Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress and help cells to keep their viability.
As a dog’s body can not produce all antioxidants itself, and they must be obtained from the food they eat. Such antioxidants are for example vitamins C and E, and minerals selenium, copper and zinc.
The threat of free radicals
When body uses oxygen, harmful reactive oxygen species are formed as a byproduct. Free radicals are one example of those. Cells are continually under attack from compounds called 'free radicals'. Generated as a 'by-product' of the body's own metabolism or as a result of external factors like pollution, free radicals can kill cells by damaging the membrane, the enzymes and the DNA contained within. Free radicals pose a particular risk to the cells of the nervous and immune systems, and they are even thought to contribute to the progression of many diseases and the onset of premature ageing.
How antioxidants help
Antioxidants help prevent the free radicals from damaging cells. Whilst the body's normal antioxidant defences provide some protection, the addition of antioxidants to the diet provides an additional 'active shield' that supports those natural defences.
Clinically proven antioxidants
Hill's Science Plan foods contain a unique combination of antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, beta-carotene and selenium, and that superior antioxidant formula has been clinically proven to help maintain your pet's health, reduce the risk of disease and strengthen the immune response.
Protecting puppies and kittens
Because puppies and kittens are particularly at risk from free radicals, Hill's Science Plan Healthy Development formulas contain antioxidants clinically proven to help build healthy immune systems right from the start.
In co-operation with Hill’s Pet Nutrition
