Prescription for Optimum Pet Health

Health is a major issue for many people, but that concern doesn't always carry over to pet care. Over the last few decades we have seen what seems to be a steady decline in the general health and vitality of our pets, primarily cats and dogs. They are no longer living a "natural" existence with us. Instead, we are subjecting them to a world filled with artificial nourishment, surroundings and light - even their playthings and breeding are unnatural. Yet we expect them to survive, thrive and adapt with no difficulty. In addition, we have bred them in a conscious effort to alter their appearance and attributes according to whim not always merit with no regard for the eventual outcome. The old saw "survival of the fittest" has gone out the window. As a result, many of these animals, have become genetic misfits with such a myriad of defects that they cannot exist in a normal state. Even cross-bred animals with their so-called "hybrid vigor" can and do suffer from a variety of disorders.

Today's technology allows us instant access to the latest, greatest health products available both for man and beast. Certainly one would think we could bask in the assurance that we are providing our beloved pets with the best, most wholesome existence on earth. But is this really true? Are we actually contributing to their premature aging and unwittingly exposing them to severe life-threatening health problems? Aren't they reacting more and more unfavorably to the ill effects of "modern living"? Considering the rate at which they are falling victim to and subsequently succumbing to diseases, it certainly would seem so.

If this sounds a bit maudlin, think about the bombardment daily from the news media regarding our own health hazards. We hear constantly about chemical pollution in the air and water, toxic wastes, dangers from eating ordinary foods, smoking, drinking, drugs and even just the stress of living in the fast lane. Pets are exposed to most of the same hazards, but generally owners don't recognize this as relevant.

A veterinarian's first response to all these problems generally is to prescribe antibiotics and steroids (cortisone). Rarely does the pet owner get the benefit of any other treatment until that approach has been tried, often proving ineffective. In the meantime, the poor animal has suffered through a prolonged period of inadequate, even detrimental therapy simply delaying correct treatment. The irony is that in animals with seemingly healthy adrenal glands, steroids which are given to reduce the symptoms of inflammation, pain and swelling (frequently the effects of immune deficiencies), actually suppress the immune response still further. They simply mask symptoms that appear to improve an animal's condition temporarily thus convincing the pet owner that the animal has gotten better. In these instances, once treatment has ended, the condition resurfaces to start the cycle all over, often with more severe symptoms. Dr. Alfred Plechner, DVM in his book Pet Allergies, Remedies for an Epidemic, has discovered instances of cortisol insufficiencies in genetically damaged adrenals where the administration of cortisone replaces the missing natural cortisol and the animal then responds favorably.¹ Rarely do veterinarians test for cortisol deficiency however, before prescribing cortisone.

Adrenal cortex deficiencies (hormonal imbalances), most commonly hypothyroidism, result in either a suppressed immune system with too few antibodies for protection or an auto-immune breakdown. With the latter, there is an overproduction of an animal's own antibodies which then are no longer able to distinguish foreign invaders and instead destroy healthy tissue within the body. This manifests itself in allergic reactions (such as hair loss, itching, inflammation), digestive ailments, cancer, bone defects, eye and ear infections, reproductive disorders, liver and kidney disease and even behavior problems (aggression, nervousness, lethargy and obsessive syndromes).² Is it any wonder then that debilitating conditions become the norm?

Antibiotics have saved many lives, but they have become so over prescribed and misused (in humans as well) that we are now facing a crisis in antibiotic utilization seeing "super bugs" that are dangerously resistant to the strongest therapies. Antibiotics not only destroy the bacteria they are intended for but also "the good guys", friendly beneficial bacteria. When this happens, the body often ends up with an overgrowth of yeast and other harmful bacteria, even parasites, that find a foothold and drag down our pet's defenses still further. Yet all too often we are only sent home from the vet with another antibiotic to wreak more havoc on poor Fido or Tiger's already depressed system.

