Marc Smith, DVM, draws from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy when addressing a dog with stomach issues. His approach is to optimize the individual’s qi (life force) by balancing the internal energies of yin (cold) and yang (heat). According to TCM, all foods have properties that either warm the body, cool the body or are neutral, says Smith.
Most acute gastrointestinal problems relate to excess yang, or heat, so we want to treat them with cooling yin foods
Source: Dogster, April 1, 2019. Link. Smith’s TCVM food remedies seek to address your dog’s acute upset stomach and get his qi back in balance as quickly as possible:
- Fasting
- Cooling proteins
- Millet versus rice
- White potato
- Banana
- Applesauce
- Peppermint leaves
In cases of a chronic illness or when symptoms persist for more than a couple of days, veterinary evaluation is essential to determine the proper treatment protocol, says Dr. Smith.
INSIGHTS: The discussion of cooling proteins, millet and white potato makes this article worthwhile for veterinary team education and as a resource, especially considering the increase in telemedicine calls.