When we talk about nutrition we tend to focus on the protein and fat requirements of our pets (the carbohydrate requirement gets us all a little hot under the collar) and it stands to reason because they are macronutrients. What this means is that they are required in larger quantities for optimal bodily function. But we also have micronutrients, and despite them being required in lower quantities, they are still critical to health. Under the umbrella of micronutrients, we have vitamins and minerals. We have some helpful blogs on minerals here: Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part One Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part Two But, as vitamins are just as important, here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d pop together a blog on why our dogs need them too! What Are Vitamins? Vitamins are defined by their physical and physiological characteristics. Vitamins are needed in minute quantities to function as essential enzymes, enzyme precursors or coenzymes in many of the bodies metabolic processes. Generally, vitamins are not synthesised by the body and must therefore be provided by food (but our canine companions have a trick up their sleeve with vitamin C for example). Fat vs. Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamins are split into fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins. In this blog, we will focus on the fat-soluble vitamins, with the water-soluble vitamins to follow. Fat soluble vitamins can be stored in the body’s lipid deposits, making them more resistant to deficiency but also more likely to result in toxicity. Fat soluble vitamins require bile salts and fat to form micelles for absorption. They are then passively absorbed through the lacteals (the lymphatic vessels of the small intestine which absorb digested fats), usually in the duodenum and ileum and transported with chylomicrons to the liver via the lymphatic system. Synthetic and naturally made vitamins are used in the body in the same way but they do have different availabilities. The Fat-Soluble Vitamins Vitamin A Vitamin A is the term which describes several compounds which biologically, have the activity of the parent compound retinol. This form of the vitamin and its derivatives are found only in animal tissues, whereas plants contain precursors in the form of the carotenoids. These are the yellow/orange pigments found in carrots and many other vegetables. The most widely abundant precursor of vitamin A is carotene, and most animals can convert this into the vitamin itself. The well-known function of vitamin A is its role in vision. Vitamin A is a precursor of rhodopsin, the photopigment found in rods within the retina of the eye that helps us and our pets to see at night. One manifestation of vitamin A deficiency is slow, dark adaptation progressing to night blindness. Vitamin A is also part of the bone formation and bone resorption equation. It influences both osteoblast and osteoclast function. Much data is now suggesting higher vitamin A levels are associated with lower bone density so balancing levels is essential. Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining healthy endothelial cells which are those lining the body’s interior surfaces. As we know, in the gut, they play a role controlling the passage of antigens and commensal gut microbiota from the intestine into the bloodstream. Another key role of Vitamin A is supporting immune function. It helps make white blood cells which circulate in the body, searching for foreign invaders and cell irregularities. Sources of Vitamin A: Carotenoids: sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, yellow/orange/red fruits/vegetables. Retinoids: animal meat; liver, fish oil. Vitamin D Vitamin D is actually a hormone that promotes calcium absorption. In human health, you will have heard it referenced as the sunshine vitamin as it is produced in the skin in response to sunlight (UV) exposure. Unlike herbivores and omnivores, cats and dogs are unable to synthesize Vitamin D adequately in the skin. There is no seasonal change in concentrations and studies have shown that when fed a diet deficient in Vitamin D, puppies develop rickets which could not be prevented by exposure to UVB light. Findings Here This means that cats and dogs are dependent on dietary sources of Vitamin D. There are two forms of Vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol which occurs in plants and Vitamin D3, known as cholecalciferol, is created in the skin during exposure to UV light and occurs in animals. Cholecalciferol (D3) is of greatest nutritional importance to both cats and dogs and luckily it can be obtained from the consumption of animal products that contain it. Once vitamin D3 is formed in the skin (of animals who can do so), it binds and is then either stored or transported to the liver. Both D2 and D3 are biologically inactive and must undergo two more steps to be activated. This involves both the liver and the kidneys. Vitamin D plays an indirect role in bone health by managing calcium levels in the body. It controls absorption of calcium in the intestine and the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. If Vitamin D levels are low, then