Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost Organic MCT Oil Brain & Nervous Support Supplement for Dogs, 16-fl oz bottle
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About This Item
Details
- Provides the necessary energy to help fight cognitive decline in senior dogs.
- This tasty organic MCT oil is easy to give to your beloved senior.
- Powered by two simple and natural ingredients, caprylic acid and capric acid, to help protect the brain from inflammation and cell damage.
- Made in Canada from pure, organic coconut oil that’s human grade and free from palm oil, palm kernel oil, and artificial additives.
- Easy to give—just mix it with your pal’s regular food twice a day, and it can also be safely used with other medications and supplements.
Ingredient Information
45 kcal/tsp
| Medium Chain Triglycerides (Organic Coconut Oil) | 4.7 g (contains C8 and C10) |
|---|
Instructions
Storage and Handling: Store at room temperature. Packaged to maintain freshness. Do not use if inner seal is broken or missing.
Directions for use: Can be given during meal time. Best when taken on a full stomach, start at 1/4 of the recommended amount. Introduce it gradually. Slowly increase over two weeks. Give twice daily.
| Weight | Daily Feeding (Teaspoon) |
|---|---|
| Up to 11 lbs | ½ |
| 12 - 22 lbs | 1 |
| 23 - 33 lbs | 1 ¼ |
| 34 - 44 lbs | 1 ¾ |
| 45 - 55 lbs | 2 |
| 56 - 66 lbs | 2 ¼ |
| 67 - 77 lbs | 2 ½ |
| 78 - 88 lbs | 2 ¾ |
| 89 - 99 lbs | 3 |
| 100 - 110 lbs | 3 ¼ |
| Above 110 lbs | 3 ½ |
FAQ
MCT oil has been shown to help regulate normal sleep-wake cycles, may lessen the severity of anxiety-related behaviors and disorientation, and may help improve memory, learning, and activity levels.
What are the benefits of Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost?
As an integrative veterinarian, Dr. Julie Buzby is constantly searching for natural alternatives to complement traditional medicines in her veterinary toolkit. And she’s especially passionate about those that will support the health and wellbeing of senior dogs! Brain Boost, the only formula on the market developed by a team of veterinarians, has the power to support normal cognitive health, promote antioxidant activity, and support normal immune system function.
Here are the top 5 amazing benefits:
Supports cognitive health.
Provides antioxidant activity.
Supports a healthy immune system.
Easily digestible.
Whisker-licking good taste.
It’s not just fuel for your dog’s mind and body, it’s the hope of better days ahead.
How long after starting Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost until I see results?
Most often, Brain Boost works within 30-90 days. In some cases, dogs have shown improvement in as little as 2 weeks after starting MCT oil supplementation.
Do dogs like the taste of Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost? Yes! We understand if you are adding a supplement to your dog’s food, it’s very important that your dog will eat it. The good news is that a study performed in 2022 demonstrated that a liquid MCT oil containing a combination of caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10) was well-received and readily accepted by dogs. That’s one of many reasons Brain Boost is specifically formulated with C8 and C10.
What is MCT oil for dogs?
MCT is short for medium chain triglyceride. So MCT oil is a health supplement that contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been shown to have health benefits for dogs, especially senior dogs.
What are triglycerides (TGs)?
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the bloodstream. When fats are consumed, the digestive system breaks those down into fatty acids. Fatty acids can be classified into 3 categories based on their chemical formula: short-chain fatty acids have less than 6 carbon atoms, medium-chain fatty acids have 6-12, and long-chain fatty acids have over 12 carbon atoms.
Why does Brain Boost contain only C8 and C10 medium-chain triglycerides?
These two specific MCTs have tremendous potential health benefits for dogs. Caprylic acid (C8) provides an essential alternative source of fuel for the brain when it is metabolized into ketones. Ketones are easier for the body to break down than glucose, which is valuable since glucose metabolism in the brain slows down as dogs age. Capric acid (C10) provides energy to cells and can help boost immunity. As a rule, the shorter the carbon chain, the easier it is for the body to process.
