following strategies may provide relief or even resolve symptoms.
Reintroduce CarbohydratesYou may be able to treat a keto rash by reintroducing carbohydrates without returning to average carbohydrate intake levels. This may help you maintain the benefits of a keto diet without the side effect of a keto rash.
Research indicates that modifying carbohydrate intake with guidance from a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) trained in ketogenic therapies can help achieve lower prescribed carbohydrate levels. There is evidence that maintaining these defined carbohydrate levels can reduce the keto rash without sacrificing ketogenesis.
Correct Nutrient DeficienciesRemoving entire food groups from your diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Research indicates that certain nutrient deficiencies manifest as skin disorders.
Consuming a low-carbohydrate diet like the keto diet increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies due to a lack of nutrients from vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. As a result, low-carb diets are often insufficient in the following nutrients:
Eliminate Food AllergensFollowing a keto diet involves increasing your intake of fats to meet the high-fat requirement. Unfortunately, keto-friendly foods such as eggs, dairy, fish, and nuts, which meet this criteria, are among the most common food allergens.
If you have a specific food allergy, consuming the allergen can trigger or worsen a rash. It is important to have the allergy diagnosed and then avoid the specific food allergen.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, the following eight types of foods account for 90% of all adverse food reactions:
Eggs
Milk and dairy
Peanuts
Tree nuts
Fish
Shellfish
Wheat
Soy
Sesame
Depending on your level of sensitivity, a food allergy can trigger life-threatening effects. Get immediate medical help if you have any of the following signs of a food allergy:
Vomiting and/or stomach cramps
Hives
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Repetitive cough
Shock or circulatory collapse (interruption of blood circulation)
Tight, hoarse throat; trouble swallowing
Swollen tongue, affecting your ability to breathe or talk
Weak pulse
Pale or blue skin color
Dizziness or feeling faint
Anaphylaxis (a life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing and send your body into shock; possibly with multiple allergic symptoms)
There is some evidence that certain nutritional supplements may help reduce inflammation in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). While the research is inconclusive and warrants further investigation, symptom improvement of skin disorders has been linked to the following nutrients:
Take Care of Your SkinTo care for skin affected by a keto rash, follow these general guidelines to protect the affected area and relieve symptoms of inflammation and itching:
Avoid scrubbing your skin when bathing or scratching to relieve itching.
Use fragrance-free and dye-free gentle cleansers.
Discontinue the use of cosmetic lotions or ointments.
When bathing, use warm (not hot) water and avoid scrubbing with a washcloth or loofah.
Pat dry, don't rub your skin after bathing.
Allow the affected area to remain exposed to the air whenever possible.
Add colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath to relieve itching.
Try the following topical treatments: moisturizers, calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream (1%)
Learn More: High Ketones in Urine
Discuss Medications With a Healthcare ProviderDepending on your symptoms and the extent of your rash, your healthcare provider may recommend medications to treat your keto rash.
Research indicates that oral and/or topical prescription medications can resolve a keto rash within 18 days when combined with discontinuation of the ketogenic diet. A commonly used treatment is oral doxycycline, ranging from 100 to 200 milligrams daily for two weeks to two months.
Your healthcare provider can determine the best medication for your condition, which may include the following:
Learn More: Avoid These Foods to Help Treat Prurigo Pigmentosa
How to Prevent a Keto RashAny drastic dietary change can trigger side effects. Reducing your carbohydrate intake to a very low level very quickly is likely to increase your risk of developing a keto rash.
While there is no definitive way to prevent a keto rash since its cause is unknown, you may be able to reduce your risk of having the condition by taking the following measures:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting a ketogenic diet to develop a plan of action that involves a safe, slow transition into a new eating plan.
Don't ignore any rash symptoms, no matter how minor. Try increasing your carbohydrate intake at the first sign of a rash to prevent symptoms from becoming worse. If the ketogenic diet has been prescribed for epilepsy, discuss the rash and any recommended dietary changes to relieve it with a healthcare provider.
Consult a healthcare provider to discuss the types of vitamins and minerals needed to balance a keto diet to avoid deficiencies.
Stay hydrated by drinking as much water as possible and limiting caffeinated beverages.
