In human realms, we trace the importance of iron back to the Egyptians, Hindus, Greeks and Romans. During the 17th Century, iron was used to treat chlorosis (green disease) which was a condition resulting from iron deficiency. But we didn’t really understand the importance of inorganic iron until around 1932 – this is when we found out about its role in haemoglobin synthesis. As we’re always a little behind in our canine findings, we possibly still to this day don’t respect this trusty mineral as much as we should, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d explore it in a little more detail and it’s importance in pet health. Functions of Iron Oxygen transport Oxygen storage as myoglobin Energy production Cofactor for multiple enzymes Production of neurotransmitters and thyroid hormone We understand the important role of iron when we look at how tightly regulated it is in the body. The body has three unique mechanisms for maintaining iron balance and preventing deficiency and overload: Storage of iron Reutilisation of iron Regulation of iron absorption Iron from food is mainly absorbed in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Iron can be in ferrous state (Fe2+) or ferric state (Fe3+). Fe3+ is not directly absorbed, but Fe2+ is easily absorbed. In the intestine, Fe3+ is converted by ferric reductases into Fe2+ and then when required by the body, iron is transported by transferrin (a blood-plasma glycoprotein) to bone marrow and other tissues. Iron is required for the transport of oxygen, oxygen storage in muscle, and is also a component of energy production. After absorption, any iron that isn’t needed, is stored as ferritin in the liver, spleen or bone marrow. During times of high need, iron is then released. Most of the iron in the body is contained within red blood cells. Red blood cells have been noted to have a life span of around 115 days but when they reach the end of their life span, they release iron. The resultant liberated iron can be reused to produce new erythrocytes in bone marrow, stored as ferritin or released back into systemic circulation. Iron Disorders Iron deficiency anaemia is the common condition associated with decreased iron levels, resulting in low circulating haemoglobin and reduced myoglobin. In dogs, iron deficiency anaemia is usually secondary to some form of chronic blood loss, but it is also seen in puppies fed poor diets or who have severe parasitic infections. Signs of Iron Deficiency Anaemia: Pale gums Low energy Weight loss Laboured breathing Increased heart rate Signs of blood loss Iron deficiency is also associated with lower T and B lymphocyte, macrophage, and neutrophil function and so immune function can be significantly compromised. Your Pet’s Immune System On the other side of the scale, iron toxicity is generally associated with over-the-counter supplementation. At the cellular level, iron can impair metabolism in the heart, liver, and central nervous system. Iron is generally tightly bound to proteins in the body, preventing reaction, but in times of overload it becomes available in free form which disrupts oxidative phosphorylation, catalyses lipid peroxidation, forms free radicals and ultimately leads to cell death. It is this reactivity that ensures levels are tightly regulated in the body. This is largely through absorption regulation. There is no controlled mechanism for the excretion of excess iron, which would suggest that the average body would consistently possess sufficient levels. This sadly, is not the case. Daily losses for the average body are through the gastrointestinal tract via exfoliation of cells, and through the skin and urinary tract. Periods of growth and development have higher needs and pregnancy too increases the demand. Factors Affecting Absorption There are many dietary factors that affect absorption of iron and subsequently influence iron regulation in the body. There are two sources of iron: Haem is found primarily in meat and meat products Non-haem is found in plants. Haem is generally well-absorbed, whereas non-haem absorption is largely affected by other factors. Common inhibitors of iron absorption are phytates, tannins, starch, and proton pump inhibitors. Phytate binds to minerals, rendering them less available and they are commonly found in nuts, grains, pulses and tubers. Whilst tannins have been suggested to have antioxidant properties they play an inhibitory role in iron absorption. That said, unless you offer your dog tea on a regular basis, tannins are unlikely to be an issue. Proton pump inhibitors do exactly what they say on the tin. Gastric acid is secreted from cells found in the stomach. These cells contain proton pumps to secrete this very acid. Proton pump inhibitor medications come along and turn off these pumps, which stops the secretion of gastric acid. Unfortunately for us, stomach acid is important in releasing iron from ligands in food and in solubilizing ferric iron by converting it to ferrous form, so low levels of stomach acid can impair iron absorption and utilisation. Findings Here However, studies have demonstrated that when a multivitamin was administered alongside PPIs, iron absorption was not affected. The vitamin C found in the multivitamin is thought to be protective even alongside PPI medication. Vitamin C is seen as a potent facilitator of iron absorption because ascorbic acid reduces ferric to ferrous iron, which is therefore absorbable. Iron Regulation The central regulator of iron homeostasis is hepcidin. If hepcidin genes are removed, the host becomes loaded with iron. Iron is regulated through a negative feedback loop. Its presence stimulates hepcidin production and in turn blocks dietary iron absorption. In cases of iron deficiency, hepcidin is suppressed, allowing increased absorption of dietary iron. As the name suggests, hepcidin is a hormone produced in the liver and its synthesis is modulated by iron, inflammation and erythropoietic signalling. High hepcidin levels are noted during times of infection and in health issues like chronic kidney disease. Kidney Disease in Pets High hepcidin levels block intestinal iron absorption and macrophage iron recycling, effectively withholding iron from invading pathogens. Iron and Inflammation When inflammation is prolonged,
We are often told that pet ownership has health benefits, the seminal work of Friedmann and colleagues in 1980 demonstrated that pet owners who suffered a heart attack were four times more likely to survive than their non-pet owning counterparts. But we generally consider that these pet owners, in fact own dogs, and with their increase in physical activity due to the exercise requirements of the dog, it’s not a far stretch to correlate dog ownership with better physical health. However, there is more and more data suggesting that cats too can improve our physical health, and most certainly our mental health. So, could there be more to us keeping these feisty, stubborn, and wholly independent beings in our lives? Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d look into it in a little more detail. Cats and Stress It seems that cat owners on the whole, are calmer when faced with stressful situations and recover much quicker than non-cat-owners. The main theory behind this is that social support provides a buffer for stress; and it does, we know that having strong social networks in times of stress can mitigate the harmful effects, but it seems that cats, and pets on the whole, provide even more of a buffer. It is thought that cats, unlike humans are non-judgemental (although many cat owners would disagree here), so not only are they a support, we’re also not worried about what they think of us. We also find their purr relaxing. Whilst it would be great to find some complex data to suggest that the frequency of the purr helps us to relax, the reality is a little less glamourous. When we are sat next to our cat or they are on our lap, we instinctively pick up on their purr. We’ll make a fuss and listen. Quite often we start to eliminate outside noise, literally and metaphorically. Whilst we’re focussing on their purr, we’re not thinking about that extended to do list, or that deadline we’ve got to make in work. We are simply there, listening to a purr. It’s a less intentional form of mindfulness. In it’s basic definition, mindfulness is about bringing your focus to what you’re sensing or feeling at that moment. Some owners will naturally change their breathing, slowing it down to mirror their cat. This action stimulates the vagus nerve which is the chief of the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is our rest and digest system, the one that counters our fight and flight. So, often without even realising it, simply sitting, in the moment with the cat, listening to their purr, we have moderated our stress response. This will also apply when we are watching them roll over in the sunshine, or play with their toys, we are simply being with them, nothing more, nothing less. Cats and Relationships Whilst we’ve all heard the phrase, crazy cat person, it seems that when assessed against personality factors, cat owners are more socially sensitive, trusting and like other people more than non-cat owners. As we mentioned earlier, social support is a buffer in