Is Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost made from coconut oil or palm oil/palm kernel oil?
Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost is only made from 100% organic coconut oil and intentionally contains only the C8 and C10 MCTs.
Is Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost organic?
Yes, Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost is USDA organic and certified by QAI International. As a proactive dog parent, you may also be interested to know that Brain Boost is also non-GMO verified, human grade, sustainably sourced, and ethically sourced.
Are there any artificial ingredients in Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost?
No, Brain Boost does not contain artificial flavors, colors, additives, or preservatives. It is made from 100% pure organic coconut oil.
Can you show me the calorie content, fat, protein, and moisture content in Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost?
Yes, of course! Please check out the product information on our Brain Boost label.
What are the ingredients in Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost?
Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost is made from 100% pure organic coconut oil. There are no artificial flavors, colors, additives, or preservatives.
Yes! When we launched Brain Boost, we interviewed companies all over North America to find a manufacturer committed to providing an organic MCT oil that is both sustainably and ethically sourced. We are proud that Brain Boost is both sustainably and ethically sourced.
Will Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost reverse Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)?
No, you cannot reverse CCD, and there is no cure. However, adding MCT oil to a senior dog’s diet has been shown to improve their cognitive ability and diminish their CCD symptoms. As with all progressive diseases, early diagnosis and intervention positively affect the overall quality of the remainder of the dog’s life. Therefore, starting MCT oil early in the disease process will have the greatest positive long-term effect.
Is Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost safe to give to my dog with idiopathic epilepsy?
Yes, in fact, supplementing with MCT oil has been shown not only to decrease seizure activity but also to have a neuroprotective effect in some epileptic dogs. Numerous studies have shown that dogs fed a diet rich in added MCTs experienced a significant decrease in the frequency and severity of their seizure activity. A small percentage of dogs actually experienced a complete cessation of seizure activity while they were on the MCT-rich diet. These findings strengthen the notion that, overall, MCTs may play a supportive role in the treatment of canine epilepsy.
Could Brain Boost allow my dog to decrease his seizure medications?
First of all, always consult your veterinarian about questions regarding your dog’s medications and certainly before making ANY changes in dosing. Interestingly, research has shown through the cytochrome P450 pathway in the liver, MCT oil can lower the amount of anti-epileptic medication a dog may need. This occurs because MCT oil is a cytochrome P450 inhibitor, which means it decreases the rate at which medications are absorbed. When this occurs, medications are active in the body much longer, which may allow for a decrease in dose or dose frequency.
(9) Tayutivutikul, Naim & Wanleenuwat, Pitchaya & Panapongvasin, Thanaphat & Klajing, Rakklao & Iwanowski, Piotr. (2022). Dietary effects on antiseizure drug metabolism and management of epilepsy. Seizure. 102. 10.1016/j. Seizure.2022.09.009.
How much Brain Boost should I give my dog?
Serving size is based on your dog’s body weight. Using the chart below, find the amount in the “serving per meal” column corresponding with your dog’s body weight in pounds. It’s important to introduce Brain Boost into your dog’s diet gradually over the course of 2 weeks to allow your dog’s system to adapt. See the chart below for complete feeding directions.
How do I give Brain Boost to my dog?
Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost is easy to give! Introduce Brain Boost into your dog’s diet, starting at ¼ the recommended serving.
Simply give the recommended amount to your dog twice daily at mealtime. If your dog eats only once a day, give the second serving with a treat.
Increase the serving amount gradually over 2 weeks to give your dog’s system time to adjust.
Is it important to introduce Brain Boost gradually into my dog’s diet?
Yes, it’s important to introduce Brain Boost into your dog’s diet gradually. Working up to the full dose slowly over two weeks allows your dog’s tummy to adapt.
For best results, follow these feeding guidelines:
Introduce Brain Boost into your dog’s diet, starting at ¼ the recommended serving.
Simply give the recommended amount to your dog twice daily at mealtime. If your dog eats only once a day, give the second serving with a treat.
Increase the serving amount gradually over 2 weeks to give your dog’s system time to adjust.