The keto rash is a blister-like rash often linked to the keto diet or other causes of ketosis. Ketosis is the state in which your body uses fat rather than glucose for fuel.
The keto diet is mainly used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. However, it has also been used for weight loss and diabetes management.
Your risk of having a keto rash or other symptoms may increase as your body adjusts to a keto diet. While it may have healthful uses, the keto diet is a very strict eating plan. It is best started with the oversight of a healthcare provider.
Contact your healthcare provider if you are following a keto diet and notice any signs of a skin rash or other irritation. While a rash can be linked to the keto diet, it can also be a sign of health conditions that require treatment.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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Best Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs, According To Experts
It's never fun to see our furry friends not feeling their best. Like humans, dogs can have sensitivities to certain ingredients, react to changes in diet or catch a bug that causes tummy troubles. Problems related to sensitive stomachs can manifest in various ways and have a range of causes, so it's always best to confer with your vet. But if you need to change up your pup's food, the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs can help them get back on their feet and feel their best.
Causes and symptoms of sensitive stomachs in dogsThe most obvious symptoms of a sensitive stomach in a dog are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and bloating. However, stomach sensitivity can also manifest in the form of itching and other skin problems, along with weight loss. These symptoms can arise from a variety of issues, though, which can make pinning down the problem a challenge. There are some common causes to be aware of, which can help you start to narrow down the issue.
Change in dietFirst, dogs can experience sensitive stomachs when their diet suddenly changes. Switching to a new food can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and bloating. That's because abrupt changes or the "introduction of new foods can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to digestive upset," explains Dr. Andrea Johnston, a board-certified small animal veterinary internist and medical board member at The Vets. So, when switching to a new food, "gradually transition your dog over several days to minimize the risk of digestive upset," Johnston recommends.
AllergiesFood intolerances or allergies can also cause tummy trouble, usually manifesting as itching, digestive issues or skin problems. Like us, "dogs can develop allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in their diet, such as grains, proteins or additives," explains Johnston. If your pup has sensitivities, you may need to find a specific dog food for allergies.
IllnessOf course, some illnesses can cause stomach issues in pups as well. For example, pancreatitis, or "inflammation of the pancreas, can result in a sensitive stomach in dogs. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, loss of appetite and vomiting," explains Dr. Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian with a doctorate in veterinary mMedicine from St. George University and co-founder of How To Pets. Bacterial or parasitic infections, such as Giardia, gastroenteritis and a number of different types of worms, can also cause stomach sensitivity with a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, weight loss and a pot-bellied appearance.
AnxietyFinally, anxiety, changes in routine or environmental stressors can play a role. "Just like humans, dogs can experience stress or anxiety, which can affect their stomach," says Ochoa. "Symptoms may include decreased appetite, vomiting and loose stools."
What to consider when choosing dog food for sensitive stomachs Protein sourceProtein is incredibly important for dogs, as it's "essential for muscle development and overall health," explains Ochoa. "Look for options with real meat as the primary protein source, rather than meat by-products." However, some dogs develop sensitivities to certain proteins, so you may need to try different proteins to find the right one. Johnston suggests trying novel protein sources such as duck, venison or rabbit if your pup has sensitivities to chicken or beef.
Number of ingredientsThe number of ingredients in dog food, like human food, can indicate food quality, which could be essential when dealing with a sensitive stomach. Plus, fewer ingredients means fewer options that could cause problems with a sensitive tummy. "Opt for dog food with limited ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering stomach sensitivities," says Ochoa. "Look for options with simple and easily digestible proteins like chicken or lamb. Avoid foods with artificial additives or fillers." Choosing dog foods with fewer ingredients can also be helpful if you're attempting to identify particular ingredients that could be the culprit for stomach issues.
Probiotics and prebioticsProbiotics and prebiotics can help support a healthy digestive system in dogs. "These beneficial bacteria can help regulate gut flora and improve digestion, reducing the likelihood of stomach upset," explains Ochoa. Some food will come with probiotics and prebiotics added directly into the food, or you can purchase it separately to add on as needed.
Grain-free optionsSome dogs with sensitive stomachs could benefit from grain-free food. That's because "grain-free dog food is often easier to digest and can help alleviate stomach issues," explains Ochoa. "However, make sure the grain-free option still provides essential nutrients like fiber and carbohydrates from other sources."