We cannot afford to remain complacent and must get away from the notion of treating symptomatically and deal with the issue preventatively instead. This is a concept that the American public may find foreign since modern philosophy operates on the premise that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". We hear of preventive medicine, but what does it really mean and how can we effectively apply it to pet health? Dr. Wendell O. Belfield in his book, How to Have a Healthier Dog, quotes Hippocrates, the father of medicine, as telling his students 2,500 years ago, "Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food." The ancient Chinese paid their physicians to keep them healthy but did not pay if they became ill.³ Of primary importance is nutrition. Webster's dictionary defines nutrition as "...the series of processes by which an organism takes in and assimilates food for promoting growth and replacing worn or injured tissues; The science or study of proper balanced diet to promote health."⁴ Providing proper nutrition boosts the immune system thus reducing and even eliminating these problems. Most people have some idea of what a balanced diet is for humans, but what about our pets? They too need to digest everything and that requires a combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, fatty acids, amino acids, friendly bacteria, digestive juices and a healthy, properly functioning system to accomplish it. So, you say, we should be able to get it from pet foods since they are supposed to be scientifically formulated to provide everything our dog or cat needs. Right? Wrong!!!

Pet food manufacturers make grand pronouncements as to the incredible health benefits your pet will receive if you feed their "new, improved, nutritionally complete and balanced" products. TV and magazine ads hyping these "foods" simply do not tell the real story. Claims that their testing laboratories and years of research mandate superior food performance have great attraction for the average consumer. A large portion of that research actually deals with "curb appeal" - the effect that package design, content wording and even the colors of both food and container has in luring a customer to purchase that food. Pet food, with sales amounting to five billion dollars a year, is the most profitable aisle in the supermarket.⁵ The bottom line is that sales volume far outstrips true nutritional value in determining what a pet food dealer chooses to sell. Even a veterinarian's only emphasis on nutrition has been to prescribe diets of commercial pet foods that they sell and profit from. Dr. Plechner, states that "more than 30% of the ailments I treat in my practice are directly related to food."⁶ That is an extremely conservative statement at best!

Condemned parts and animals that are rejected for human consumption are commonly used in commercial pet foods. Animals referred to in the trade as the 4-D's - Dead, Dying, Diseased and Disabled - are used also.⁷ A recent talk show brought to light the regular practice of feeding the pulverized remains of dead livestock back as their own feed. Viruses, bacteria, growth hormones, chemicals, steroids, antibiotics, toxins and heavy metals present in these remains are ingested and become compounded as well. Even dead pets from veterinary clinics and zoo animals are utilized. Then, in an effort to destroy the viruses, bacteria, etc., the pet food is processed at extremely high temperatures that it is questionable any so-called nutrition remains. Little wonder that animals become reactive to this so-called "food."

So what can we do? Understanding our pet's real needs is the first step. To the average person, it may appear to be a complicated process, but there are some basic steps to be taken that will put your pet on the road to wellness. The categories are listed in a progressive order. So for each category you incorporate, the more likely you are to achieve a balanced and healthful state of nutrition in your dog or cat. What must be stressed is that the interaction of all these components is absolutely essential and each contributes to proper functioning of the entire body.

Canned and dry pet food:
Pet food is listed first only because it comprises the basis of most feeding programs. At least replace super market, semi-moist, generic or "breeder brands" that are preserved with Ethoxyquin, BHA or BHT with ones preserved naturally with Vitamin C and/or E. Preservative-free would be best, but due to the short shelf life, these kibbles are obviously impractical and not cost effective, and therefore seldom stocked. When purchasing dry kibble, check to see that it is fresh and not rancid (from sitting on the dealer's shelf for many months). Be aware that your pet may still be allergic to the meat and/or grain in the food, so use common sense in selecting a brand and opt for hypoallergenic if possible. Read the label and observe your pet's reaction to the food. It often takes 3-4 weeks for an animal to become reactive to a food, so don't be surprised if it doesn't show an intolerance for a month or so. An Elisa test can pinpoint the allergen(s) if an allergic reaction arises.

Low protein levels have been suggested in recent years as a means to prevent kidney disorders when it is actually the quality of protein and its utilization which is really at issue. Pet food protein often includes such unsavory indigestibles as beaks, feathers, claws and hair, gristle, lungs, pig feet, snouts, tails, cheeks and condemned hog livers.⁸ Many of these come under the heading of Byproducts. Note: A urinalysis can determine if protein is being broken down correctly. If not, Dr. H. H. Robertson gives magnesium to cause the desired release of non-protein nitrogen in the body which means it will help the animal's body release undigested protein. He says the enzymes pepsin and trypsin are particularly important here. Dr. Robertson believes that a major cause of heart problems in cats and dogs is the improper breakdown of protein.⁹

