FructooligosaccharidesFructooligosaccharides are often mistaken for probiotics themselves, but rather they are a carbohydrate that, due to their long digestion time, provide a good growth medium for beneficial bacteria(probiotics) in the gut. FOS supplements may be especially indicated for Boxers on full or near full, meat diets as meat does not provide the non-fermentable fibrous platform found in grains etc on which helpful bacteria grows. As helpful bacteria ferments FOS, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are released in the large intestines (acetate, propionate and butyrate)which in turn help regenerate the lining inside the intestines. The health benefits of a well-balance probiotic level include: strengthened immune systems, reduced pathogenic (bad) bacteria in the intestinal tract and better absorbion of folic acid and other nutrients. Too much FOS can lead to diarrhea. One source states that FOS should never excede 2% of the total food intake, and should be mixed into food and not administered seperately. Unfortunately, the best natural sources of FOS are onions and garlic, which are not recommended for dogs, so supplements may be required.
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