Understanding Raw Food Principles Through Chinese Medicine

Here at Marlins we follow  the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which emphasizes the importance of balancing energies within the body according to the seasons. This guide will delve into how we choose proteins based on seasonal needs and their thermal properties to support your pet's well-being.

Hot, Neutral, and Cool Proteins

In TCM, proteins are categorized based on their thermal nature, which can influence your pet's health. Here's an overview of how different proteins fit into this framework:

Hot Proteins (Best for Cool Months)

  • Lamb: Known for its rich, warming properties, lamb is excellent for colder months as it warms the interior and supports metabolism.
  • Venison: A lean, hot protein that is great for pets that need to boost their energy during the winter.
  • Goat: Highly nutritious and warming, goat meat is perfect for providing extra warmth and nourishment.
  • Chicken: A lean, highly digestable protein making it a good choice for sensitive stomachs.

Neutral Proteins (Year-Round Options)

  • Turkey: Mild and easily digestible, turkey can be fed throughout the year without significantly impacting your pet's thermal balance.
  • Beef: Rich in nutrients, beef is versatile and neutral, making it suitable for any season but best when balanced with other proteins.
  • Pork: Providing a great building block for raw diets, pork is another neutral choice that can be adjusted based on your pet’s needs.
  • Salmon: Its omega-3 fatty acids support overall health, and with its neutral energy, it is appropriate for all seasons.

Cool Proteins (Ideal for Hot Months)

  • Duck: The cooling, moist quality of duck can help keep pets calm and balanced during the heat.
  • Rabbit: Known for its light and cooling properties, rabbit is ideal for warm weather. Rabbit is considered a novel protein, ideal for dogs with food allergies. 
  • Whitefish: This easily digestible fish can help cool the body and is a great addition to summer diets. Great for dogs that need a lower calorie diet. 

Feeding Considerations: Warm vs Cold Prey

When it comes to raw feeding, the temperature of the food can affect your pet's digestion. Cold food directly from the fridge can shock the digestive system, causing discomfort,slower digestion and even occasional regurgitation. This is particularly important in TCM, as warmth enhances digestive function. To optimize your pet's digestive health, consider bringing food to room temperature before serving. This approach not only helps in digestion but also ensures your pet fully absorbs nutrients effectively. This can be achieved by letting the bowl sit on the counter for 20-30 mins prior to serving.

Seasonal Feeding Guide

Aligning your pet's diet with the seasons can not only support health but also enhance vitality and helps prevent bowl boredom throughout the year!

  • Winter: Focus on hot proteins such as lamb, venison, and goat to keep your pet warm and active.
  • Spring/Fall: Rotate in neutral proteins like turkey, beef, and pork to maintain balance as temperatures transition.
  • Summer: Introduce cool proteins such as duck, rabbit, and whitefish to help keep your pet's temperature in check while supporting overall health.

Summary

Choosing the right proteins for your pet based on the principles of Chinese Medicine can enhance their overall health and well-being. By understanding the thermal properties of various meats and adjusting your feeding strategy according to the seasons, you can ensure that your pet thrives year-round. Remember to transition your pet's food to room temperature before serving to aid digestion. Happy feeding!

 

Jess Morgan

Jess@marlinsrawsuperfood.com