Raw Food:
This category would be listed first except that most people are unable (or unwilling) to provide what has to be considered a far more natural diet. Animals in the wild eat only raw food (no pot and fire to cook that rabbit or mouse). Raw foods contain all the nutrients that cooking and refinement take out. Adding small bits of raw meat, vegetables, grains such as sprouts or oatmeal and even fruit (all from natural sources) improves the quality of the diet immensely. These can be fed as treats also. Bones that don't splinter such as knuckle and femur (thigh) bones are good when your pet can tolerate beef. Table scraps, which pet food manufacturers discourage, actually enrich the meal provided they do not consist of discarded fat, gristle or rich, greasy gravies. Some raw foods may not readily break down uncooked, so light steaming will result in better digestibility but do not overcook. Introduce raw foods slowly so the animal can adjust and don't be alarmed if there is a cleansing reaction which releases toxins within the body that can cause some disturbances such as diarrhea, vomiting, increased urination and decreased activity. These responses are normal and will usually disappear within a few days to be replaced by increased vitality and a much happier pet.¹⁰

Vitamins and Minerals:
A good quality multi-vitamin and mineral supplement specifically formulated for your type of pet is essential. Check to see that it is from natural sources and fresh, with no artificial preservatives, dyes, additives, yeast or fillers so as not to create an allergic response. Those containing antioxidant formulas with Vitamin A (as Beta Carotene), C (in the form of Ester C®), E (naturally occurring d-alpha tocopherol is preferred), selenium (a trace mineral that is synergistic - working with - and enhancing the effect of E) and zinc (an energy catalyst that's usually deficient in most diets) are vital in neutralizing free radicals which disrupt the immune system and lead to disease and premature aging. The author strongly recommends additional Vitamin C (oft called the King of Vitamins), as it very effectively generates interferon to fight infection, builds collagen, aids in the formation of bones and tissues, helps prevent cancer and arthritis, protects against heavy metal toxicity, reduces the side effects from steroids and acts as an analgesic (pain reliever) to name just a few of its many powers. High on the list of mineral sources in this category is seameal, (dry, pulverized seaweed) which contains iodine and a combination of trace minerals with vitamins and minerals. These have far greater value than from plant and animal sources raised on our nutritionally depleted soil. Also research indicates that liquid and chelated minerals as well are most readily assimilated into the body.

Enzymes:
Enzymes are organic catalysts which regulate most of the biochemical reactions in the body. The body can produce hundreds of its own for both digestion and detoxification. Without enzymes, an animal would die. When the body is immune suppressed, its enzyme producing ability is impaired. Food and foreign substances which aren't broken down by enzymes and digested properly cause damage as large molecules that are toxic and greatly weaken the system. Raw food possesses its own enzymes, but cooking (temperatures over 118°) kill 100% of the enzymes. Pet food then is enzymeless forcing our pets to draw from their own enzyme stores to digest their meals. Glands and major organs, including the brain suffer most. The pancreas swells in size to meet the demand for its digestive juices while the brain shrinks and other glands abnormally adapt on the all-cooked and over-refined diet.¹¹ Francis Pottenger, M.D., carried out a 10-year experiment using 900 cats which were placed on controlled diets. The cats on raw food produced healthy kittens from generation to generation. Those on cooked food developed our modern ailments: heart, kidney and thyroid disease, pneumonia, paralysis, loss of teeth, difficulty in labor, diminished or perverted sexual interest, diarrhea, irritability. Liver impairment on cooked protein was progressive, the bile in the stool becoming so toxic that even weeds refused to grow in soil fertilized by the cats' excrement. The first generation of kittens were sick and abnormal; the second generation were often born dead or diseased; by the third generation, the mother was sterile.¹²

Over a lifetime, an animal's enzyme producing capability decreases. If it is forced to produce an abnormal amount of enzymes, its ability will diminish too rapidly and supplements will become necessary. Thus, providing a basic enzyme supplement usually in the form of amylase (for carbohydrates), lipase (for fats) and protease (for proteins) greatly assists the body in digestion. This can be of great value in older animals. Combinations with vitamins and minerals and friendly bacteria such as lactobacillus, can be of tremendous benefit also. SOD (Super Oxide Dismutase) is an excellent antioxidant enzyme which the body can produce, but it is readily depleted when the body is stressed. It has proven very beneficial to pets, as it effectively destroys harmful free radicals that contribute to degenerative diseases such as hip dysplasia and OCD.