times of stress, so it could be suggested that as cat owners tend to get on with other people more, they have a better social network, providing more of a buffer, therefore making them more resilient in tough times. So, whilst owning a cat is not directly linked to better relationships, people who choose to own cats tend to possess personality traits that help them experience quality relationships. Findings Here This could largely be due to the hormone oxytocin. This hormone plays a role in social bonding, reproduction, childbirth, and the period after childbirth. In humans it is seen to increase when touched, when we watch an emotional movie or engage in group activities. Humans have many oxytocin receptors compared to other animals, demonstrating our need for social interaction; affecting our central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, oxytocin is a key player in reducing stress hormones. Oxytocin is known to increase when petting both cats and dogs, and it has been demonstrated that this increase, subsequently enhances trust of a stranger, meaning cat owners may be more likely to engage in new social relationships and increasing that social network. Cats and Sleep Study after study have demonstrated that cat owners report they are happier, more confident, less nervous, more energetic, attentive, and less lonely. They also report they sleep and focus better than non-cat owners. Findings Here All of this could in fact be due to our sleep cycles as a cat owner. Humans function on a circadian rhythm, which is around a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle. Without going into the ins and outs of it, without a sleep drive, we struggle to fall asleep. Part of this sleep drive is the accumulation of a neurotransmitter called adenosine throughout the day. To fall asleep, we respond to the hormone melatonin, which ramps up at night, in response to light cues. In short, what our body experiences throughout the day affects how we sleep that night. This is why, if anyone ever struggles to sleep, a routine is the first thing they are told to implement. And, as any cat owner will attest, cats know exactly what time breakfast is! Even if your cat doesn’t venture into the bedroom to claw at your feet for their breakfast, one of the first thoughts to cross a pet-owners mind in the morning is the need to get up and sort the cat/s/dog/s out. Without knowing, us pet owners get into a routine, very quickly. We tend to get up at the same time most days, keeping our circadian rhythm steady. If we have better sleep hygiene, we will experience more quality sleep and therefore be more energetic throughout the day, and likely be more focussed. So inadvertently, pet ownership results in a routine which keeps our sleep on track. There is also the consideration that some owners allow their pets to sleep on the bed with
In October 2021, a well-known newspaper published an article which suggested vegan pet food is as healthy for cats and dogs as meat. A veterinary professor argued that his research showed that cats and dogs had as good, or better health outcomes on plant-based diets as they did when fed on meat products. However, what the headlines forget to mention is that he also said, this is on the proviso that these plant-based diets were carefully formulated with additional synthetic nutrients. A final note, these findings remain, at present, unpublished. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we often get asked what the best diet is for our pets, so we thought we’d look into vegan and vegetarian diets in a little more detail. The vegetarian diet involves avoiding meat, fish and poultry products, the vegan diet involves avoiding all animal products, this includes dairy and even honey. How do they suit our cats and dogs? Let’s start with the cats. No matter where you look, the jury is in – cats evolved as hunters that consume prey containing high amounts of protein, moderate amounts of fat, and minimal amounts of carbohydrates. They are obligate carnivores. Building on this definition, they are actually hyper carnivorous. They are a small carnivorous animal with a proportionally large brain. What this means is that their high brain demand for glucose could not be met by a natural prey diet, if they were to only utilise carbohydrates as glucose. So, they are really good at producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like protein and fat. This natural evolution has made them quite poor at using carbohydrates, as demonstrated by their limited amylase activity in the pancreas and small intestine (even compared to dogs). The other element to consider for the cat is the well known amino acid taurine. Cats and humans are among the few mammals whose bodies do not make taurine, and therefore must obtain it from their diet. In humans, taurine deficiency is rare because taurine is common in meat and fish food products; and so in a meat-based diet, cats also should not become deficient. In the 1970’s, Quinton R. Rogers of UC Davis showed that a taurine deficiency could cause degeneration of the retina in cat’s eyes. Kittens born to taurine deficient mothers are often blind and show many abnormalities such as impaired gait. For this reason, in the 1908’s new cat feeding guidelines were introduced, stating a minimum level for taurine in cat food. But, in later years it was also found that taurine plays a role in regulating calcium entry into heart tissue every time it beats. Researchers soon noticed that cats presenting with dilated cardiomyopathy also had low levels of taurine. When taurine was supplemented in the diet, the cats recovered. Findings Here Arachidonic acid is another nutrient required by cats that is only available from animal sources and whilst it is an omega-6 fatty acid that is often demonised, it is actually a fatty acid that is essential for health. It is involved in the proper function of the brain and muscles. It, along with it’s metabolites is also involved in immune function and therefore resistance to parasites and allergen insult. Let’s move on to the dogs. A dog is a facultative carnivore, although some describe them as an omnivore. It is this definition that many believe allows our canine companions well adapted to a vegetarian diet, but again, the dog demonstrates poor utilisation of carbohydrates unless in a high energy need (like lactation or speed work) by their limited amylase activity. A survey of 86 vegetarian dogs in Germany, Switzerland and Belgium found that over 50% of the dogs were fed diets deficient in protein, essential amino acids, calcium, zinc, and vitamins D and B12. Findings Here Why Does My Dog Need Calcium Why Zinc is Important For Your Dog The Importance of Vitamin D for Cats and Dogs Why Your Dog Needs Vitamin B12 Many suggest that correct formulation by manufacturers will negate these issues, Kanakubo and colleagues examined 13 dry and 11 canned vegetarian diets for dogs and cats that were sold in all or most of the United States. Crude protein and amino acid concentrations were compared with AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles. Minimum CP concentrations for the specified species and life stages were met by 23 diets; the remaining diet passed appropriate AAFCO feeding trials. However, 25% (6/24) diets did not meet all AA minimum requirements. Findings Here During further exploration of the companies who manufacture vegetarian diets, some even go as far as suggesting they “do not advocate the singular feeding of vegetarian or vegan diets to carnivores such as dogs and cats. … It is designed for intermittent feeding or as a base to add different meats for sensitivities and allergies” If vegetarian diets are questioned on their ability to meet the nutritional needs of pets, vegan diets go one step further and avoid all animal products in their entirety, so do they suit our pets either? The Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition published a case report of two cats in March 2021. A 2-year-old neutered Main Coon and a 1-year-old spayed domestic short hair presented to the nutrition service in France with lethargy. Dysorexia, lethargy and muscle waste was apparent and progressive weight loss occurred in follow up consultations. A macrocytic, non-regenerative anaemia with low serum folate were the main clinical features. The diet was analysed, and it was found to be a plant-based, vegan pet food. Many nutrients showed as below minimum recommendation. Folic acid supplementation improved dysorexia and with the reintroduction of animal-derived ingredients, appetite, weight, and normal mentation was restored in both cats. Case Report Here Investigations have subjected commercially available vegan cat foods to blind nutritional analyses by an independent laboratory. Data shows that many brands are deficient in taurine, methionine, and arachidonic acid, with additional brands also deficient in Lysine and Arginine. Many vegan diets are also deficient in several B