While eliminating certain ingredients may be necessary to relieve stomach upsets, you still need to consider important nutrients when selecting the right dog food for sensitive stomachs. Ochoa suggests looking for easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or peas instead of complex carbs like grains and gluten.
Veterinary guidanceA sensitive stomach can signal a bigger issue and pinning down the exact cause can be tricky. Even when you find the problem, finding the right dog food for sensitive stomachs can be overwhelming, with so many options out there. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns and if symptoms of a sensitive stomach last for more than a few days.
Our top picks for the best dog food for sensitive stomachs Best dog food for sensitive stomach and diarrhea: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & SkinBest for sensitive stomach and diarrhea
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
A diarrhea attack from a dog's sensitive stomach is miserable for everyone, so choose foods carefully for pups. Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin uses "easily digestible ingredients and prebiotic fiber, so it's a go-to for diarrhea-prone dogs," says Ochoa. The digestible formula also "helps support optimal nutrient absorption," says Dr. Katy Nelson, senior veterinarian at Chewy. It features real chicken first, giving you confidence that your pup is getting quality protein. As a bonus, "the recipe also delivers a generous source of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat," Nelson explains.
Specifications:This Hill's Science Diet food uses easily digestible ingredients and a prebiotic fiber to help with diarrhea from a sensitive stomach.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Best dry dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & StomachBest dry dog food for sensitive stomachs
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult with Probiotics Lamb & Oat Meal Formula High Protein Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is a great dry dog food for sensitive stomachs in part because it's available in three different protein options. You can choose between salmon, lamb or turkey, allowing you to find a formula that works best for your dog's gut and taste buds. All flavors are made with quality, easily digestible ingredients. They are free of wheat, soy and artificial flavors that can cause upset, and feature antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
Specifications:Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is available in three different protein options and in puppy, adult or large breed formulas.
Get it here: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Best dog food for puppies with sensitive stomachs: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog FoodBest for puppies with sensitive stomachs
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin dog food for sensitive stomachs is formulated specifically for puppies. It's ideal for both long-term and short-term digestive sensitivities and can be rehydrated to help puppies transition from milk to solid food. In terms of ingredients, it has "enhanced omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, and a fiber blend to help support digestive health. It also includes selected prebiotics to help support a healthy gastrointestinal microbiome," explains Nelson.
Specifications:This Royal Canin puppy food features easily digestible ingredients, probiotics to support a healthy microbiome and a fiber blend to help with sensitive tummies.
Get it here: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food
Best dog food for sensitive stomach and vomiting: Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog FoodBest for sensitive stomach and vomiting
Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food
A long list of ingredients can open up opportunities for reactions. Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts frozen food features a relatively short ingredient list, so there's less of a chance for something to irritate your dog's stomach and cause vomiting. Chicken is the first ingredient, followed by easily digestible items like sweet potatoes, oats and cranberries. The natural ingredients will also be easier to digest, which is ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies.
Specifications:Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts is a frozen food made of simple, easy-to-digest ingredients with plenty of protein.
Get it here: Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food
Best wet dog food for sensitive stomachs: Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Wet FoodBest wet dog food for sensitive stomachs
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Dog Food, 12.5-oz, 12ct
Wet food can be a must for dogs who struggle chewing, or if you want to encourage hydration because of the higher moisture content. This Wellness canned food features turkey and turkey broth as the first ingredients, with no additional fillers or animal byproducts. It also uses easily digestible carbohydrates, which help to provide a soothing mealtime experience. It's grain-free and promotes optimal energy levels along with a healthy coat to keep your pup at their best.
Specifications:This Wellness canned food uses simple, straightforward ingredients that are easily digestible while promoting hydration.
Get it here: Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Wet Food
Best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs: Canidae Pure Senior RecipeBest senior dog food for sensitive stomachs
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Chicken, Sweet Potato & Garbanzo Bean Recipe Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
Canidae dog food for sensitive stomachs is tailored for older dogs to keep your senior pup going strong. It includes probiotics for better digestion and is made with simple, easily digestible ingredients. They claim that antioxidants help boost the immune system, while glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy joints. It's made without corn, wheat or soy and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, a must for sensitive stomachs.