the intestines struggle to absorb calcium. Vitamin D is also vital in immune function. We find vitamin D receptors on a range of immune cells, meaning there needs to be sufficient levels of it in the body for the cells to do their job. Vitamin D can help modulate inflammatory responses and is also required to produce natural killer cells which are known for killing virally infective cells. Findings Here The Importance of Vitamin D for Cats and Dogs Vitamin E Vitamin E includes several compounds, of which the most biologically active and widely distributed is alpha tocopherol. Vitamin E functions as an important antioxidant within cells, protecting lipids, particularly the polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes against oxidative damage caused by free radicals and active forms of oxygen that may be generated during metabolic processes. The dietary requirement for vitamin E is influenced by the intake of selenium because of its role in glutathione
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we describe the liver as the powerhouse, simply because it has so many jobs. For this reason, when it’s feeling a little under the weather, the ramifications can be widespread. What is it they say, prevention is better than cure? With this in mind, are there foods we can include in our pet’s diet that can support liver health? Of course! Certain wholefoods contain a range of nutrients which can support our dog’s whole health, so here are a few of our favourite foods to support liver health. 1) Blueberries Almost all chronic liver disease is under the background of elevated oxidative stress. This occurs when the number of free radicals found in the body outweighs its ability to cope with them. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals. This versatile berry contains anthocyanins which function as antioxidants which been seen to protect the liver from oxidative stress. Studies have found that in the livers of rats, such protective compounds found in fruits like blueberries slowed the development of scar tissue and may be useful in the prevention of hepatic fibrosis. Other fruits rich in antioxidants include: Cranberries Raspberries Strawberries Mango, Watermelon Blackberries 2) Leafy Green Vegetables (kale, spinach etc.) Not only does this family of vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits, but they also have the added ability of increasing the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes. 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. Detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our dog’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phases I and II are particularly nutrient demanding, and it goes without saying that the higher the burden on the phases (the more toxins our dogs are exposed to), the higher the nutrient requirement again. Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential and this is where our trusty greens come in. In leafy greens you get substantial amounts of vitamins such as A, C, K, and many of the B’s including folate (B9), plus minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. You’ll also find lots of fibre made up of complex carbohydrates, and antioxidant phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. 3) Fatty Fish (mackerel, tuna, sardines etc.) Consuming fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly can help modulate inflammation and it is this mechanism that is crucial to so many health issues in both us and our dogs. Inflammation is a normal response of the body to protect tissues from infection, injury, or disease. The inflammatory response begins with the production and release of chemical agents by cells in the infected, injured, or diseased tissue. These agents cause redness, swelling, pain, heat, and loss of function. Inflamed tissues generate additional signals that recruit leukocytes to the site of inflammation. Leukocytes destroy any infective or injurious agent and remove cellular debris from damaged tissue. This inflammatory response usually promotes healing but, if uncontrolled, may become harmful. Acute inflammation typically lasts only a few days. If a wound gets hot, turns red, hurts, and swells, we recognize that inflammation is at work. In this instance, inflammation is a beneficial process, serving to immobilize the area of injury as the rest of the immune system mobilizes to heal. In contrast, chronic inflammation lasts weeks, months or even indefinitely and causes tissue damage, and this too can occur in the liver. In chronic inflammation, the inflammation becomes the problem rather than the solution. Chronically inflamed tissues continue to generate signals that request help from leukocytes in the bloodstream. When leukocytes reach the tissue, they bring inflammation to the party. This chronic inflammatory response can break down healthy tissue in a misdirected attempt at repair and healing. Inflammation and Fatty Acids Arachidonic acid is an omega-6 acid that is involved in the synthesis of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids play an important role in the body, they modulate many processes including reproduction, blood pressure, haemostasis and of course inflammation. The issue