EFA (Essential Fatty Acids):
These are polyunsaturated fats, Linoleic acid (LA) and Alpha-Linoleic acid (LNA) which are both necessary for the functioning of all cells, tissues and organs. Commercial pet foods generally contain too little (because they are unstable and tend to go rancid) or they use non-essential fats such as corn oil (these are more stable and do not go rancid as rapidly). Those they do use, are refined and non-organic and usually only one, LA or LNA, but not both. Fish oils can be used but flax seed is the richest source of LNA. Sunflower and sesame seeds are excellent sources of LA. Full EFA metabolism requires 27 other essential nutrients so a balanced diet is a must. To support health, oils should be unrefined and pesticide-free, pressed from organically grown seeds.¹³ In Pat Lazarus' book, Keep Your Pet Healthy The Natural Way, Dr. Robertson, a nutritionally oriented vet, states that he believes "These (EFA's) are the most critical nutrients that we have to deal with today; it is absolutely essential that pets get adequate amounts of these nutrients." If the animal is getting the proper proportion of fresh, whole grains, he's probably getting adequate essential fatty acids.¹⁴ So how many of our pets are getting fresh, whole grains?

Acidophilus:
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is called the "friendly bacteria." It is the most common of several that help break down complex nutrients in the gut and fight the "bad" bacteria, thus serving as a natural antibiotic. Chances are your pet has at one time or another had at least one antibiotic treatment. Not only were the bad bacteria destroyed, but so were the "good guys", thus disrupting the normal functioning of the intestines. In cases of continued antibiotic treatment, the animal's system frequently falls victim to an overgrowth of the yeast Candida Albicans. When its population in the gastrointestinal tract multiplies suddenly, it changes from a yeast-like form to a fungal one, with long root like structures that penetrate the mucous lining of the gastrointestinal wall, allowing substances usually confined to the GI tract to "leak" into the bloodstream. Incompletely digested protein from food which enters the bloodstream can cause the immune system to produce antibodies, resulting in severe allergic reactions. Some 60 serious health problems have been related to candidiasis.¹⁵ Live culture yogurt from non-pasteurized milk is a delicious, beneficial way to get acidophilus into your pet, otherwise a good quality, refrigerated multi-bacillus capsule or granule is recommended.

Amino Acids:
Until recently, little importance has been given to the need for amino acid supplementation. There are approximately 20 - both essential amino acids (those which can't be made by the body) and the dietary non-essential amino acids (those which the body can produce). Protein is made up of amino acids; some fifty thousand proteins being recognized in the human body, whereas fats and carbohydrates occur in only a few forms. Since three quarters of all solid matter in the body is protein, without it there would be no life. All enzymes, most hormones and every cell in the body is made up of protein. Each of those fifty thousand proteins must be custom built for each body. For each protein the body needs, the amino acids are bonded together in specific chains called peptides. Protein molecules may contain thousands of amino acids, but in different sequences. When the body is out of balance in any way through illness, injury, stress, genetic faults, lack of exercise, pollution, drugs etc., it cannot produce all the proteins necessary for normal metabolism. Nutritional deficiencies occur which cause a cascading domino effect throughout the system. Supplementation of free form amino acids can be given either for specific disorders (for skin, digestion, heart, emotions, cancer, etc.) or a complete blend commercially prepared for broad coverage to boost metabolism as a whole. Adding aminos to the diet - together with important vitamins and mineral cofactors (which the body often needs to help the conversion process of the metabolic pathways) can cure these problems.¹⁶

Water:
The most important nutrient for the body. Cool, fresh water is a must, but tap water unless properly filtered, is not a good choice as it frequently contains lead, arsenic, copper, cadmium, chlorine and fluorine. Tropical fish fanciers never use fresh tap water unless it's treated first for their fish because of the high chlorine and flouride content, so why should it be okay for other pets? Dean Burk, Ph.D. has stated that "Our data in the United States indicate in my view that one-tenth of all (human) cancer deaths in this country can be shown to be linked to fluoridation of public drinking water." This is the same water our pets are drinking, not to mention the fact that we're drinking it also! Distilled water is safe, but lacks many important trace minerals found in spring water and is thought to be linked to heart ailments.¹⁷ Spring water is generally an alternative as long as the source isn't contaminated. Check first. Filtered spring water would be even better. Be sure to use glass (preferably) or stainless steel bowls (but not aluminum or pottery bowls which may contain lead) to avoid the leaching of toxic metals into the water.

