Dietary fibre is made up of two main types: soluble fibre & insoluble fibre. Foods that are rich in fibre {such as pumpkin} have both soluble & insoluble fibre components.
Soluble fibre dissolves in water & is processed through the colon. Soluble fibre is known to help with weight management as it lowers fat absorption. It also lowers cholesterol, stabilizes blood sugar levels, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, & promotes healthy gut bacteria.
Insoluble fibre differs in the fact that it does not dissolve in water. Insoluble fibre remains intact as the food moves through the gastrointestinal tract. Insoluble fibre is known to help the body feel full for longer, as well as lower the risk of numerous diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, & metabolic syndrome {just to name a few}.
As mentioned in my previous post, pumpkin is full of vitamins & incredible nutritional benefits. Let's take a look at how they are able to help your feline feel their best.
Vitamin A
Canned pumpkin is loaded with vitamin A which helps promote healthy eyes & vision.
Beta-Carotene
Additionally, pumpkin is full of beta-carotene, an antioxidant {responsible for neutralizing free radicals in the body}, which helps slow the aging process & may protect against certain types of cancer.
Vitamin C
Just like people, our little lion's can catch a cold when their immune system isn't its strongest. Vitamin C is a great way to boost immune health. Additionally, vitamin C is also an antioxidant which fights molecules that can trigger inflammation. It also helps protect joints in aging animals, as it prevents the breakdown of cartilage.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, a fat-soluble nutrient found in pumpkin, is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells against free-radical damage.
Essential Fatty Acids
Finally, pumpkin is full of essential fatty acids which are key players in promoting healthy skin & a silky, beautiful coat. If your little lion is suffering from environmental allergies causing their skin to be itchy & irritated, try pumpkin!