AGRIBUSINESS: CHICKEN ; YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR WALLET.

Chicken presented as broilers,layers and cockerels are all part of the poultry value chain.Each aspect of production has numerous advantages with potential investment opportunities.Investing in the poultry value chain could be at any of the following levels ; short term,long term and seasonal. The investment opportunities are at the following points; production,processing,packaging,product marketing ,distribution( transportation) and sales.The main source of production is the chicken,thus the need to show case the benefits derived from consuming chicken. WHY EAT CHICKEN ??? Chicken is a rich source of protein, which is essential for growth and muscle development.Chicken supports a healthy body weight,thus can be a tool for weight loss programme. It also has less saturated fat and its also a good source of omega-3 -fatty acids. Chicken contains vitamin B6 ,this helps to reduce circulating levels of homo cysteine which has been linked to heart attack.The niacin content in chicken helps lower cholesterol level,thus reducing risk of heart attack.Niacin also prevents cancer and DNA damage. Chicken is rich in phosphorus ,this is essential for teeth and bone development as well as proper functioning of kidney,liver and the central nervous system. A diet rich in chicken will prevent osteoporosis and arthritis.The selenium in chicken is essential for metabolic performance of the thyroid , and proper functioning of hormones and immune system. Chicken boosts metabolism because of the high level of vitamin B6 ,which encourages enzymes and metabolic cellular reactions.This vitamin maintains blood vessel integrity,changes liver metabolism thus encouraging rapid burning of calories. Chicken contains retinol,alpha and beta carotene and lycopenes which are vitamin A precursors,this ensures perfect eyesight.Chicken also contains vitamin B2; essential for healthy tissue growth . Chicken can be used as an antidepressant,also to relieve stress; chicken has high levels of tryptophan which is a precursor of serotonin.Serotonin enhances mood,blasts stress and helps to prevent insomnia. Chicken has high levels of vitamin B5 which gives a calming effect on the body,thus relieves stress.Magnesium is in high values in chicken ,helps reduce PMS and fight mood swings.The zinc rich nature of chicken helps boost testosterone level as well as sperm production. Chicken has immense benefits for healthy living,thus preventing unnecessary trips to the doctor.Eating chicken can be fun -filled as there are varieties to the dish,thus making chicken a delight every time.

VETERINARY MEDICINE: LIVER TREAT FOR DOGS.

VETERINARY MEDICINE: LIVER TREAT FOR DOGS. Dogs require protein to build the body and repair damaged cells thus they are an essential part of the diet.Protein can be sourced from plants and animals to be incorporated in dog meals. Protein sources that are of animal origin are beef, mutton, chicken,turkey ,liver,gizzard tongue,and eggs,while plant based protein will include beans and soy.The proportion of the protein varies with source and the inclusion in diet will depend on this amount.The use of protein in the body cannot be overemphasized,however the inclusion of this in diet must be proportional to dietary requirement,health status and age of dog. Protein make and repair cells,turn food to energy,create certain enzymes,hormones and antibodies.The metabolism of protein results in amino acids that are needed for proper body functioning and cell function maintenance. Liver is a protein source for dogs can be incorporated in diet at a rate of once or twice a week.Liver provides protein,fat and vitamin A.It is also a source of copper,iron,niacin,phosphorus and zinc. Liver treats are restricted to 1/2 servings per week because its very high in vitamin A,so as not to risk the possibilities of hypervitaminosis . Liver recipes may include boiled,fried,baked or steamed and stewed options.The liver to be used as treats must possess these qualities so that its nutritional value is harnessed.The liver must be clean,with no holes or nodules. It must not be brittle,discolored or have any odor.The liver must not have flukes,or worms and must not be turgid.It must not be filled with blood,jaundiced or doughy. Liver can be a supplement to a meal or as a healthy snack or a main meal.A liver recipe that is quick and easy is the fried liver treat,prepared as follows; 1) Get liver; wash and dice. 2)boil for some 2 minutes,then fry the liver cubes. This can be served with pasta/rice or just serve as liver cuts. The liver can also be boiled until very tender and pounded this can be incorporated in meals or used as stewing delicacy.Liver treats not only serve nutritional benefits but can be used as therapy in anemic patients,where liver extracts are of immense benefits. When next you are having a liver dish, toss fido his share he will love it.