Why HyVitality?
HyVitality - Recommendations, Ingredients, Dosage, Precautions:
HyVitality has been formulated to support the health of dogs suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases. HyVitality's ingredients are selected for their impact on pathways that drive inflammation. These antioxidant, vitamin, mineral and plant derivatives help the body return to its most natural healthy state.
Chronic Inflammatory Disease
A very common problem. Chronic inflammation may lead to or be caused by many disorders of
various organ systems
including skin disease, bowel disorders,
arthritis, and cancer.
In Shar-Pei, background chronic inflammation may put some dogs at risk to develop reactive systemic amyloidosis. Amyloidosis can lead to early death from kidney and/or liver failure. Inflammation can be a silent killer!
Dogs with autoinflammatory disorders have inherited genetic errors that predispose the innate immune system to work improperly. This dysregulation leads to abnormally increased inflammation: pain, heat or fever, swelling, redness, and impaired function. Familial Shar-Pei Fever is an autoinflammatory periodic fever disorder. Excess hyaluronan production in Shar-Pei predisposes to autoinflammatory disease.
Secondary damage to the blood and lymphatic vessels that drain fluid from the inflamed hind limb can lead to abnormal swelling and fluid accumulation. Chronic "swollen hock syndrome" is caused by this mucinosis and/or lymphedema.
HyVitality contains the highest quality antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals selected for their scientifically described potential to help offset inflammatory damage.
HyVitality Ingredients
Active Ingredients Per Capsule (120 capsules in each bottle)
6.25 mcg Vitamin K2 (MK7), 40 mg Magnesium (as dimagnesium malate), 12.5 mg Alpha Lipoic Acid, 15 mg Coenzyme Q10, 250 mcg Vitamin B12 (as methylcolbalamin). Each capsule contains 237.5 mg of a proprietary blend of Boswellia Serrata, Curcumin, Diosvein™ (Diosmin EP) and Biotivia™ 100% Trans-Resveratrol.
Inactive Ingredients
Rice Flour, Magnesium Stearate, Gelatin Capsule.
HyVitality is manufactured in the U.S.A. in a state of the art GMP certified lab facility.
Suggested Dosage
Give capsules with small amount of food. When possible, divide total daily dosage into morning and evening portions without opening capsules. (HyVitality contains curcumin, a potent orange pigment that may stain hands, countertops and other in-contact surfaces if capsules are opened but is otherwise safe.)
7-15 lbs : 1 capsule daily
16-30 lbs : 2 capsules daily
31-45 lbs : 3 capsules daily
46-60 lbs : 4 capsules daily
61-80 lbs : 5 capsules daily
81-100 lbs : 6 capsules daily
Recommendations & Precautions
- A consultation and examination by a veterinarian is recommended prior to using this product. Safety for use in pregnant bitches, dogs used for breeding, or dogs under 6 months of age has not been proven.
- If dog’s condition worsens or does not improve, stop product administration and consult your veterinarian.
- Product should be used in diabetic dogs and dogs with advanced renal disease only under close veterinary supervision with careful monitoring. HyVitality Canine is not recommended for dogs in end-stage kidney failure because it contains magnesium. Dogs in kidney failure may have difficulty excreting magnesium and may have pre-existing hypermagnesemia.
- HyVitality may decrease the need for other anti-inflammatory medications. Do not stop prescribed medication abruptly without consultation with your veterinarian.
WARNING For Use in Dogs Only. Not recommended for dogs under 7 lbs. Do NOT administer to cats.
More About Our Ingredients
Alpha Lipoic Acid is an essential antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory compound. Alpha Lipoic Acid decreases inflammation by reducing the amounts of
pro-inflammatory mediators that are produced by cells lining blood and
lymphatic vessels and by white blood cells called monocyte-macrophages. Alpha
Lipoic Acid is an essential cofactor in several important mitochondrial energy
reactions and in nucleic acid synthesis. It stimulates glutathione synthesis,
the body’s essential cellular antioxidant. It maintains glutathione and
Vitamins C and E in their protective antioxidant forms. Reactive oxidative
species (ROS) trigger a pathway activating the inflammasome,
contributing to IL-1beta release, fever and inflammation. Antioxidants help
protect against ROS. Alpha Lipoic Acid facilitates glucose transport and is
useful in the support of patients with diabetes. Over-dosage may cause
hypoglycemia. It should never be given to cats.