Bladder stones are exactly that, stones that form in your pet’s bladder. The more technical term is urolithiasis, which denotes the presence of uroliths in the urinary tract. These stones can develop over weeks or months, and a common question we are asked here at My Pet Nutritionist is whether dietary changes can make a difference. We thought we’d focus on what bladder stones are, the different types and whether in fact dietary management is something to consider. What Are Bladder Stones? Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections, and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are several different types of stones, and they are composed of different minerals and compounds: Struvite Calcium oxalate Urate Cystine The most common causes include: Bacteria in the urinary tract Urinary pH Minerals present in the urine Genetics Bladder inflammation Struvite Stones These stones form due to excess magnesium, ammonium and phosphorus. Normal canine urine is slightly acidic and contains waste products from metabolism. Struvite is a normal compound found in canine urine and will remain dissolved as long as the urine is acid and not too concentrated. When the urine become too concentrated or alkaline, struvite crystals form. These stones tend to form as a result of a urinary tract infection and involves an enzyme known as urease. Urease is produced by the pathogenic bacteria and breaks down urea, which is normally found in urine. In the process, excess ammonia is produced which causes the urine to become alkaline. Excess ammonia in the urine also results in bladder inflammation, contributing to the issue. These stones are generally more common in female dogs. Kidney disease, long term use of diuretic medication and PPI’s can also result in alkaline urine, predisposing the dog to struvite stones. Calcium Oxalate Stones The current line of thinking is that urine high in calcium, citrates, or oxalates and is acidic predisposes a dog to developing calcium oxalate urinary crystals and stones. Recent studies have shown diets that cause high urine acidity (urine pH less than 6.5) may predispose dogs to develop this type of bladder stone. But, like most things, there are likely other causes of calcium oxalate bladder stones too. For example, over-usage of antibiotics may reduce numbers of the intestinal bacteria Oxalobacter formigenes whose sole nutrient is oxalate. In dogs with low populations of Oxalobacter, excess oxalate is secreted in the urine, increasing the likelihood that calcium oxalate crystals and stones can form if the urine is highly concentrated or becomes acidic. Calcium oxalate uroliths are noted more commonly in male dogs and the breeds most diagnosed with both struvite and calcium oxalate bladder stones included Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Lhasa Apso, and Yorkshire Terrier. Urate Stones Urate stones are generally caused by a genetic condition in some dog breeds like Dalmatians, Jack Russel Terriers and Bulldogs. But they are also seen with liver disease, especially in dogs or cats with liver shunts. Urate stones are made from compounds called purines. Purines are one of the most common chemical compounds on the planet. There are both endogenous and exogenous. Exogenous purines are absorbed by the body through the foods eaten, and endogenous purines are made by the body itself. Purines and pyrimidines are the two families of nitrogenous base that make up nucleic acids – in short, they are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Purines have a number of functions in the body: Signalling molecule Provide energy Control cell growth Part of essential coenzymes Contribute to nervous system function (including neuronal development) As you can see, purines perform many important functions in the cell, and so the balance between its synthesis and degradation is essential. When purines are catabolised, the result is uric acid. In all other mammals, apart from humans and Dalmatians, uric acid is then converted to allantoin, which is a very soluble excretion product. For us humans and those unlucky dogs, we excrete uric acid through the kidneys (with some excreted through the gastrointestinal tract). Uric acid is suggested to behave as a potent antioxidant. It is also thought to maintain blood pressure under low salt conditions and has been seen to function as an anti-inflammatory in certain diseases, but when levels become too high, in a condition known as hyperuricemia, problems can ensue. In humans, this can result in diseases such as kidney stones and gout and may cause hypertension. In those unlucky dogs, high uric acid levels result in bladder stones. For this reason, a low purine diet is often suggested for those pets suffering urate stones. Foods High in Purines Organs/offal (brain, heart, liver, kidneys) Wild or Farmed Game Herring Mackerel Trout Sardines Sprats Legumes (such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas) Foods Lower in Purines Green leafy vegetables (except spinach) Eggs Nuts Muscle meats from chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, beef, Fruits If urate stones are associated with liver disease, you may want to learn more about liver disease in our other blogs. Liver Disease Liver Shunts Foods to Feed in Liver Disease Cystine Stones This is rarer in the dog, but it can occur. This is when bladder stones are composed of cystine crystals, and it is largely genetic. They are more commonly found in the following breeds: Mastiff Saluki Puli Basset Hound Dachshunds Findings Here Cystine is an amino acid that is freely filtered in urine and almost completely reabsorbed by the kidney tubules. Sadly, an inborn error of metabolism causes high concentrations of urinary cystine in those affected dogs. These stones also form in acidic environments and in
Being Global Prebiotic Week and something we are asked about regularly here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d explore the key differences between all those biotics! When we’re presented with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics, it’s hard to know where to start and if they even do a thing! So let’s get cracking. Prebiotics and probiotics are often thought of as one and the same, but their commonalities end with their role in the intestine. Prebiotics are fibre that feed the beneficial microorganisms residing in the intestine. Probiotics are live microorganisms that when ingested, can enhance intestinal microbial balance. Why is this important? The microbiome is an important modifier of disease and an essential component of immunity. Dysbiosis of the many microbiomes have been associated with a range of disorders. Your Puppy’s Microbiome What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis Your Pet’s Immune System So, caring for the ecosystem found in the gut is of paramount importance. Prebiotics and Gut Health The most commonly considered prebiotics are classified as soluble fibres. They were first introduced as a functional food in 1995 by Marcel Roberfroid, but in 2007 Roberfroid clarified that only two classes of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) meet the full definition of a prebiotic. These are oligofructose and inulin. Oligofructose is a 2-8–chain fructose-based saccharide molecule that undergoes fermentation in the colon, providing nourishment to the bacteria found there. Inulin is a longer 9-64–chain fructose-based saccharide that is fermented more slowly, benefiting bacteria further down in the digestive system. It can also be broken down into FOS by intestinal bacteria to provide both FOS and inulin. These 2 fibres are considered minimally digestible because of the β bond–based connections of the fructose molecules. It is thought that dogs and cats lack the intestinal enzyme needed to break down the β bond and so they usually break down α saccharide bonds. The resident bacteria can break the β bond, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) known as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. SCFA’s have a range of roles for host health including: Energy source of intestinal cells Promote gut integrity Lower colonic pH Stimulate sodium and water absorption In addition, you may also find prebiotics containing the following: Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) – from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) – found in dairy, beans and root vegetables Probiotics and Health Rather than encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing the growth of pathogenic bacteria, probiotics are thought to introduce beneficial bacteria into the environment. It is considered that the best use for these products is treatment of GI disease, such as diarrhoea and other GI abnormalities, including inflammatory bowel disease. The more we are learning about probiotic use, the more we are realising that the benefits associated are bacterial strain specific. What this means is the devil is in the detail. In addition, to function as a probiotic, the bacteria must: Survive the acid and bile in the GI tract Adhere to intestinal cells or colonise areas within the tract Exclude pathogenic adherence Produce acids, or other compounds which antagonise the growth of pathogens Be safe, non-invasive, non-carcinogenic and non-pathogenic The primary bacterial populations included in probiotics that have been seen to benefit both cats and dogs are lactic acid bacteria, especially lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and enterococci. Postbiotics and Health Postbiotics are the bioactive compounds that probiotic bacteria