A growing body of evidence suggests the close relationship between the liver and the gut plays a major role in the development of liver disease. Not only do they share hormones but each is able to influence the other. Where digestive health is reduced, leakage of food particles and microbial remnants from the gut into the bloodstream can overwhelm the liver’s natural immune tolerance which leads to immune response inflammation of the liver. Inflammation is associated with fat deposits which leads to fatty liver disease, cirrhosis and steatohepatitis. It is estimated that up to 95% of obese animals suffer from the effects of fatty liver disease. In many cases gut dysbiosis also leads to bacterial translocation from the gut to the liver, further exacerbating damage to this vital organ. Additionally, the general increase in protein levels in manufactured pet foods is resulting in more and more dogs succumbing to impaired kidney function due to kidney damage from the excretion of the additional quantities of nitrogen that must be purged from the body via the urine. The specific nutrient ratios in this food are designed to reduce the load on the kidneys, thus preserving what function remains. Unfortunately, there is no cure for kidney damage. After 50 years of ongoing research into the application and combination of specific ingredients, LifeWise has been able to develop a unique understanding of the role ingredient combinations play in promoting a healthy gut environment to reverse the state of dysbiosis which in turn protect organs such as the kidneys or liver. Simply treating the liver itself is not sufficient to fully restore health and well-being to a challenged animal, and it is this two pronged approach that makes this food so effective as a nutritional aid to recuperation. Not only does the food contain ingredients that foster gut health, but specific nutrients to ease the burden and allow the liver to regenerate. Transitioning to LifeWise BIOTIC Liver should be achieved gradually and carefully to provide ongoing support during the recovery process. This food should not be fed to pups, adolescent dogs, or pregnant or nursing bitches. Please consult your veterinary advisor prior to transitioning to this food.