As with many superfoods, much of the evidence for their benefits comes from research in humans. However, canine cognitive decline shares several characteristics with human Alzheimer’s disease [1-3].
Lemon balm, a key ingredient in Calm-K9 Senior Boost, has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce agitation associated with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline in humans [4,5]. Studies have also indicated that lemon balm can enhance cognitive performance and mood in healthy, young individuals [6].
Calm-K9 Senior Boost contains a blend of antioxidants and B-vitamins that have demonstrated cognition-enhancing effects [7,8]. Additionally, phosphatidyl choline supports neurological health by reinforcing cell structure and aiding in the production of neurotransmitters [9].
This formula also includes L-tryptophan and probiotics, which contribute further to gut and cognitive health. Details on these ingredients can be found in the Calm-K9 product description.
References:
Head, E; McCleary, R; Hahn, FF; Milgram, NW; Cotman, CW. Region-specific age at onset of beta-amyloid in dogs. Neurobiol Aging. 2000. 21:89–96.
Landsberg, GM; Nichol, J; Araujo, JA. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome: A disease of canine and feline brain aging. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2012. 42:749–768.
Osella, MC; Re, G; Odore, R; Girardi, C; Badino, P; Barbero, R; Bergamasco, L. Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome: Prevalence, clinical signs and treatment with a neuroprotective nutraceutical. Appl Anim Behav Sci. 2007. 105:297–310.
Fast, R; Schutt, T; Toft, N; Moller, A; Berendt, M. An Observational Study with Long-Term Follow-Up of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction: Clinical Characteristics, Survival, and Risk Factors. J Vet Intern Med. 2013. 27:822-829.
Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, Ohadinia S, Jamshidi AH, Khani M. Melissa officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: a double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2003 Jul 1;74(7):863-6.
Scholey A, Gibbs A, Neale C, Perry N, Ossoukhova A, Bilog V, Kras M, Scholz C, Sass M, Buchwald-Werner S. Anti-stress effects of lemon balm-containing foods. Nutrients. 2014 Nov;6(11):4805-21.
Pan Y, Kennedy AD, Jönsson TJ, Milgram NW. Cognitive enhancement in old dogs from dietary supplementation with a nutrient blend containing arginine, antioxidants, B vitamins and fish oil. Br J Nutr. 2018 Feb;119(3):349-58.
Pan Y, Landsberg G, Mougeot I, Kelly S, Xu H, Bhatnagar S, Gardner CL, Milgram NW. Efficacy of a therapeutic diet on dogs with signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS): a prospective double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical study. Front Nutr. 2018 Dec 12;5:127.
Lu Liu, Song Qiao, Liying Zhuang, Shanhu Xu, Linhui Chen, Qilun Lai, Wenfeng Wang. Choline Intake Correlates with Cognitive Performance among Elder Adults in the United States. Behav Neurol. 2021, Article ID 2962245.