produce when they consume prebiotic fibre. They are technically the waste products of probiotic bacteria and SCFA’s are one kind, along with: Enzymes Cell wall fragments Metabolites like vitamins and minerals Postbiotics are a relatively new concept, but they have been associated with a range of benefits: Postbiotics like butyrate (SCFA) can stimulate the production of regulatory T cells in the intestine, supporting immune function Cell wall fragments can increase the production of anti-inflammatory chemical messengers known as cytokines that help reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses Increased levels of butyrate have been associated with improved clinical outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease How Do We Get Them? It’s easy to reach for supplements, but certain foods already possess biotic properties. Sources of Prebiotics: Mushrooms Chicory Root Garlic Asparagus Dandelion Greens Bananas Sources of Probiotics: Fermented foods contain naturally occurring probiotics; but remember that prebiotics aren’t fussy about which bacteria they feed, so they could also feed harmful bacteria and yeast. Fermented foods can also be an issue for those dogs suffering SIBO or yeast infections. Bacterial Overgrowth Is Your Dog a Yeasty Beast Supplementation may be appropriate in certain cases, but as we have noted, benefits are often strain-specific and it’s essential to read the label fully if your dog suffers with sensitivities. Does My Dog Need a Prebiotic, Probiotic or Postbiotic? We would always advocate a food first approach, so offering a fresh whole-food diet, full of variety. But in tending to the ecosystem, which is a great modifier of disease, it’s important to not only include things of benefit, but avoid things of detriment too. The issue is when the bacteria populations in the gut get a little out of whack. We need to avoid those things that can cause imbalances between the good and bad guys in the gut: Overuse of antibiotics Proton pump inhibitors Antihistamines Poor motility Digestive disorders Poor pancreatic function Inflammation in the gut Stress Environmental toxins Dietary choices Poor liver function What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis The inclusion of prebiotic foods is relatively easy to do, and either pre or probiotic supplementation may or may not be appropriate for your pet, but as you can see, it’s never as clear cut as we would like. Luckily, here at My Pet Nutritionist we look at everything that is going on for your pet and what may be compromising their health. Using this information, we develop a bespoke plan to get them on the right track. Check out our services if you would like to know more. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
When we take on a dog, we make it our life mission to keep them healthy and happy; but this isn’t always easy. In an age of information, it can get confusing what to do for the best, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d pop together the top 5 mistakes dog owners can make which compromises health. 1) Over-Vaccinating There is no doubt that vaccination has been progressive in public health concerns, for both humans and pets, but they were never meant to make the host sick. For a number of reasons, the current vaccinations schedule for our pets, is. There is increasing evidence that over-vaccination is associated with the development or aggravation of immune-mediated disorders and chronic diseases in individual pets that are genetically predisposed. This is where titre testing can be useful. A titre is a simple blood test which establishes the levels of existing antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are produced when an antigen provokes a response from the immune system. This response can be from natural exposure or a previous vaccination. A positive test indicates that the patient does have protective levels of antibodies. A negative test indicates that the patient does not have protective levels of circulating antibody. However, it is worth noting here that a negative test result does not indicate susceptibility to disease. On the whole, test correlation with protection is fair to good. Canine adenovirus, distemper virus and parvovirus all correlate well. Feline calicivirus is fair to good, whereas herpesvirus is fair. Feline parvovirus correlates well. Findings Here Titre tests are routinely used to establish the efficacy of rabies vaccination for pet travel schemes. Findings Here These outcomes particularly shine when you compare them to the suspected adverse reactions for vaccination in small animals. Findings Here Titre testing is like checking your fuel gauge before you leave home. You want to make sure you have enough fuel to get to where you need to go. Why not check your dog needs a vaccine before you actually give it? Vaccinosis: Damage Vaccinations Can Cause Your Pet 2) Not Feeding A Fresh Food Diet Dogs are facultative carnivores. This means they thrive on a meat-based diet. Every cell in the body requires energy to carry out its role. Without getting caught up in biology 101, there are a number of cycles that occur in the body to produce energy. Dogs have this nifty ability to use this process known as gluconeogenesis – this produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Dogs have a great capacity for using fat for energy. Not only do they reap the energy rewards from nutrients, but meat in it’s whole-food form contains a number of micronutrients which support body function. Why Does My Dog Need Minerals The issue with over-processed food is that it often becomes nutrient deplete during the process, and so, synthetic nutrients are added back in – makes a little more sense to offer them in their whole-food form in the first place doesn’t it? In addition, food is only as useful as its constituents; it all needs to be digested. Dogs have evolved on a whole-food diet for thousands of years, so their digestive system has figured out how to deal with it. It also makes sense to feed the system something it knows how to work its magic on doesn’t it? Why Dry Food Is Not Good For Your Pets What Is The Best Kind Of Pet Food 3) Using Toxic Chemicals in Your Home and Garden Every day, ours and our pet’s bodies are exposed to toxins. They are produced internally in the body, like lactic acid, and consist of waste products from gut microbes, hormones, and neurotransmitters. But the largest threat is possibly those external toxins, like air pollution, chemicals from cleaning products and volatile organic compounds from the plug-in air diffuser in your lounge. It is thought that in the 25 years between 1970 and 1995, the volume of synthetic organic chemicals produced tripled from about 50 million tonnes to approximately 150 million tons, and this number has grown year on year since. Findings Here Data way back in 2008 reported that dogs have perfluorochemicals in their systems 2.4 times higher than humans, and cats have fire retardant particles in their systems 23.4 times higher than humans. We can only imagine how this has panned out over recent years. The Environmental Working Group found that dogs and cats are contaminated with 48 out of 70 industrial chemicals found in plastics, food packaging, heavy metals, fire retardants and stain-proofing chemicals. In dogs, the findings established: Contamination with 11 carcinogens Contamination with 31 chemicals toxic to reproductive health Contamination with 23 neurotoxins Exposure included: Dog food bag coatings House dust Stain-proofed furniture Medications/pesticides Dog beds Carpets Plastic toys Shampoos Findings Here Check out our other blogs on how to avoid this and also ways to help! Does My Pet Need To Detox Is Your Toxic Home Affecting Your Pet 4) Overuse of Medications Whilst medications are lifesaving, there are often cases of overuse. Antibiotics are commonly inappropriately prescribed which can have long lasting effects on the health of your dog’s gut. Broad-spectrum antibiotics are exactly that – they take all the bugs (both the bad and the good). There is also the increasing concern around antibiotic resistance; this is when a microbe becomes more or fully resistant to antimicrobials which could previously treat it. For this reason, the EMA “is promoting the prudent use of antimicrobials in animals.” Source NSAIDs are also increasingly overused. During the inflammatory response, certain enzymes catalyse the production of compounds which cause pain, redness, and heat. NSAIDs work by blocking the activity of these enzymes and so inhibit the response. But these same enzymes, like many in the body don’t just carry out that role. They are also protective of the stomach mucosa for example, which means when you take out that enzyme, you also take out a layer of mucosal protection! This is why chronic