Specifications:The Canidae Pure Senior recipe uses ingredients tailored for older dogs to keep them at their best while being easy to digest.
Get it here: Canidae Pure Senior Recipe
Best canned dog food for sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog FoodBest canned dog food for sensitive stomachs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog Food, 12.8-oz, case of 24
If your pup prefers wet food, Hill's Science Diet option is a great wet dog food for sensitive stomachs. "This grain-free recipe is formulated to help support optimal digestive and skin health and contains natural fibers for improved stool pickup," says Nelson. It also features omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin and coats, promoting overall wellness.
Specifications:Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach canned food is easy to digest and uses natural fibers to promote better stool pickup.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for sensitive stomachs: Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient FormulaBest grain-free dog food for sensitive stomachs
Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Formula
If your dog is sensitive to grains it can be hard to find food options, but Taste of the Wild Prey dog food is fully grain-free. Lentils are the second ingredient and the only source of carbohydrates in this food, limiting any potential for upset stomach due to grains. Additionally, probiotics aid digestion, while minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, omega fatty acids and DHA all promote overall wellness and complete nutrition.
Specifications:With a quality protein source, probiotics and no grains, Taste of the Wild Prey is a fantastic choice for grain-sensitive dogs.
Get it here: Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Formula
Best dog food for large breeds with sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog FoodBest dog food for large breeds with sensitive stomachs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
Hill's Science Diet dog food is made specifically for large breeds with sensitive stomachs. It's a larger kibble than most, which is ideal for larger pups. The food features prebiotics, whole-grain oats and pumpkin to "support regular and healthy stools and aid in cultivating a healthy microbiome and overall digestive well-being," says Nelson. Plus, it uses real, high-quality chicken as the primary ingredient, so you can trust you are getting a quality protein source for your dog.
Specifications:Hill's Science Diet food offers a larger kibble size and plenty of gut-friendly ingredients for larger dogs.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food
Best fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs: Nom Nom Fresh Pet FoodBest fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs
Nom Nom Freshly-Made Frozen Grain-Free Beef Mash Dog Food, 14-oz pouch, case of 7
For picky eaters, fresh food may be the only way to entice a dog to eat their meals. Nom Nom is a fantastic fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs because it uses "whole, restaurant-quality ingredients," explains Ochoa. It works for all life stages and is available in four different protein flavors to keep your dog interested. Nom Nom individually cooks all ingredients gently to lock in nutrients and then mixes them in small batches. It ships food within six months of being made, so you know it's fresh when it arrives.
Specifications:Nom Nom makes all its whole-ingredient food in small batches and ships it within six months to keep it fresh.
Get it here: Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food
Best soft dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in GravyBest soft dog food for sensitive stomachs
Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
Purina One SmartBlend Tender Cuts is more than just a wet food — it includes soft chunks of real meat to entice your dog. There are no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors and zero fillers of any kind, so there's a lower chance that something will irritate your dog's sensitive stomach. "Soft and easy to eat, this wet food combines antioxidants and omega fatty acids for overall health and is gentle on sensitive stomachs," says Ochoa.
Specifications:With soft chunks of meat and an enticing gravy, this Purina ONE food is easy to eat and digest.
Get it here: Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
How we selected the best dog food for sensitive stomachsDog health is extremely important to me, so I relied on the expert advice of veterinarians when selecting the best dog food for sensitive stomachs. Since a range of factors can cause sensitive stomachs, I aimed to include various food types with a mix of different ingredients to meet the needs of many dogs. Finally, I chose foods for different life stages, so whether you have a brand new puppy or a dog up there in years, you can find a recommendation here.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) How do I know if my dog has a sensitive stomach?Unfortunately, identifying a sensitive stomach in a dog can be challenging. "If you're always on the watch for how your pup's stools are looking, avoiding giving them certain foods or searching for the 'perfect' diet to settle their tummy, you likely have a dog with a sensitive stomach," says Nelson.
The most obvious signs of a sensitive stomach are vomiting and diarrhea. Of course, it's not unusual for dogs to have occasional vomiting or diarrhea, but "frequent occurrences suggest a problem," explains Johnston.
