| abstract |
Methods are provided for eliciting a beneficial health effect in a human or non-human animal which include adding at least one bixin compound or an extract of the annatto (Bixa orellana) seed to an animal feed, food product or nutritional supplement in an amount effective to increase the concentration of bixin in the blood supply of the animal when the food or supplement is consumed at a recommended daily dosage (unit dosage) for a sufficient number of days. A method of eliciting a therapeutic health effect in a human or non-human animal by adding an effective amount of at least one bixin compound to a pharmaceutical compound is also provided. The beneficial or therapeutic health effect may be further enhanced by the addition of at least one carotenoid compound or carotenoid-containing extract to the feed, food product, nutritional supplement, or pharmaceutical composition. These methods are particularly suited to companion animals, such as cats and dogs, and to farmed animals, such as layer hens, broiler chickens, and pigs. |