We sometimes talk about intolerances and allergies like this is the only thing that can cause your cat or dog’s itching. There can be so many reasons, layered reasons and some more serious than others. Here we explore some of the undetected and misdiagnosed reasons for your dog being itchy. Adrenal function The adrenal glands are located just in front of the kidneys. You will recognise them from when we discuss the stress response more often than not. The adrenal gland has 2 parts—the cortex and the medulla. The adrenal cortex is subdivided into 3 layers, and each layer produces a different set of steroid hormones. The outer layer produces the mineralocorticoids, which help regulate sodium and potassium salts. The middle layer produces glucocorticoids, which are involved in metabolising nutrients and reducing inflammation and immune responses. Finally, the inner layer produces sex hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, and androgens. The adrenal medulla plays an important role in response to stress or low blood sugar levels in the body. It releases adrenaline and noradrenaline, both of which increase heart rate and blood pressure, increase blood sugar and slow digestion; the hallmark responses when us or our dogs are exposed to a stress trigger. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system – which is simply a system of glands that release chemical messengers called hormones. The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function in the body. So, if there is any issue in any part of it, things can start to go wrong. The two most common ways in which adrenal glands cause health issues are by producing too little or too much of certain hormones, which leads to hormonal imbalances. Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease) due to an excess of cortisol production frequently causes dogs to itch, lose hair, have thin skin with dark pigment, drink excessively and have recurring skin problems. But this raises another point, even if there are no physiological issues with the adrenal glands, high cortisol levels due to daily stress can also lead to itchy skin! Thyroid Function We’ll continue with the hormones for a minute and look at thyroid function. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland found in the neck. One of its main functions is to produce hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism, the process that turns food into energy. This too can produce too many hormones, or too few. These conditions are known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism respectively. Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism in Cats Skin issues are regularly noted in times of thyroid dysfunction, and this includes itchiness. Kidney Function Intense itchiness often accompanies late-stage kidney disease, and whilst the jury is out on the exact reasons behind it, it is thought that it’s relating to the build up of toxins in the body. This leads us nicely into the same itchy symptoms associated with early-stage liver disease, and this is considered for similar reasons. Detoxification Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. The Liver The liver neutralises a range of toxic chemicals, both those produced internally (waste from used hormones or neurotransmitters for example) and those from the environment, like air pollution, pesticides, and food additives. It does this by filtering the blood to remove large toxins, synthesising, and secreting bile and lastly enzymatically disassembling unwanted chemicals found in the body. Liver Guard Enzymatic Detoxification This enzymatical detoxification occurs in three phases. Phase I directly neutralises chemicals and changes them into new metabolites. These are then processed by phase II enzymes. This is known as the conjugation phase, which in short, liver enzymes attach small chemicals to the toxin. There are many ways in which this is done, it all depends on the type of chemical the liver is trying to manage. Phase I results in high levels of reactive oxygen species so antioxidant levels are key in modulating potential damage. Phase II is nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron are essential. Phase III is the elimination phase. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. The kidneys will also filter and process toxins from circulation, excreting them as urine. The skin also forms as an elimination pathway. This is why detoxification issues can result in skin issues. In cases of liver disease, it is considered that bile salt deposits under the skin, which results in itchiness. The most important thing to do to support detoxification is to avoid exposure in the first place, so consider how much you and your dog are exposed to: Pesticides Heavy smoke Phthalates Mould Medications like steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers Heavy metals Cleaning products Air fresheners Eating foods cooked at high temperatures (most commercial dry foods) This list is not exhaustive, but it is a place to start. This mechanism also applies to vaccines. There is increasing evidence that over-vaccination is associated with the development or aggravation of immune-mediated disorders and chronic diseases in individual pets that are genetically predisposed. The primary role of the immune system in dogs is to protect against foreign invaders, or abnormal cells that invade or attack. The immune system must distinguish between self and non-self. Substances that stimulate a response are antigens. These can be contained within bacteria, viruses or microorganisms or cancer cells. They may also exist on their own, like pollen or food particles. There are three lines of defence, physical barriers, nonspecific immunity, and specific immunity. But the immune system does not always function properly, it can be underactive and overactive. An underactive system puts the animal at risk of infection, but an overactive immune system can attack parts of its body that it misidentifies as being foreign. This is what happens in autoimmune conditions. The immune system can also overreact
Sadly, anxiety is as common in dogs as it is in humans. Anxiety is the body’s normal response to stress; the problem is that our stress response hasn’t evolved with modern life and both us and our dogs often feel overwhelmed. A stressful situation can bring about a whole cascade of biological responses and it all starts in the brain. When someone confronts an oncoming danger, the eyes or ears, or both (and parts of the peripheral nervous system) send the information to the amygdala, which is the area of the brain that deals with emotions. The amygdala interprets the images and sounds and sends a message to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is like the command centre. It communicates with the rest of the body through the autonomic nervous system, which controls such involuntary body functions like breathing, blood pressure and heartbeat. It also controls the dilation or constriction of key blood vessels and small airways in the lungs called bronchioles. The autonomic nervous system is further split into two branches, the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system functions like a gas pedal in a car and it triggers the fight-or-flight response. The parasympathetic nervous system is like the brake pedal; it slows everything back down and returns the body to homeostasis, or as we know it, rest and digest. In cases of anxiety, the sympathetic nervous system remains activated, it’s a form of chronic stress. So, when tackling anxiety, we need to take the paw off the gas pedal, and firmly place it on the brake. It goes without saying that removing the trigger that causes the stress or anxiety is of paramount importance, but in many cases, like on bonfire night, we can’t remove it in its entirety. In cases of separation anxiety too, we often want to take the edge off the response in order to work through a behavioural programme. 1) Thunder Jackets These jackets work under the premise that applied pressure calms nervous system function and many owners report success. A study in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour explored a range of methods for managing firework fear in dogs with the following efficacy: Pressure jackets 44% Counterconditioning 70% Relaxation training 69% Noise CDs 55% 2) Chamomile Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is one of the most widely used herbal remedies in the world. While there are many varieties of chamomile, Roman (A. nobilis) and German (M. recutita) are the most widely used forms. These are members of the Compositae (Asteracae) family. German chamomile is considered the more potent and is most widely used. It has many medicinal uses including carminative (anti-colic), antiseptic, and anxiolytic. Chamomile is notorious for its continuous bloom! Chamomile serves as a safe, general purpose calming herb that doesn’t taste too shabby either. In human tests it has been effective in mild to moderate generalized anxiety disorder. Findings Here It can be served as a tea, but is also available as an oil infusion, tincture, salve and ointment. 3) Valerian Many will recognise valerian for its similar smell to old, dirty socks! Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is commonly used for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders in humans. It has a mechanism of action similar to benzodiazepines; however, instead of binding to the gamma subunit like a benzodiazepine, it appears to bind to the beta subunit on the GABA-A receptor instead. Regardless, it has the same effect on chloride movement into the neuron when the major inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, binds to the GABA-A receptor, thereby causing a hyperpolarized state. In addition, valerian has also been shown to decrease the removal or metabolism of GABA, thereby allowing GABA to stay around longer and do it’s thing. And as we know, GABA is the brake like neurotransmitter in the body. Findings Here Valerian is available in tincture, tea and fresh or dried root. 4) Skullcap Another herb used for insomnia in humans, it has a similar mechanism of action to Valerian. Skullcap too is thought to be GABAergic. But it is also thought to have an effect on serotonin receptors, which is why it has reported sedative and relaxing effects. A small, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study of 43 human participants demonstrated that skullcap reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in some individuals without causing an observable reduction in energy or cognition. In both cats and dogs, skullcap has been effective in generous nervousness and excitability and in any condition where there is oversensitivity in the nervous system. Skullcap is usually found in dried herb or tincture form. 5) St John’s Wort St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herbal medication that consists of anthraquinones, which have displayed anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. It has also been used as an antidepressant in humans. It derives from a flowering plant found in Europe and Asia. It is usually found in capsule, tea, or liquid extract. It is thought that St. John’s Wort acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. This works to reduce the uptake of serotonin at neuronal synapses, as well as dopamine and norepinephrine. One of the primary adverse effects is the risk of an increase in serotonin when combined with certain antidepressants and the inhibition of monoamine oxidase. Be cautious of signs including tachycardia, increased blood pressure and mydriasis. There may also be a fever. It is however, often used in dogs with fear-based or separation anxiety. A great product for anxiety is our Calming Complex Calm Complex The introduction of any new supplement or herb is always done best under the guidance of a practitioner. If your dog suffers with anxiety, it’s crucial to work within a behaviour programme to tackle key triggers. However, there can also be a multi-modal approach and our services may be of use. Please take a look under our “what we offer” tab! Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
In a previous My Pet Nutritionist blog we looked at the function of the urinary system; if you missed it, you can check it out! As you will know, any system that is compromised, results in a range of signs and symptoms. Kidney disease or compromise ideally needs the support of knowledgeable practitioner, but there are many of us who simply want to get our pets off to the best start and support their health before things go rogue. So, we thought we’d do a one stop shop of nutrients that are particularly helpful for supporting general kidney health. B Vitamins Along with vitamin C, the B vits are water soluble and there are eight of them: B1 Thiamin B2 Riboflavin B3 Niacin B5 Pantothenic Acid B6 Pyridoxine B7 Biotin B9 Folate B12 Cobalamin These vitamins are involved in many functions as they help a variety of enzymes do their jobs – they help release energy from macronutrients and they help transport oxygen and energy containing nutrients around the body. B1 is involved in energy metabolism – it helps our dogs turn what they eat into energy. It also plays a role in nervous system function. In addition is helps metabolise certain neurotransmitters which as we know are chemical messages that are sent between the body and brain! Finally, B1 is involved in the synthesis of collagen and other proteins which contributes to structural health and wound healing. B2 or riboflavin is involved in energy production, and it is a cofactor of the master antioxidant glutathione, therefore adequate intake is essential to antioxidant capacities. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants B3 is necessary in the biosynthesis of fatty acids and also in energy production. It is essential for skin health, mucous membrane integrity and digestive and nervous system health. In addition, B3 is involved in DNA replication and repair, blood sugar regulation and also functions as an antioxidant. B5 is involved in energy production, the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, steroid hormones and also vitamins A and D. It is essential in protein and amino acid synthesis along with the formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine which is the chief of the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest side of the stress response). Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the production of protein compounds (like haemoglobin), cells of the immune system, hormones, neurotransmitters, RNA, DNA and many enzymes. It is also involved in the manufacture of prostaglandins, which are produced at the site of injury or infection, largely controlling the inflammatory response. Vitamin B6 also activates the release of glycogen from the liver and muscles, for this reason it is essential to physical activity (and gets depleted in times of high demand). It also helps balance sodium and potassium which in turn, regulates bodily fluids and promotes the normal functioning of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. Known as Vitamin H, for Haar and Haut (hair and skin), we know it more commonly as vitamin B7, or Biotin. This vitamin too helps the body convert food into energy; specifically, biotin is involved in gluconeogenesis, which as we know is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Biotin is also involved in fatty acid synthesis, which is important in energy metabolism but also key in skin health. Deficiency of biotin has been associated with immune depression and reduced collagen synthesis. Findings Here Of interest, the use of antibiotics decreases the bacterial population of the large intestine which increase the dietary requirement for biotin. Rancid fats also inactive biotin along with chlorine. Good dietary sources of B7 include liver, eggs, salmon, sardines, mushrooms. B9 is essential in growing and dividing cells. A lack of folate has the most impact on those rapidly dividing cells like those in the digestive system, the genital tract and of course red blood cells. B9 is key in the synthesis of structural and functional proteins, and the formation of the master antioxidant, glutathione, is indirectly dependent on folate. And finally, vitamin B12 is essential for DNA and RNA synthesis and for cellular energy production. All cells in all bodies need to know what they are doing, and they need energy to do them; B12 ensures this occurs. There are no known naturally occurring bioactive forms of B12 in plant sources. This is because B12 is synthesised by the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, and then absorbed by the host animals. B12 is concentrated in their tissues, which is then eaten by other animals. Sources of B12 include red meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. Why Your Dog Needs B12 You can ensure a fresh food diet, rich in these B Vitamins, or with the guidance of a practitioner, consider supplementation in methylated form. Coenzyme Q10 Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10) is an essential compound of the body which is synthesized in the mitochondrial inner membrane. It has many important functions in the body. Firstly, it can be named the key-component of electron transport chain in mitochondria necessary for ATP production and secondly, it can act as an intercellular antioxidant. In the body, COQ10 is found in all systems of organs. The highest concentration of ubiquinone is noted in the tissues of the heart, liver, muscles and you guessed it, kidneys! In poor kidney function, levels of COQ10 are often depressed, and much research has indicated that COQ10 may have favourable effects on cardiac function, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease. Findings Here Cordyceps Cordyceps cicadae, a caterpillar-shaped medicinal mushroom that derives its nutrients from larvae of Cicada flammata Dist., has been utilized in Chinese herbal medicine for thousands of years. All Cordyceps species are endoparasitoids, living mainly on insects and other arthropods. It has been well evidence that the use of cordyceps has demonstrated beneficial effects in decreasing the progression of end-stage kidney disease. Findings Here it is largely thought this is due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant properties. But that doesn’t mean we have to wait