Herbs:
Animals in the wild medicate themselves with herbs and various plants knowing instinctively which ones they need. Generally herbs are far cheaper than veterinary drugs (one reason why veterinarians generally shun them) and far safer. Herbs are specific in their healing abilities, so familiarizing yourself with the properties of each can greatly assist in treatment of your pet. For instance, echinacea and garlic (the latter is best in the form of Kyolic) have tremendous ability to fight infection by promoting the production of interferon to name only one aspect of their powers. Milk thistle is a great detoxifier and aid for the liver. (A simple, effective liver/kidney toner/detoxifier for dogs is a tsp. of fresh organic lemon juice and a tsp. of cold pressed organic olive oil daily). Licorice root has been used for over a thousand years as an anti-inflammatory, primarily attributable to glycyrrhizin, a compound whose structure is similar to the cortico-steroids naturally released by the body's adrenal glands. Many other herbs are beneficial in boosting the immune system and eliminating toxins. There are many informative books available to assist anyone interested in learning more about their benefits.

Blue/Green Algae:
Best known of the more than 1500 species are probably Spirulina and Chlorella (the latter technically a green algae) both of which are nutritionally invaluable and may well prove to be "the food of the future". Blue/Green Algae research indicates they are both an exceptional source of nutrition containing a very impressive array of vitamins, minerals and 19 amino acids. Spirulina protein is superior to animal protein with 85% digestability compared to 20% for beef for example. Feeding your pet a lowered protein intake has been touted time and again. An animal's body will be satisfied with less protein in this manner reducing it's craving for animal protein, thus protecting the kidneys and helping to alleviate the severe liver damage that can occur from malnutrition and/or the consumption of foods, drugs or pollutants. The Algae potentiates the immune system with its anti-tumor, anti-viral properties, protecting against free radical damage, promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation in such diseases as arthritis, helps to stimulate the metabolism and balance the RNA/DNA (nucleic acids which aid in cell renewal and reverse aging). As a natural food supplement, Blue/Green Algae is a wonder food with the uncommon ability to photosynthesize the sun thus creating reactions with chlorophyll to inhibit the growth of bad bacteria in infections, deodorize and sanitize the body against bad breath and toxic colon and help decrease tooth decay and gum disease when used orally. Blue/Green Algae exhibit impressive immune stimulating capabilites by promoting interferon thus stimulating killer T-Cell (macrophage) production.¹⁸

Wheat Grass and Barley Grass:
These are considered complete foods, containing every vitamin and all known mineral elements. They have an abundance of many powerful enzymes and are exceptional in their ability as body cleansers, rebuilders and neutralizers of toxins. The protein contained in young grass is more easily assimilated because of its small size, thus facilitating its conversion in the body. Wheat and barley grass have high levels of chlorophyll. Grass juice contains large amounts of SOD. It is one of the only sources outside of liver powder to contain enough to remove superoxides and repair damaged cells, thus aiding in the recovery of disease.¹⁹ The Japanese claim that daily consumption of the juice helps reverse the aging process. The grasses have the ability to transfer nutrients, including oxygen, directly into the bloodstream.²⁰ There are now a number of companies selling wheat and barley grasses specifically formulated for pets.

It is well to note that countless other nutritional supplements exist if one wishes to investigate further, but the heretofore mentioned list can provide a good start as a solid base of support for obtaining optimum health. Good health food providers often have knowledgeable personnel that can aid you in the selection of appropriate supplements.

Finally, having dealt with the nutritional aspect of pet health, we must be aware of one more category that we'll refer to as Other Essential Factors. These include the following:

Stress Reduction:
Stress alone can undo all attempts to utilize this program. It is a major factor in achieving well-ness as much as well-being. The body reacts so strongly and with such devastating effects, that unless stresses are removed from the program or at best minimized, results will fall short of expectations. Stress may actually have been the trigger for your pet's illness. Such stresses as poor diet, immunizations (frequently produce many disorders and even life-threatening reactions), parasites (fleas, worms, etc.), over confinement and owner separations are major contributing factors. Coupled with bad breeding practices, the stage is set for disaster.