Boswellia Serrata resin (Indian Frankincense) has been used for its anti-inflammatory benefits throughout written history. Recent scientific studies have identified many bioactive components extracted from Boswellia’s resin that have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, wound healing and antimicrobial activity. Its triterpenoids exert significant anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic activity, and other components, incensole acetate and its derivatives, have been shown to be anti-inflammatory NF-kappaB inhibitors and are neuroprotective. Boswellia has demonstrated anti-depressive and anti-anxiety effects and is gastric ulcer protective. Boswellia has been promoted as a 5-LOX (lipoxygenase) inhibitor, a key enzyme in leukotriene biosynthesis.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a necessary cofactor in the body’s mitochondrial energy factories. CoQ10 influences the expression of several hundred genes. It has been suggested that CoQ10 exerts anti-inflammatory properties via NF-kappaB1-dependent gene expression. It may protect against septic shock and the inflammatory cascade through its role as a powerful antioxidant. Animals that are ill are often low in this cofactor and levels decline with age.
Curcumin is a natural phytochemical obtained from the dried root and rhizome of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa). Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Curcumin has been shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including apoptosis (activation of caspases and downregulation of anti-apoptotic gene products), proliferation (HER-2, EGFR, and AP-1), angiogenesis (VEGF), and inflammation (NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-6, IL-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX). It has a protective effect against IL-1beta induced inflammation alone and synergistically when combined with Resveratrol. Curcumin blocks beta amyloid fibril formation and aggregation in Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin and the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA also act synergistically as combined potent anti-inflammatory antioxidant compounds. Curcumin has been shown to down-regulate IL-6 and is a potent inhibitor of STAT 3. STAT3 is a transcription factor through which the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 mediates its effects and is an important promoter of cancer. Experimental studies in animal models and preliminary trials in humans suggest that curcumin may have therapeutic value in treating inflammatory bowel disease. Curcumin also suppresses mast cell activation and has anti-histamine effects.
Diosmin is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside usually derived from citrus fruits that is structurally similar to luteolin and apigenin. It has been shown to be useful in the treatment of lymphangitis in humans. The micronized form of diosmin in HyVitality (Diosvein™) is more readily absorbed from the GI tract. Micronized diosmin has been shown in multiple studies to improve lymphatic drainage by promoting lymphatic contractions, by increasing the number of functional lymphatics, and by decreasing the diameter of lymphatic vessels and decreasing intra-lymphatic pressure. It decreases inflammation associated with vascular endothelial damage and reduces edema formation. Several key studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of diosmin are due to its inhibition of the synthesis and biological activities of different pro-inflammatory mediators such as arachidonic acid derivatives, prostaglandins E2 and F2 and thromboxane A2. Diosmin’s inhibition of these mediators blocks production of tissue-damaging reactive oxidative species (ROS) at sites of inflammation. It may inhibit amyloidogenic gamma-secretase cleavage of amyloid precursor protein. Diosmin has been shown to protect against DNA damage from irradiation and is considered anti-mutagenic.
Magnesium is provided by dimagnesium malate, a readily absorbed form of the mineral magnesium. Magnesium is required in over 300 biochemical actions in the body. Magnesium is a limiting nutrient for hyaluronan synthesis and is necessary to help stabilize hyaluronan in its healthy high molecular state in the pericellular matrix. Shar-Pei have been observed to be predisposed to have low serum levels that reflect severely depleted total body stores. Magnesium deficiency can lead to many problems including anxiety, tremors, bruxism, muscle cramps, personality changes and seizures. Low levels of available magnesium exacerbate the body’s stress response leading to increased inflammation. Magnesium deficiency in experimental animals leads to characteristic vasodilation and redness, an increase in IgE, an increase in the numbers of neutrophils and eosinophils, an increase in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, mast cell degranulation, histamine release, and splenomegaly. These signs are all similar to those seen in patients with atopy (allergic skin disease). Oral supplementation with magnesium has been shown to be significantly helpful in the prevention and treatment of mild to moderate asthma in people. Magnesium should not be given to dogs in end-stage kidney failure unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Excess oral magnesium may cause loose stools so dividing total daily dosage of HyVitality is recommended.
Methylcobalamin is one of the body’s natural forms of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency is closely linked to anemia, gastrointestinal and neurological disease. Vitamin B12 is potently active in the immune system via regulation of nitric oxide synthases: promoting a strong inflammatory response where needed and the means to resolve it. An intracellular form of cobalamin has been shown to react with superoxide at rates approaching those of the standard-setting superoxide dismutase itself. This suggests a probable mechanism by which Vitamin B12 protects against chronic inflammation as a powerful antioxidant. Shar-Pei often manifest with low-grade anemia and chronic intermittent diarrhea that has been associated with B12 deficiency. Treatment with colchicine may also deplete B12 levels and lead to increased need for supplementation. Methylcobalamin supplementation has also been shown to aid in myelin formation and the repair of nerve damage.
