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The
Basic Nutrients
Water
- The body is composed of approximately 80% water. Every cell is
dependent upon water for it's very existence. It is necessary
for energy production, transportation of nutrients, and to help
regulate body temperature. It is well known that a body can survive
longer without food than without water. Under extreme conditions,
it is possible to lose 50% of muscle mass and almost 100% of fat
stores, but a 15% fluid loss could lead to death
A
constant source of CLEAN water is essential for your bird's well
being. Be sure to keep water containers clean and to change
the water at least daily. More frequent changes are needed
if the bird drops food in the water, since food will contaminate
the water quickly. Also, place food and water cups in areas
where droppings will not fall into them. For example keep
them out from under perches.
Proteins
- Proteins are essential for the health and
maintenance of all body issues. They play a key role in normal
growth, reproduction and resistance to infection. Proteins are made
up of small sub units called amino acids. Every species has
it's own requirements for certain amino acids. These essential
amino acids cannot be manufactured by the body and must be provided
by the diet. Common sources of proteins include bean, nuts, eggs,
meat and dairy products.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates are the body's primary fuel. They are found in plants
and include starches and simple sugars. Carbohydrates that are not
immediately needed by the body are stored in the liver and muscles.
Fiber, often found in carbohydrates, helps maintain normal intestinal
function and prevent constipation. Common sources of carbohydrates
include fruits, vegetables, and cereal grains.
Fats
- Fats are the most concentrated energy source. They provide more
than twice as much energy per unit than either protein or carbohydrates.
Fats insulate and store energy for the body and are also required
for the normal absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.
Common sources of Fats include nuts, seeds, and many dairy products.
Minerals
- Minerals play a crucial role in the maintenance and strength of
bone, normal cell function, nerve conduction and muscle contraction.
They are also important in maintaining the proper balance of body
fluids. Minerals are required in only minute amounts, but the balance
between different minerals is crucial. If this balance is disrupted,
it can lead to serious problems. Therefore, supplementation, if
needed at all it is best done with a complete, balanced mineral
supplement.
Grit
- While not a food grit is something people think all birds need.
They do not. If it is overeaten, grit impaction can occur in the
digestive system. Chickens and turkeys eat whole seeds and require
small bits of sand to grind off the coating of the seed in order
to digest it. Parrots, on the other hand, crack their seeds before
they eat them. This eliminates the need for grinding stones in the
gizzard. Finches and canaries do require extremely small amounts
of grit in order to digest their food. Two pieces per week is probably
adequate for these birds.
A
danger exists in overfeeding grit to birds. From boredom or sickness,
birds sometimes eat too much grit and they can develop an impaction
in the digestive tract. For the same reason, you should not use
sand-covered cage liner or sand-covered perch wrappers even if it
is not called grit. Birds can eat this sand as well.
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Gary A. Gallerstein. "The Complete Pet Bird Owner's Handbook"
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