occurs when there are too many. This is why we are particularly interested in balancing out our omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Many commercial foods come in higher on the omega 6 front, and so we really need to be adding some wonderful omega 3’s to the bowl (in the form of oily fish). Not only this, but omega-3 fatty acids inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces the prostaglandin hormones that spark inflammation. The action is similar to what happens when NSAIDs are ingested which also disrupts the COX-2 signalling pathway, reducing inflammation. The inclusion of omega 3’s in your dog’s diets is beneficial to whole body health, not just liver health. Essential Fats for My Dog’s Diet 4) Eggs Eggs are sources of choline, and this nutrient is particularly useful to the liver. Most choline is metabolized in the liver where it is converted into phosphatidylcholine, which assists in building fat-carrying proteins and breaking down cholesterol. True choline deficiencies have regularly been linked to liver disease. Whilst eggs are a good source, you will also find choline in beef, beef liver, chicken, fish, shiitake mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts. If you would like to learn more about the nutrients to support liver health in your dog, check out our blog here: Foods to Feed in Liver Disease And if you would like to learn more about conditions that can affect your dog’s liver, check out our blog here: Natural Guide to Liver Disease If you are concerned about your dog’s health and would like to speak with us, then please check out our services. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we often describe the liver as the body’s powerhouse, and there are some very good reasons for this. When it goes wrong it can go very wrong, but for us to understand why, we first need to know the function of the liver. So here it is, our brief guide to liver function in pets. What is the Liver? The liver is one of the largest organs in the body. It has some super metabolic functions. It converts the nutrients in the diet into substances that the body can use, stores these substances, and supplies cells with them when needed. In addition, it also takes up toxic substances and converts them into harmless substances or makes sure they are released from the body. Liver tissue is made up of lots of smaller units of liver cells called lobules. Many canals carrying blood and bile run between the liver cells. Blood coming from digestive organs flows through the portal vein to the liver, carrying nutrients, medication, and also toxic substances. Once they reach the liver, these substances are processed, stored, altered, detoxified, and passed back into the blood or released in the bowel to be eliminated. In this way, for us humans the liver can remove alcohol from our blood and for both us and our pets, it can get rid of by-products from the breakdown of medications. With the help of vitamin K, the liver produces proteins that are important in blood clotting. It is also one of the organs that break down old or damaged blood cells. Main Functions of The Liver Metabolic Processes In fat metabolism the liver cells break down fats to produce energy. Liver cells produce bile which helps the small intestine break down and absorb fats, cholesterol, and those fat soluble vitamins. Bile consists of bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water. In carbohydrate metabolism, the liver helps to ensure that the level of sugar found in the blood (blood glucose) stays constant. If blood sugar levels increase, for example after a meal, the liver removes sugar from blood supplied by the portal vein and stores it in the form of glycogen. If blood sugar levels are too low, the liver breaks down glycogen and releases sugar into the blood. In the metabolism of protein, liver cells change amino acids in foods so they can be used around the body, or to produce energy. Ammonia is the by-product of this process, and the liver converts ammonia to a less toxic product known as urea. This is released into the blood and then transported to the kidneys to pass out of the body in urine. Liver Guard Absorbing and Metabolising Bilirubin Bilirubin is an orange-yellow pigment, a waste product primarily produced by the normal breakdown of haem, which is a component of a protein called haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is found in red blood cells and gives them their characteristic red colour and is used to carry oxygen round the body. Bilirubin is ultimately processed by the liver to allow its elimination from the body. High levels of bilirubin can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes and can be harmful to the body. Supporting Blood Clots Vitamin K is necessary for the creation of coagulants that help clot the blood. Bile is essential for vitamin K absorption and is created in the liver. If the liver does not produce enough bile, clotting factors cannot be produced. Vitamin and Mineral Storage The liver stores vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12. The liver stores iron from haemoglobin in the form of ferritin, ready to make new red blood cells. The liver also stores and releases