Do I need to change the amount of food I give my dog to account for adding Brain Boost?
Brain Boost should represent no more than 5% of the total calories of your dog’s diet, but if your dog is prone to weight gain, speak with your dog’s veterinarian about whether decreasing the amount your dog eats would be recommended.
Is Dr. Buzby's MCT oil supplement veterinarian recommended?
Yes, Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost is not only recommended by veterinarians, it was developed by veterinarians. When Dr. Julie Buzby couldn’t find an MCT oil to earn her endorsement, she organized a team of veterinarians to develop Brain Boost. Our premium supplement formulated especially for dogs is USDA-certified organic, ethically and sustainably sourced, and human grade. It’s not just fuel for your dog’s mind and body, it’s the hope of better days ahead.
Furthermore, MCTs are recommended for senior dogs in the American Animal Hospital Association’s 2023 Senior Care Guidelines.
Are there any side effects of Brain Boost?
Most senior dogs tolerate Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost well. However, as with any nutritional supplement, gastrointestinal side effects (digestive upset, excessive gas, soft stools, etc.) are possible, which is why we strongly recommend a gradual introduction of the supplement over two weeks to allow your dog’s system to adjust.
What is MCT oil for dogs?
MCT is short for “medium chain triglyceride.” So MCT oil is a health supplement that contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been shown to have health benefits for dogs, especially senior dogs.
What are medium chain triglycerides (MCTs)?
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) are fatty acids found in many foods, including dairy products, nuts, seeds, and oils. MCTs are classified based on the number of carbon atoms (C) they contain. The four types of MCTs are caproic acid (C6), caprylic acid (C8), capric acid (C10), and lauric acid (C12).
Why does Brain Boost contain only C8 and C10 medium-chain triglycerides?
These two specific MCTs have tremendous potential health benefits for dogs. Caprylic acid (C8) provides an essential alternative source of fuel for the brain when it is metabolized into ketones. Ketones are easier for the body to break down than glucose, which is valuable since glucose metabolism in the brain slows down as dogs age. Capric acid (C10) provides energy to cells and can help boost immunity. As a rule, the shorter the carbon chain, the easier it is for the body to process.
Does Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost contain C12?
Brain Boost contains 60% caprylic acid (C8) and 40% capric acid (C10). (Natural variations may occur.) Our veterinarian-developed formula does not contain lauric acid (C12) because it has been associated with an increased risk of digestive upset in dogs. Our veterinary team strongly believes that any benefits do not outweigh the potential risks of including C12.
Is Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost safe to give with other medications?
Although MCT oil is generally regarded as a very safe supplement, we always recommend consulting with your regular veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s daily routine. Research has shown that MCT oil may inhibit cytochrome P450 function in the liver, which slows the rate of metabolism of certain medications including antifungal and antiepileptics. If your dog is currently on antiepileptic medication please read this FAQ or read below.
Research has shown that a refined, quality MCT oil for dogs comprised of only caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10) has not been associated with overstimulation of the pancreas in dogs. This is because C8 and C10 are absorbed directly into the digestive tract when consumed, bypassing stimulation of the pancreas. Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost contains ONLY caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10) in a 60:40 liquid oil preparation.
However, because Brain Boost is an oil-based product, it should be used cautiously in dogs with a history of pancreatitis and discontinued if any gastrointestinal signs are observed. As always, please talk to your veterinarian before beginning this supplement to discuss your dog’s individual needs.
Is it safe to give Dr. Buzby's Brain Boost for dogs long-term?
Yes! In fact, it’s recommended and proven to provide the greatest effect when started early in the course of cognitive decline and continued for the remainder of the dog’s life.
(5) Milgram NW;Head E;Muggenburg B;Holowachuk D;Murphey H;Estrada J;Ikeda-Douglas CJ;Zicker SC;Cotman CW (2002). Landmark discrimination learning in the dog: effects of age, an antioxidant fortified food, and cognitive strategy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2002 Oct;26(6):679-95. Doi: 10.1016/s0149-7634(02)00039-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12479842/
Can my dog take Brain Boost with other supplements?