100% Biotivia™ brand Trans-Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that demonstrates anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, anti-oxidative and chemopreventive capabilities. Resveratrol has been shown to block the endotoxin-induced acute phase response cascade in rats. Resveratrol activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is a regulator of insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial biogenesis through its activation of AMPK and SIRT1/2. AMPK also directly inhibits HAS2 (the enzyme abnormally over-expressed in Shar-Pei) by phosphorylation of a Thr residue in HAS2, reducing its ability to make hyaluronan in endothelial smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. AMPK and SIRT1 levels fall after endotoxin exposure and resveratrol can counteract that decline. Resveratrol has proved beneficial in in-vitro and in-vivo models of Alzheimer's disease, reducing beta amyloid protein accumulation. Resveratrol was shown to be as effective as the corticosteroid dexamethasone in a mouse model of asthma. It may help prevent damage from oxidative stress in glaucoma. Resveratrol’s neuroprotective effects may be helpful in preserving cognitive function in older dogs. Resveratrol blocks IL-18 and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN). EMMPRIN is a potent inducer of malignant cell properties that functions, at least in part, through hyaluronan synthesis. Biotivia™ brand trans-reseveratrol was chosen for HyVitality because of its purity, potency and high bioavailability.
Vitamin K plays key roles in blood coagulation, bone metabolism and endothelial (blood vessel) function. Vitamin K2 (MK-7) is a very safe and well-absorbed form of this fat soluble vitamin. Antibiotic use may lead to Vitamin K deficiency by destroying good intestinal bacteria that produce Vitamin K. Studies in humans show that higher levels are protective against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease and studies in rats suggest that it may suppress both chronic and endotoxin induced inflammation. Vitamin K2 has been shown to inhibit the production of IL-6 by inflamed human fibroblasts. The synthetic Vitamin K3 (menadione) that is commonly added to pet food is inferior to the natural forms and, unlike Vitamin K1 and K2, Vitamin K3 may be toxic at high doses. The longer acting MK-7 form of Vitamin K2 used in HyVitality is significantly more expensive than K1 but is much more bioavailable and remains bioactive for a more prolonged period in the body.
Boswellia Serrata resin (Indian Frankincense) has been used for its anti-inflammatory benefits throughout written history. Recent scientific studies have identified many bioactive components extracted from Boswellia’s resin that have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, wound healing and antimicrobial activity. Its triterpenoids exert significant anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic activity, and other components, incensole acetate and its derivatives, have been shown to be anti-inflammatory NF-kappaB inhibitors and are neuroprotective. Boswellia has demonstrated anti-depressive and anti-anxiety effects and is gastric ulcer protective. Boswellia has been promoted as a 5-LOX (lipoxygenase) inhibitor, a key enzyme in leukotriene biosynthesis.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a necessary cofactor in the body’s mitochondrial energy factories. CoQ10 influences the expression of several hundred genes. It has been suggested that CoQ10 exerts anti-inflammatory properties via NF-kappaB1-dependent gene expression. It may protect against septic shock and the inflammatory cascade through its role as a powerful antioxidant. Animals that are ill are often low in this cofactor and levels decline with age.
Curcumin is a natural phytochemical obtained from the dried root and rhizome of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa). Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Curcumin has been shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including apoptosis (activation of caspases and downregulation of anti-apoptotic gene products), proliferation (HER-2, EGFR, and AP-1), angiogenesis (VEGF), and inflammation (NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-6, IL-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX). It has a protective effect against IL-1beta induced inflammation alone and synergistically when combined with Resveratrol. Curcumin blocks beta amyloid fibril formation and aggregation in Alzheimer’s disease. Curcumin and the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA also act synergistically as combined potent anti-inflammatory antioxidant compounds. Curcumin has been shown to down-regulate IL-6 and is a potent inhibitor of STAT 3. STAT3 is a transcription factor through which the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 mediates its effects and is an important promoter of cancer. Experimental studies in animal models and preliminary trials in humans suggest that curcumin may have therapeutic value in treating inflammatory bowel disease. Curcumin also suppresses mast cell activation and has anti-histamine effects.
Diosmin is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside usually derived from citrus fruits that is structurally similar to luteolin and apigenin. It has been shown to be useful in the treatment of lymphangitis in humans. The micronized form of diosmin in HyVitality (Diosvein™) is more readily absorbed from the GI tract. Micronized diosmin has been shown in multiple studies to improve lymphatic drainage by promoting lymphatic contractions, by increasing the number of functional lymphatics, and by decreasing the diameter of lymphatic vessels and decreasing intra-lymphatic pressure. It decreases inflammation associated with vascular endothelial damage and reduces edema formation. Several key studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of diosmin are due to its inhibition of the synthesis and biological activities of different pro-inflammatory mediators such as arachidonic acid derivatives, prostaglandins E2 and F2 and thromboxane A2. Diosmin’s inhibition of these mediators blocks production of tissue-damaging reactive oxidative species (ROS) at sites of inflammation. It may inhibit amyloidogenic gamma-secretase cleavage of amyloid precursor protein. Diosmin has been shown to protect against DNA damage from irradiation and is considered anti-mutagenic.