copper (which is why copper toxicity in dogs is associated with liver failure). Filters the Blood The liver filters and removes compounds from the body, this includes those synthesised in the body like hormones and also those from outside of the body, like medication. Whilst we describe the liver as a powerhouse, we don’t want to overburden it. This is why looking at environmental exposure of harmful compounds is crucial to supporting our pet’s health. Does My Pet Need to Detox Immunological Function The liver is part of the mononuclear phagocyte system. It contains high numbers of Kupffer cells that are involved in immune activity. These cells destroy any disease-causing agents that might enter the liver through the gut. Your Pet’s Immune System Liver Guard Production of Albumin Albumin is a protein found in the blood. It transports fatty acids and steroid hormones to help maintain pressure and prevent the leaking of blood vessels. It is the higher circulating albumin found in dogs that suggests they possess an increased fat oxidation capacity, in comparison to humans. Synthesis of Angiotensinogen This hormone raises blood pressure by narrowing the blood vessels when alerted by production of an enzyme called renin in the kidneys. Did you know? In mice, if two thirds of their liver is removed, the remaining tissue can regrow to its original size within 5-7 days! In humans, this process takes slightly longer, but it can still occur. In dogs, the mechanism is thought to occur similarly to that in the mouse., but maximum response is seen after three days, as opposed to 24-hour peak in rat regeneration. Findings Here As you can see, there are many reasons why we describe the liver as the powerhouse of the body. It plays a huge role in digestive function, metabolism and even immune function. Sadly, there are a number of factors that can contribute to its poor function: Poor diet Stress Endocrine disease Infectious agents Trauma Pharmaceuticals Vaccinosis Copper toxicity If you would like to learn more about what can go wrong with the liver, check out the following My Pet Nutritionist blogs. Ultimate Guide to Liver Disease Vaccinosis Liver Shunts If you are concerned about your pet’s health, please check out our services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team
This is one of the questions we are asked all the time here at My Pet Nutritionist. What foods can support joint health in my dog? Well, we thought we’d give you a rundown of 5 of our favourite. 1) Green Lipped Mussels GLM’s contains around 90 different fatty acids, glycosaminoglycans (chondroitin sulphate), glutamine (a glycosaminoglycan precursor), vitamins C and E and minerals including zinc, copper and selenium. The synergy of these nutritional components work in perfect harmony to support joint and mobility issues in pet. When looking at joint health you need to consider all mechanisms responsible for the disease and then how to address them. Inflammation It’s generally the inflammation and rubbing of joints that create pain and stiffness. The fatty acids in green lipped mussels with EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexanoic acid) are the most abundant. These are the important fatty acids that are known to reduce inflammation. GLM’s are natural COX inhibitors just like NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), so they can obtain the same pain free results without the negative side effects. They are also natural LOX inhibitors too. Degradation This is the main reason for the breakdown of the joint matrix. The joint matrix and connective tissue need to be supported by components that replicate the structure of joints, naturally. GLMs are rich in glycosaminoglycans and glycosaminoglycan precursors, known as GAGs. An important GAG found in GLMs is chondroitin sulfate a well-documented structural ingredient for joint support. Oxidation Free radical damage can create more degradation and inflammation so we need to support this with natural antioxidants found in GLM. Vitamin C and E are both abundant in GLM’s and essential for joint care. Joint Lubrication Synovial fluid within the joint matrix is incredibly important to support cushioning and movement. Alterations in synovial fluid (SF) lipid composition have been linked to both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). GLMs provide polysulfated glycosaminoglycans (PSGAGs), the building blocks for cartilage and joint fluid. 