Yes, Brain Boost is safe to use with most other supplements.
Is there an inner seal on the Brain Boost bottle?
Yes, every bottle of Brain Boost has an inner seal, and the cap is also externally sealed to prevent leakage. As with any product, do not use it if the inner seal is broken or missing.
We recommend storing Brain Boost organic MCT oil for dogs at room temperature.
Brain Boost is stable at room temperature and does not require refrigeration. If your bottle of Brain Boost is accidentally refrigerated, you may notice the oil turning white and cloudy instead of clear. This will not affect the efficacy of the product or necessitate the need to discard it. To resolve this, simply remove the bottle from the refrigerator and allow it to return to room temperature. Brain Boost should quickly return to its original state.
Does Brain Boost have an expiration date?
Yes, you can find the expiration date on the label on the bottle. What if my dog eats more than the recommended serving size? Because Brain Boost™ is a health supplement, it should be safe. However, your dog may experience digestive upset if more than the recommended serving size is consumed. Should this occur, consult your veterinarian.
For dogs with a history of dietary sensitivities or pancreatitis, we recommend proactively consulting your veterinarian if your dog consumes an excessive amount of Brain Boost.
Brain Boost is a human-grade product but is not labeled for human consumption. Even though Brain Boost is non-toxic, if your child accidentally ingests it, we recommend contacting the National Poison Control free helpline at 1-800-222-1222 to discuss recommendations.
Brain Boost is safe for dogs when used as directed. However, consuming more than the recommended serving size could result in digestive upset including nausea, vomiting, excessive gas, and soft, oily stools. Dogs with a history of pancreatitis may also experience pancreatic inflammation and abdominal discomfort. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Brain Boost is not toxic but may cause mild, transient eye irritation due to its viscous nature. If your dog accidentally gets Brain Boost in his eye, gently flush the eye with cool water for several minutes to remove any oily residue, and then carefully dry the face and eyelids after flushing. If irritation persists, having your dog examined by your regular veterinarian is recommended.
Can I give Dr. Buzby’s Brain Boost to my puppy or young adult dog?
Brain Boost is safe for dogs of all ages but is specifically intended as a health supplement for senior or special needs dogs. Supplementing with Brain Boost is not necessary for younger dogs eating a nutritionally balanced, appropriate life-stage diet.
If I give my dog a larger dose, will Brain Boost work faster or better?
No. Brain Boost’s serving size is calculated according to body weight. Offering a larger serving to your dog will not result in a “faster” or “better” response, and may cause digestive upset.
Brain Boost is intended for use as a health supplement only. It should not compose more than 5% of your dog’s daily caloric intake and is not an appropriate substitute for a complete, balanced diet. Adding more than the recommended amount of Brain Boost to your dog’s diet may result in digestive upset.
Brain Boost supports cellular antioxidant activity and a healthy immune system for senior dogs but is not specifically formulated to improve mobility.
What if I miss a serving of Brain Boost?
Brain Boost is most effective when given consistently, twice daily, according to the label directions. However, if a serving is missed, simply give it at your dog’s next mealtime and continue twice daily as directed.
My dog also gets fish oil, should I discontinue that or give them separately?
Brain Boost is safe to give with fish oil, but we recommend speaking with your veterinarian before adding additional supplements to your dog’s daily routine.
Brain Boost is a clear oil at room temperature. It does not need refrigeration to extend its shelf life or maintain effectiveness. If Brain Boost is accidentally refrigerated, you may notice a change in color and/or consistency (i.e. cloudy). In this case, simply remove Brain Boost from the refrigerator and let it return to room temperature. It should return to its normal color and consistency.
What if my Brain Boost MCT oil appears cloudy?
Brain Boost is a clear oil at room temperature. It does not need refrigeration to extend its shelf life or maintain effectiveness. If Brain Boost is accidentally refrigerated, you may notice a change in color and/or consistency (i.e. cloudy). In this case, simply remove Brain Boost from the refrigerator and let it return to room temperature. It should return to its normal color and consistency.
The package sat outside in the heat, will my Brain Boost still be ok?