One of the common issues we are asked about here at My Pet Nutritionist is kidney and urinary health. Our blog on urinary tract issues can be found. Here But we thought we’d go back to basics and look at the role of the urinary system and why supporting its function is important to overall health. The Urinary System As body cells carry out metabolic activities, they consume oxygen and nutrients. During this process, waste products are made. These waste products must be eliminated from the body because if they are left to accumulate, they can become toxic. As the respiratory system eliminates carbon dioxide, the urinary system picks up the remainder of the waste products. But this is not the only function of the urinary system, so let’s take a look. This system consists of: Two ureters, One urinary bladder, One urethra. The kidneys filter the blood of wastes and excretes them into urine. Once formed, urine passes through the ureters and is stored in the urinary bladder. It is then excreted through the urethra. Functions of the Kidneys Excretion of wastes: By forming urine, the kidneys help excrete waste from the body. Some of these are a result of metabolic processes, like urea and ammonia, which is as a result of the deamination of amino acids. It also includes creatinine which is a result of breaking down creatine phosphate. Finally, it includes uric acid from the catabolism of nucleic acids. These compounds are all known as nitrogenous wastes as they are wastes that contain nitrogen. The remainder of wastes are foreign substances that have entered the body, like medications and environmental toxins. Regulation of blood composition: The kidneys help regulate the blood levels of several ions including sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and phosphate. This is achieved by controlling the excretion of said ions into urine. Regulation of blood pH Regulation of blood volume: The kidneys adjust blood volume by conserving or eliminating water in the urine. An increase in blood volume increases blood pressure and a decrease in blood volume decreases blood pressure. Regulation of blood pressure: The kidneys secrete the enzyme renin which activates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway. Increased renin increases blood pressure. Production of hormones: The kidneys produce two hormones, calcitriol helps regulate calcium homeostasis and erythropoietin stimulates the production of red blood cells. Regulation of blood glucose level: Live the liver, the kidneys can use certain amino acids like glutamine in gluconeogenesis, which is the production of new glucose molecules. The Contributions of The Urinary System for All Body Systems Skeletal System The kidneys help adjust levels of blood calcium and phosphates needed for building extracellular bone matrix. Muscular System The kidneys help adjust calcium levels for contraction of muscle. Nervous System Through the process of gluconeogenesis, the kidneys provide glucose for ATP production in neurons, especially during fasting or starvation. Endocrine System The kidneys participate in the synthesis of calcitriol, the active form of Vitamin D. They also release erythropoietin which is the hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Cardiovascular System As noted previously, the kidneys play a key role in the regulation of blood volume, pressure and composition. Lymphatic System and Immune Function By increasing or decreasing their reabsorption of water filtered from blood, kidneys help adjust volume of interstitial fluid and lymph. Urine also flushes microbes out of the urethra. Respiratory System The kidneys and lungs cooperate by adjusting pH of body fluids. Digestive System As we have mentioned, the kidneys synthesise calcitriol which is the active form of vitamin D. This is necessary for the absorption of dietary calcium. Evaluation of Kidney Function As you have gathered, the kidneys play a pretty important role in the body, and there are a number of ways we check how well they are doing it. The blood urea nitrogen test measures the amount of urea in a sample of blood. Urea is a waste product of the breakdown of protein. When glomerular filtration rate (how much blood is filtered) decreases severely in the case of renal disease or obstruction in the urinary tract, BUN rises steeply. The other test that is often used is to measure plasma creatinine. This is the result of the catabolism of creatine phosphate in skeletal muscle. Normally the creatinine levels remain steady, because the rate of excretion in the urine remains equal to its discharge from muscle, but high creatinine levels can indicate poor renal function. Renal plasma clearance is a test which establishes how effective the kidneys are at removing a given substance from blood plasma. Urine Water accounts for around 95% of the total volume of urine. The remaining 5% consists of: Electrolytes Solutes derived from cellular metabolism Exogenous compounds (like medications) Typical constitutes of urine include: Filtered and secreted electrolytes Urea Creatinine Uric acid Urobilinogen Small amounts of fatty acids, pigments, enzymes, and hormones If disease alters body metabolism or kidney function, traces of substances not normally present may appear in the urine, or normal constituents may appear in abnormal amounts. For example: Albumin: a normal constituent of plasma, it usually appears in small amounts in urine. The presence of excess albumin indicates increased permeability of kidney filtration membranes due to injury or disease, increased blood pressure, or irritation of kidney cells by substances like bacterial toxins or heavy metals. Glucose: presence in the urine usually indicates diabetes but it can also be a result of stress (causing excess epinephrine secretion – epinephrine stimulates the breakdown of glycogen and liberation of glucose from the liver). Red blood cells: this usually indicates a pathological condition. One cause is acute inflammation or urinary organs due to disease or irritation from kidney stones. Ketone bodies: high levels of ketone bodies in urine may indicate diabetes, anorexia, or starvation. Bilirubin: when red blood cells are destroyed by macrophages, the globin portion of haemoglobin is split off and haem is converted to biliverdin, this is then converted to bilirubin which gives bile its pigmentation. Microbes: these will be
In our last blog we considered the importance of minerals for your dog’s health, but we only got so far. There are further minerals, ones we deem trace minerals, which are also important to optimal health. So, let’s get cracking. Chromium Within human realms, chromium is mostly talked about for its role in modulating blood glucose levels. It is considered that chromium acts as a cofactor that can enhance the effects of insulin on target tissues. In states of chromium deficiency, abnormal glucose utilisation results along with increased insulin demands. Findings Here Along with potentiating the action of insulin, chromium increases uptake of amino acids into muscle, heart, and liver and enhances protein synthesis. It also plays a role in regulating blood lipids. Increased Risk of Deficiency: Diets high in sugars and refined carbohydrates (results in increased urinary excretion of chromium) Increased stress (physical activity, infection, trauma or illness) Pregnancy Ageing Sources of Chromium: Broccoli Turkey Chicken Brewer’s Yeast Cobalt One of the things you may not have realised about Cobalt is that it is an integral part of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin – get it?). Why Your Dog Needs Vitamin B12 Cobalt is therefore essential for the function of cells. It is involved in the production of red blood cells and the production of antibacterial and antiviral compounds that prevent infections. This mineral plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates as well as the synthesis of proteins and conversion of folate in their active form. In the nervous system, cobalt also plays a role in the prevention of demyelination, which is a condition that results in damage to the membrane that covers the nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This ensures efficient nerve transmission. Copper Copper has a number of functions throughout the body including: Energy production in mitochondria Mobilisation and transfer or iron from storage sites to the bone marrow Synthesis of collagen and elastin in connective tissue Acts as an antioxidant (as zinc/copper superoxide dismutase) Supports synthesis of melanin in the skin Synthesis of adrenaline and noradrenaline in the nervous system Breakdown of serotonin, histamine and dopamine Increased Risk of Deficiency: High intakes of supplemental iron, molybdenum, or zinc Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (acid reducers) Gastrointestinal disorders (chronic diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease) Increased levels of oxidative stress (air pollution, toxin exposure) Signs of Deficiency: Anaemia Increased vulnerability to oxidative damage Reduced immune responses Abnormal skeletal growth Changes and loss of hair and skin pigmentation Lethargy Excessive copper build-up in the liver can cause liver disease in some dogs. Common breeds of dog that are affected include Bedlington terriers, Labrador retrievers, and Dalmatians. There are clear genetic implications found in Bedlington Terriers which prevents normal copper excretion. Three forms of the disease occur: (i) asymptomatic – in which signs are yet to develop, (ii) acute -seen in dogs up to six years of age, with the sudden onset of severe illness shown as depression, anorexia (not eating) vomiting and possibly jaundice (yellowing of mucous membranes, whites of eyes and skin), and (iii) chronic – seen in middle-aged dogs with signs of chronic liver damage and sometimes failure which may show