Ascophyllum Nodosum Seaweed: Science Behind its Benefits

Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed is a kelp species that naturally helps keep your pet's teeth clean and reduce bad breath. It is a unique source of marine brown seaweed selected for its ability to reduce plaque, tartar buildup and bad breath.

How Ascophyllum nodosum supports dental health in dogs and cats

Seaweed is beneficial for teeth because it contains an enzyme known as Bacillus licheniformis. The enzyme protects against tooth decay by stripping harmful bacteria away from plaque.

By targeting the root cause of plaque buildup, Bacillus licheniformis helps reduce the risk of tartar formation and tooth decay over time.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a large, common cold-water seaweed or brown alga belonging to the Fucaceae family and is the sole species in the genus Ascophyllum. This remarkable seaweed thrives in the North Atlantic Ocean and is commonly referred to by various names, including rockweed, Norwegian kelp, knotted kelp, knotted wrack, egg wrack, and, in some local regions, as feamainn bhui.

Seaweed for Dogs and Cats: A natural solution for oral health

Adding a daily seaweed supplement to your pet’s diet can help reduce plaque buildup on their teeth, naturally supporting cleaner, fresher breath. Seaweed, particularly Ascophyllum nodosum, a species of brown kelp, is known for its oral health benefits for pets. This unique seaweed contains potent bioactives such as fucoidans and polyphenols, which are absorbed into body tissues to reduce plaque, tartar, and bad breath, ultimately promoting healthier gums and teeth.

Seaweed is more than just a boost for oral health; it's one of the most nutrient-rich and environmentally sustainable crops. Packed with essential marine minerals—iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, and iron—seaweed supports key bodily functions from enzyme activity to nervous system health. It also contains trace elements, a spectrum of vitamins, all essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids like linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid particularly beneficial for dogs.

Seaweed is rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, as well as carotenoids and flavonoids. The primary carotenoid, Fucoxanthin, has 13.5 times the antioxidant capacity of vitamin E. These beneficial compounds help protect your pet's body from cell damage, while their anti-inflammatory properties may improve immunity, give it shinier coats, enhance energy, and improve digestion.

In addition to its scientifically proven ability to remove plaque, prevent tartar buildup and eliminate bad breath, Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed may also:

• Protect against free radicals and oxidative stress
• Promote gut health
• Optimise metabolism
• Reduce the risk of heart disease
• Improve blood sugar control, reducing the risk of diabetes

For pet owners in search of an Ascophyllum nodosum supplement, DentaMax is a veterinarian-recommended product across South Africa. Made with Norwegian seaweed, the active ingredient in DentaMax has shown a 35% reduction in plaque within the first eight weeks of use. This all-natural supplement delivers a dual-action formula that systemically targets bad breath, plaque and tartar to support long-term oral health and hygiene, making it an effective choice for clean, healthy teeth and gums in dogs and cats.