Ask the Vegan Vet: Phytic Acid

"I have a question regarding phytic acid, which is said to inhibit the absorption of certain nutrients (e.g., iron, calcium, etc) from foods. The phytic acid content is particularly high in grains and legumes. Since the first/main ingredients in your kibble are dried peas, brown rice, pea protein concentrate, oats, sorghum, and lentils, how do you address this point?" 

Dear Jamie,

That's a very insightful question. Phytic acid minimally inhibits certain mineral absorption but should not be eliminated from the diet as it is a powerful anti-oxidant. Specifically, it can mildly decrease zinc and iron absorption, but bacteria naturally growing in the intestinal tract tend to break its mineral bonding. In fact, studies show phytic acid may help prevent certain types of cancer in humans - and thus likely in dogs as well. Since V-dog is a well-balanced diet, phytic acid should not have a significant effect on mineral absorption but likely has multiple beneficial effects as shown in the most recent studies on the subject.

All the best,

Lorelei Wakefield, VMD, for V-dog

[Learn more about Dr. Wakefield on our vegan vets page]

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