MCT oil is very stable, so warm temperatures should not be a concern.
Can I bake Brain Boost into my dog’s home-cooked meals or will the heat change it?
Medium chain triglycerides are only heat stable up to about 350°F (176.6°C), so baking Brain Boost into your dog’s home-cooked meals may reduce its effectiveness and give it an unpleasant taste.
Can I pour Brain Boost into ice cube trays and freeze it for easier serving and storage life?
The freezing point of MCT oil is 23°F or -5°C, so it is unlikely your freezer will be cold enough to cause Brain Boost to freeze. We do not recommend freezing it.
https://us.fullscript.com/catalog/products/organic-mct-oil-16oz/U3ByZWU6OlZhcmlhbnQtMTA4OTc5
May I pour Brain Boost into a smaller container?
For best results, Brain Boost should remain in its original container. If you do need to take a smaller portion of Brain Boost with you for travel, we recommend a lightproof bottle with a tight screw cap to minimize the risk of light-induced deterioration of the product and leakage during transit. For airline travel, check with your air carrier’s size limitations for carry-on liquids before arriving at the airport.
May I take Brain Boost myself since it’s human grade?
While Brain Boost is a human-grade MCT oil, it is labeled only for dogs.
Can I give Brain Boost to my cat?
Brain Boost is formulated specifically for dogs. While MCT oil is theoretically safe for cats to consume in small quantities, please consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
Can I place Brain Boost topically on the skin like regular coconut oil?
Brain Boost is not intended for topical use.
Are there research studies that support the use of MCT oil for dogs?
American Animal Hospital Association. (2023). AAHA Senior Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. Retrieved from https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/2023-aaha-senior-care-guidelines-for-dogs-and-cats/resources/2023-aaha-senior-care-guidelines-for-dogs-and-cats.pdf
Mamer, O. A., Choiniere, C. J., & Boudreau, A. (2006). Increases in hepatic oxidative capacities induced by acute exercise are accompanied by transient decreases in malonyl-CoA levels in mice. American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology, 290(1), R83-R90. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpregu.00290.2005
Edwards Bvsc, Alice. “NEURO-DIETETICS: MEDIUM CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES and THEIR SCOPE as ADJUNCTIVE THERAPY for NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS in DOGS.” Control & Therapy Series -Issue, vol. 304, 2021. Accessed 11 Apr. 2024.
Landsberg, G. (2005). Therapeutic agents for the treatment of cognitive dysfunction syndrome in senior dogs. Doncaster Animal Clinic, 99 Henderson Avenue, Thornhill, Ontario, Canada L3T 2K9. Retrieved from https://natural-necessity.com/doc/research/Alpha-Lipoic-Acid/ALA-Cognitive-Dysfunction-in-a-Dog.pdf
Milgram NW;Head E;Muggenburg B;Holowachuk D;Murphey H;Estrada J;Ikeda-Douglas CJ;Zicker SC;Cotman CW (2002). Landmark discrimination learning in the dog: effects of age, an antioxidant fortified food, and cognitive strategy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2002 Oct;26(6):679-95. Doi: 10.1016/s0149-7634(02)00039-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12479842/
Tynes, V. V., & Landsberg, G. (2021). Nutritional management of behavior and brain disorders in dogs and cats. the Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice, 51(3), 711–727. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvsm.2021.01.011
Pan Y, Larson B, Araujo JA, et al. Dietary supplementation with medium-chain TAG has long-lasting cognition-enhancing effects in aged dogs. Br J Nutr 2010; 103:1746-54.
M. Chandler and H. Volk. (2019). Fuel the Brain: Diet Considerations for the Dog with a Seizure Disorder. World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress Proceedings. https://www.vin.com/members/cms/project/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=24437&id=9382841
Tayutivutikul, Naim & Wanleenuwat, Pitchaya & Panapongvasin, Thanaphat & Klajing, Rakklao & Iwanowski, Piotr. (2022). Dietary effects on antiseizure drug metabolism and management of epilepsy. Seizure. 102. 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.09.009.