Exercise:
Our pets suffer just as humans do from illnesses related to a sedentary lifestyle. Some daily activity is essential, allowing freedom to move about in a natural manner. Inactivity leads to poor muscle tone, obesity, heart ailments, bone disorders and often results in emotional problems and behavior quirks. Animals subjected to overcrowding and confinement in cages for prolonged periods, often their entire lives (as in typical puppy mill practices), develop a great variety of maladies both physical and emotional, which are passed on to their offspring.

Affection and Love:
These are perhaps the most essential elements in the non-nutrition category, though one can consider it nutrition for the soul. Our pets can thrive only in an environment of love and caring. Without love, all creatures wither and die. Love for our animal(s) works both ways. When we show our pets affection in the form of gentle words, caressing hands and simply our acceptance of them, they respond in kind and blossom. This relationship contributes to a measure of well-being for us also. Caring for our pets is a self appointed role and as their keepers, we have a responsibility to make their lives as healthy and happy as possible. They deserve no less.

It is hoped that this list will serve as a guide to greater vitality and longevity for your pet. The information is meant only as a brief overview. Many of the references quoted from are excellent sources of information on diet and natural pet care readily available. We are fortunate to be seeing a resurgence of interest and respect for natural therapies. This appeal is enhanced by a broader understanding of present day concepts. Much of this information goes beyond the scope of modern science for individuals of vision who seek the greater good.

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REFERENCES

1. Alfred J. Plechner, DVM and Martin Zucker, "Pet Allergies: Remedies for an Epidemic", Very Healthy Enterprises (Inglewood, CA) 1986, p.65.
2. Ibid., p.65.
3. Wendell O. Belfield, DVM and Martin Zucker, "How to Have a Healthier Dog" Signet Books, Doubleday and Co. (New York) 1981, p.11.
4. William Collins + World Publishing Co., Inc. "Webster's New World Dictionary,". p.978.
5. Alfred J. Plechner, DVM and Martin Zucker, "Pet Allergies: Remedies for an Epidemic", Very Healthy Enterprises (Inglewood, CA) 1986, p.11.
6. Ibid., p.11.
7. Wendell O. Belfield, DVM and Martin Zucker, "How to Have a Healthier Dog" Signet Books, Doubleday and Co. (New York) 1981, p.25.
8. Alfred J. Plechner, DVM and Martin Zucker, "Pet Allergies: Remedies for an Epidemic", Very Healthy Enterprises (Inglewood, CA) 1986, p.12.
9. Pat Lazurus, "Keep Your Pet Healthy the Natural Way", Keats Publishing Inc., (New Canaan, CT) 1988, p.149-150.
10. Diane Stein, "Natural Healing for Dogs & Cats", The Crossing Press, (Freedom, CA) 1993, p.54.
11. Edward Howell, MD, "Enzyme Nutrition, The Food Enzyme Concept", Avery Publishing Group, Inc. (Wayne, NJ), 1985, p.78.
12. Humbert Santiillo BS, MH, "Food Enzymes, The Missing Link to Radiant Health", Hohm Press, (Prescott, AZ) 1991, 34-35.
13. Udo Erasmus, Ph.D., "Healing Fats for Animals (And Us), Natural Pet Magazine, Pet Publications, Inc. (Trilby, FL) Sept./Oct. 1995, p.36.
14. Pat Lazurus, "Keep Your Pet Healthy the Natural Way", Keats Publishing Inc., (New Canaan, CT) 1988, p.24.
15. William H. Lee, R. Ph., Ph.D., "The Friendly Bacteria", Keats Publishing Inc. (New Canaan, CT) 1988, p.14.
16. Robert Erdmann, Ph.D and Meirion Jones, "The Amino Revolution", Simon & Schuster, Inc., Fireside Edition (New York, NY), 1989, pgs.6-17.
17. Pat Lazurus, "Keep Your Pet Healthy the Natural Way", Keats Publishing Inc., (New Canaan, CT) 1988, p.28.
18. Rita Elkins, "Blue/Green Algae: Spirulina & Chlorella", Woodland Publishing Co. (Pleasant Grove, UT) 1995, p.4.
19. Leonard Jacobs, "The New Green Revolution", Menage, The East-West Journal, January 1981.
20. Steve Meyerowitz, "Wheatgrass, Nature's Finest Medicine", The Sprout House, (Barrington, MA) 1991, p.7.