It's also important to keep an eye on the frequency and consistency of your dog's bowel movements. Changes in bowel movements can indicate a problem and "soft or watery stools, blood in the stool or mucus may indicate digestive issues," says Johnston. Flatulence is also something to watch (or rather, listen and smell) for. Occasional gas is normal, while "excessive flatulence can indicate digestive discomfort," says Johnston. If your dog has foul-smelling gas frequently, it may be a sign of a sensitive stomach.
Ochoa and Johnston also explain that a loss of appetite could signal stomach issues like sensitivity. If your dog is reluctant to eat, that's a red flag. "Conversely, some dogs may exhibit increased hunger due to poor absorption of nutrients," says Johnston. In the same vein, Johnston explains that digestive issues can lead to weight fluctuations. "If your dog is losing weight unexpectedly, it could be related to their digestive health," she says.
Stomach sensitivity can result in abdominal discomfort. To check for this, touch your dog's abdomen. If they show signs of discomfort when you touch or press on their abdomen, that could be an indicator that they have a sensitive stomach. Likewise, whining, pacing or restlessness can also be signs of abdominal discomfort.
Though it may seem counterintuitive, a dull coat or skin irritations can also be signs of a sensitive stomach. Pay attention to any changes to your dog's skin and coat, as "dogs with sensitive stomachs may often have skin issues like itchiness, redness or a dull coat," explains Ochoa.
Finally, keep an eye out for any behavioral changes. Unfortunately, dogs can't tell us what's wrong, and their discomfort may come through in unexpected ways. "Dogs with digestive discomfort may display changes in behavior such as lethargy, irritability or reluctance to engage in activities they normally enjoy," says Johnston. If your pup is acting differently than normal, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
What are some common ingredients to avoid in dog food for sensitive stomachs?If you already know that your dog's stomach is sensitive, there are some ingredients that you can avoid to prevent flare-ups. Alternatively, if you're trying an elimination diet to determine the cause of stomach upset, the following ingredients may be worth avoiding.
First, for some dogs, high-fat foods can cause problems. "While dogs need fat for energy, excessive fat intake can lead to digestive issues, particularly in dogs with pancreatitis," explains Johnston. She recommends avoiding dog foods that contain high levels of fat, such as those with animal fats or certain oils.
The second ingredient to avoid may sound familiar: dairy. "Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme necessary to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk," says Johnston. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, avoid foods with any dairy products, and skip the cheese and yogurt.
Artificial sweeteners and additives can cause gastrointestinal distress as well. "Ingredients like artificial colors, flavors and preservatives can be tough on a sensitive stomach," says Ochoa. Likewise, "artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs and can cause digestive problems," explains Johnston. If you're looking for dog food for sensitive stomachs, be sure to avoid any of those fillers and sweeteners. And if you give human food to your furry friend, check the ingredients to ensure that it's free of artificial ingredients, especially sweeteners, as well.
Finally, grains with gluten are best avoided if your dog has a sensitive tummy. "Grains like wheat, corn and soy that contain gluten can be difficult for some dogs to digest," Ochoa says. "Look for grain-free or gluten-free options to support your dog's sensitive stomach."
Can dogs develop sensitivities to food over time?Dogs can develop sensitivities to food over time, so if your pup's long-time food isn't agreeing with them, don't fret. There are many reasons for this, including simply age. "Just like humans, dogs' digestive systems can change as they age. What once suited their stomachs perfectly might now cause irritation or an allergic reaction," explains Ochoa.
Repeated exposure to food can also cause dogs to develop sensitivities. "Their immune system may start to recognize certain ingredients as foreign or harmful, triggering a response upon consumption," says Ochoa. That's especially true of dog foods that contain common allergens like wheat, corn, soy and artificial additives. "Over time, continuous exposure to these ingredients can result in sensitivities that manifest as digestive problems or skin issues in your furry friend," she says. Certain breeds are also predisposed to food allergies and sensitivities, which means they may be more likely to develop reactions to specific ingredients over time.
Is wet or dry food better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?Each dog and situation is different, so wet or dry food isn't inherently better for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Wet food can be easier to digest and chew because of its softer texture, making it a common option for sensitive stomachs. It also features a higher moisture content, helping to keep your dog hydrated. That extra hydration is key if your dog doesn't drink much on its own or if it has symptoms that could lead to dehydration.
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