Magnesium is provided by dimagnesium malate, a readily absorbed form of the mineral magnesium. Magnesium is required in over 300 biochemical actions in the body. Magnesium is a limiting nutrient for hyaluronan synthesis and is necessary to help stabilize hyaluronan in its healthy high molecular state in the pericellular matrix. Shar-Pei have been observed to be predisposed to have low serum levels that reflect severely depleted total body stores. Magnesium deficiency can lead to many problems including anxiety, tremors, bruxism, muscle cramps, personality changes and seizures. Low levels of available magnesium exacerbate the body’s stress response leading to increased inflammation. Magnesium deficiency in experimental animals leads to characteristic vasodilation and redness, an increase in IgE, an increase in the numbers of neutrophils and eosinophils, an increase in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, mast cell degranulation, histamine release, and splenomegaly. These signs are all similar to those seen in patients with atopy (allergic skin disease). Oral supplementation with magnesium has been shown to be significantly helpful in the prevention and treatment of mild to moderate asthma in people. Magnesium should not be given to dogs in end-stage kidney failure unless prescribed by a veterinarian. Excess oral magnesium may cause loose stools so dividing total daily dosage of HyVitality is recommended.
Methylcobalamin is one of the body’s natural forms of Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency is closely linked to anemia, gastrointestinal and neurological disease. Vitamin B12 is potently active in the immune system via regulation of nitric oxide synthases: promoting a strong inflammatory response where needed and the means to resolve it. An intracellular form of cobalamin has been shown to react with superoxide at rates approaching those of the standard-setting superoxide dismutase itself. This suggests a probable mechanism by which Vitamin B12 protects against chronic inflammation as a powerful antioxidant. Shar-Pei often manifest with low-grade anemia and chronic intermittent diarrhea that has been associated with B12 deficiency. Treatment with colchicine may also deplete B12 levels and lead to increased need for supplementation. Methylcobalamin supplementation has also been shown to aid in myelin formation and the repair of nerve damage.
100% Biotivia™ brand Trans-Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol that demonstrates anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, immunomodulatory, anti-oxidative and chemopreventive capabilities. Resveratrol has been shown to block the endotoxin-induced acute phase response cascade in rats. Resveratrol activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is a regulator of insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial biogenesis through its activation of AMPK and SIRT1/2. AMPK also directly inhibits HAS2 (the enzyme abnormally over-expressed in Shar-Pei) by phosphorylation of a Thr residue in HAS2, reducing its ability to make hyaluronan in endothelial smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. AMPK and SIRT1 levels fall after endotoxin exposure and resveratrol can counteract that decline. Resveratrol has proved beneficial in in-vitro and in-vivo models of Alzheimer's disease, reducing beta amyloid protein accumulation. Resveratrol was shown to be as effective as the corticosteroid dexamethasone in a mouse model of asthma. It may help prevent damage from oxidative stress in glaucoma. Resveratrol’s neuroprotective effects may be helpful in preserving cognitive function in older dogs. Resveratrol blocks IL-18 and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN). EMMPRIN is a potent inducer of malignant cell properties that functions, at least in part, through hyaluronan synthesis. Biotivia™ brand trans-reseveratrol was chosen for HyVitality because of its purity, potency and high bioavailability.
Vitamin K plays key roles in blood coagulation, bone metabolism and endothelial (blood vessel) function. Vitamin K2 (MK-7) is a very safe and well-absorbed form of this fat soluble vitamin. Antibiotic use may lead to Vitamin K deficiency by destroying good intestinal bacteria that produce Vitamin K. Studies in humans show that higher levels are protective against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease and studies in rats suggest that it may suppress both chronic and endotoxin induced inflammation. Vitamin K2 has been shown to inhibit the production of IL-6 by inflamed human fibroblasts. The synthetic Vitamin K3 (menadione) that is commonly added to pet food is inferior to the natural forms and, unlike Vitamin K1 and K2, Vitamin K3 may be toxic at high doses. The longer acting MK-7 form of Vitamin K2 used in HyVitality is significantly more expensive than K1 but is much more bioavailable and remains bioactive for a more prolonged period in the body.