vomiting, weight loss, jaundice and abdominal swelling. It is considered that many commercial dog foods report total copper levels as higher than recommended, and some home-made diets may not furnish adequate amounts of copper. Findings Here That said, data indicates that copper absorption is greater when diets are animal protein rather than plant protein. Findings Here Iodine An essential mineral, iodine is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones that control many functions in the body including growth and development. If you would like to learn more about the thyroid gland and the conditions that often affect it, check out our blogs here: Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism in Cats Iodine can only be obtained from diet or in supplemental form. Of interest, concurrent deficiencies in selenium, iron or vitamin A may exacerbate the effects of iodine deficiency. Seaweed like wakame are rich in iodine, but other sources include eggs and poultry. Iron Functions: Oxygen transport Oxygen storage as myoglobin Energy production Cofactor for multiple enzymes Production of neurotransmitters and thyroid hormone There are two sources of iron, haem, and non-haem. Haem is found primarily in meat and meat products where non-haem is found in plants. Haem is generally well-absorbed, whereas non-haem absorption is largely affected by other factors. Common inhibitors of iron absorption are phytates, tannins, starch, and proton pump inhibitors. The body has three unique mechanisms for maintaining iron balance and preventing deficiency and overload: Storage of iron Reutilisation of iron Regulation of iron absorption Iron from food is mainly absorbed in the duodenum. Iron can be in ferrous state (Fe2+) or ferric state (Fe3+). Fe3+ is not directly absorbed, but Fe2+ is easily absorbed. In the intestine, Fe3+ is converted by ferric reductases into Fe2+. When required by the body, iron is transported by transferrin to bone marrow and other tissues. Iron is required for the transport of oxygen, oxygen storage in muscle and is also a component of energy production. After absorption, any iron that isn’t needed, is stored as ferritin in the liver, spleen, or bone marrow. During times of high need, iron is then released. Most of the iron in the body is contained within red blood cells. Red blood cells have been noted to have a life span of around 110-120 days but when they reach the end of their life span, they release iron. The resultant liberated iron can be reused to produce new erythrocytes in bone marrow, stored as ferritin or released back into systemic circulation. Iron deficiency anaemia is the common condition associated with decreased iron levels, resulting in low circulating haemoglobin and reduced myoglobin. Iron deficiency is also associated with lower T and B lymphocyte, macrophage, and neutrophil function. Your Pet’s Immune System On the other side of the scale, iron toxicity is generally associated with supplementation. At a
If you have been following any nutrition nerds (including us here at My Pet Nutritionist) then you will have likely come across the terms macro and micronutrients. We tend to reference them more commonly in the human realms, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t also apply to our canine companions (and feline for that matter). When we mention macronutrients we are referencing those needed in larger amounts in the body and they encompass protein, fat and carbohydrates. When we consider micronutrients we are looking at vitamins and minerals. Despite them being needed in micro amounts, they are still biologically necessary to all functions in the body. So, let’s take a look at minerals in a little more detail and see why your dog needs them. What is a Mineral? A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic solid, with a definite chemical composition, and an ordered atomic arrangement. What on earth does this mean we hear you wonder? Well, let’s break it down. Minerals are naturally occurring, meaning they are not made by humans. They are inorganic, meaning they have never been alive. They are solid, meaning they are not liquid or gas. Each of them has a unique structure and arrangement which is how we know what they are. For the dog we are interested in 17 essential minerals. We have macrominerals which are needed in larger amounts and trace minerals which are needed in smaller amounts. Macrominerals Calcium You’ll likely be familiar with calcium as you were probably told to drink your milk so you would have strong teeth and bones. Calcium is the main structural component of skeleton and teeth, but it also plays a role in blood clotting. In addition, it is involved in the intracellular messaging triggering the contraction of muscle fibres. Calcium also plays a role in fat oxidation and it carries ATP (energy) with magnesium. There is an increased risk of deficiency in: Diets containing large quantities of phosphorus and sodium. Fat malabsorption (fat binds calcium, reducing absorption). Vitamin D deficiency. Diets containing large quantities of oxalates. Signs of Deficiency: Poor bone mineralisation, Muscle cramping and spasm, Increased irritability of nerve cells, Abnormal blood clotting and increased bleeding after trauma. Chloride Chloride is one of the most important electrolytes found in the blood. It plays a key role in controlling the amount of water and type of compounds that go in and out of cells. It therefore plays a crucial role in homeostasis. Chloride also contributes to muscle function and this includes the heart. This mineral helps red blood cells exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide too! Lastly, chloride supports digestive processes through its role in the production and release of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, and as we know, without this, foods won’t be properly digested and subsequently absorbed. Low levels of chloride are usually found alongside existing health issues which result in electrolyte imbalances. Sources of Chloride: Himalayan Salt Seaweed Magnesium Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have a thing about Magnesium, for good reason. If you want to know more about this trusty mineral, then check out our full blog here: Why Is Magnesium So Important to Your Pet But the one often forgotten role of magnesium is the part it plays in energy, so we’ll do a recap. The bottom line is that insufficient micronutrient intake results in poor ATP production in the mitochondria. Remember that ATP is the currency of energy and the mitochondria is the powerplant of the cell, where it all happens. Magnesium and copper are star minerals for making ATP and without enough ATP or energy, the body hasn’t got enough resources to do what it needs to! In addition, a deficiency in magnesium can lead to mitochondrial damage. Signs and Symptoms of Deficiency: Muscle cramps and spasms Anorexia, nausea, vomiting Arrythmias Sodium and water retention Impaired action of vitamin D Increased Risk of Deficiency: Diets emphasizing processed foods and refined grains (largely nutrient deplete) Strenuous training Periods of rapid growth Intestinal malabsorption Medications (diuretics, steroids, laxatives) As a note, magnesium deficiency has also been linked to increased inflammatory cytokines, so this is a consideration to make in any chronic inflammatory condition. Findings Here Phosphorus Phosphorus in mainly used for the growth and repair of body tissues – it is a component part of bones, teeth, RNA and DNA. In the form of phospholipids, phosphorus is also a component of cell membrane structure and of the body’s key energy source, ATP. Many proteins and sugars in the body are phosphorylated. In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage. A range of foods contain phosphorus, mainly in the form of phosphates and phosphate esters. Phosphorus in seeds for example, is in the form of phytic acid, the storage form of phosphorus. Because many species intestines lack the phytase enzyme, much phosphorus in this form is unavailable for absorption. Low phosphorus levels in the body can include anorexia, anaemia, proximal muscle weakness, skeletal effects (bone pain, rickets, and osteomalacia), increased infection risk, ataxia, and confusion. But in most cases, hypophosphatemia (low phosphorus) is caused by existing health conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, kidney disorders, and diabetic ketoacidosis. In cases of chronic kidney disease, their ability to excrete phosphorus becomes compromised. This is why low phosphorus diets are often recommended. Kidney Disease Potassium Another electrolyte, potassium is also involved in energy production and membrane excitability and transport. Throughout the body there are a number of functions that are potassium dependent. If potassium is deficient, these enzymes or proteins are unable to carry out their job as they should. For example, one heat shock cognate protein, involved in protein folding, autophagy, apoptosis and cell stability requires potassium to carry out these functions. In a deficit, cell senescence results, along with DNA damage, carcinogenesis, and neurodegeneration. Findings Here The bottom line is that potassium helps nerves and muscles to function correctly, it maintains a
