Bismuth subsalicylate stimulates the passage of fluid and electrolytes across the wall of the intestinal tract, and binds or neutralizes the toxins of some bacteria, rendering them non-toxic. It decreases intestinal inflammation and increases the activity of intestinal muscles and lining. It has been used for the treatment of diarrhea, vomiting, and indigestion mainly in dogs and sometimes in cats. The demulcent and emollient properties of marshmallow make it useful in inflammation and irritation of the alimentary canal, and of the urinary and respiratory organs. Decoctions of the plant, especially of the root, are very useful where the natural mucus has been stripped from the coat of the intestines. Marshmallow has been used internally for gastroenteritis, peptic and duodenal ulceration, common and ulcerative colitis, and enteritis. Slippery elm bark is a soothing, astringent demulcent, useful for ulcers, gastritis, colitis, diarrhea, and other intestinal problems. It is also an easily digested food for convalescence. L-glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body, where it functions as a major fuel source. Glutamine also is important for the health of the intestinal wall, protecting against bacterial translocation, and promoting healing. Glutamine is stored in muscle tissue in order to meet the needs of other body tissues and inhibits muscle atrophy induced by stress hormones. Probiocap® is a patented microencapsulation technology that protects the viability of the specific probiotics contained in GI Defense under conditions such as moisture, heat, compression, and high acidity. Probiocap® offers significantly enhanced shelf life, i.e., no degradation of viable organisms even after 10 months of storage at room temperature. Furthermore, this technology provides a product that is up to 10,000 times more resistant to stomach acid than unprotected organisms. GI Defense contains Probiocap® L. Rhamnosus, L. Acidophilus, and B. Longum. These organisms accomplish several important functions, including: 1) Creation of a favorable environment for a desirable microbial balance, 2) Limitation of the action of putrefactive microbes, thereby controlling production of toxins and their noxious effects upon vital organs and body cells, 3) Inhibition of pathogenic bacteria and prevention of diseases caused by intestinal infections, 4) Contribution to intestinal peristalsis and elimination of harmful amines derived from amino acids, 5) Coating of the intestinal mucosa, and protection against invasion and activities of harmful microorganisms, 6) Increase of immune function through the use of lactic acid bacteria is reported by several researchers, who have studied antitumoral activity and activation of immunity. Quercetin is a major nutrient used to control inflammatory conditions. Because the usual forms of quercetin are not well absorbed in the intestinal tract, large amounts usually are needed. Yet the quercetin (chalcone form) in GI Defense is highly water-soluble and extremely well assimilated by the body. Desiccated liver greatly enhances palatability and ensures that pets will take GI Defense.

COMPOSITION: 1 capsule provides the following nutrients:

Other ingredients: capsule, microcrystalline cellulose, silica, and magnesium trisilicate.

DIRECTIONS: As a dietary supplement for pets, give 1 capsule three times daily per 20 pounds of body weight preferably between meals, or as directed by an animal health care professional. Capsule contents may be sprinkled onto food. Do not administer more than 8 capsules daily per 20 pounds of body weight.

WARNING: Contains salicylate. Use with caution or under the supervision of an animal health care professional when administering this product to cats.

GI Defense does not contain wheat, rye, oats, corn, gluten, soy, egg, dairy, yeast, sugar, wax, preservatives, colorings, or artificial flavorings.

† Quercetin chalcone is a water-soluble form of quercetin, protected under US patent 5,977,184.