2) Turmeric Turmeric, Chew-Meric, Tum-eric, no matter how you say it (and yes, everyone seems to say it differently), it packs a whole lot of punch (good punch!) Turmeric is a flowering plant, but it’s the root we’re most interested in. Part of the ginger family, it looks very similar, but it’s the smell that helps you differentiate. When boiled, dried and ground, it’s the spice that is found in many Asian dishes. It has a warm, bitter, pepper like taste with a mustard-like aroma. It’s that spice that makes your hands yellow when you use it! And your worktops, sinks and utensils! It’s known as curcuma longer in the ginger family, and it’s the active compound curcumin that brings the benefits we speak of. It’s often named cure-cumin for the promise it brings. Turmeric is frequently used in humans, to help with a range of diseases and conditions including skin, pulmonary, aches, pains, sprains, liver issues and cancer. Curcumin specifically is argued to be anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-tumour and also helpful in wound healing. Used in Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine for centuries, it is now finding a place in Western Medicine. Many joint issues feature chronic inflammation, and in supporting our dogs, we aim to reduce pain and inflammation. So here comes turmeric with its anti-inflammatory properties! Several studies have shown that when supplemented with turmeric, arthritic dogs show a marked improvement in their daily life activity without any side effects! Findings Here It seems to be down to turmeric’s ability to regulate cytokines. 3) Ginger A University of Miami study concluded that ginger extract could be a substitute to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The study compared the effects of a highly concentrated ginger extract to placebo in 247 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The ginger reduced pain and stiffness in knee joints by 40 percent over the placebo. Research shows that ginger affects certain inflammatory processes at a cellular level, and as we know, many pathologies involving the joints have inflammation as the key player. There are more than 1300 types of ginger plant, and they contain a wide range of nutrients, including: vitamin C vitamin B6 the minerals magnesium, potassium, and copper gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and other phytonutrients and polyphenols Gingerol, shogaol, and paradols all have antioxidant properties, and gingerol and paradols are also anti-inflammatory. Antioxidants help the body get rid of free radicals, which can lead to cell damage and inflammation. Does My Dog Need Antioxidants 4) Oily Fish Joint degradation is characterised by inadequate production of compounds necessary to its structure, along with reduced collagen synthesis. This can be a result of physical stress, trauma, autoimmunity, or aging. Here, inflammation is upregulated, creating further breakdown. It results in weak, damaged, or inflamed tissue with restricted or painful movement. Essential fatty acids are well known to help modulate inflammatory responses found in cases of joint degradation. During the inflammatory response, certain enzymes catalyse the production of compounds which cause pain, redness, and heat. It has been discovered that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit these enzymes that result in this response. Great sources of omega-3 fatty acids include all those oily fish like sardines, salmon, and mackerel. Some plant based oils also contain omega 3 too, hemp seed oil has a great omega 6:3 ratio! 5) Bone Broth Bone broth is a liquid containing brewed bones and connective tissues. Bones themselves are rich in vitamins and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous. In addition, brewing connective tissue into bone broth provides the body with natural compounds from the cartilage. You will also find collagen and cooking collagen turns it to gelatin, which provides the body with amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. It is not possible to say how much of any nutrient will be in a particular batch of bone broth, since this largely depends on the type and quantity of the bones and tissues that went into it, but a good rotation of bones and tissues will provide a range of nutrients. A 2017
There’s a difference between nutrients and foods – nutrients are what you find in foods. Whilst it can be a somewhat reductionist approach to health, if we know the role of certain nutrients, it can help us understand why we need to include them in our pet’s diet. In this blog, we thought we’d look at some of the most important nutrients for bone and joint health in pets. Bone is a light, yet strong connective tissue consisting of around 30% collagen and other matrix proteins with around 70% minerals. These minerals include calcium and phosphorus, but magnesium, sodium and potassium are also present in conjugated form. Bones come together to form joints. The type of joint formed determines the degree and direction of motion. For example, joints with a ball and socket formation allow for a rotation whilst hinge joints only allow for bending and straightening. In a joint, the ends of the bones are covered in cartilage, which helps reduce friction as joints move. With age, this cartilage can degrade. Tendons connect muscle to bone and are made up mostly of collagen. Ligaments surround joints and help to stabilise them. They also connect bone to bone. Bone Health Bone starts as a cartilage model which gets slowly replaced. Osteoblasts are the cells that form new bone; think of it as a blast that spreads, and osteoblasts spread to form new bone. Osteoblasts secrete osteoids which are simply unmineralized bone tissue. Soon after the osteoid is laid down, inorganic salts (calcium and phosphorus) are deposited which forms the hardened material that we know as bone. Inappropriate levels of calcium and phosphorus during growth therefore understandably contribute to bone deformities and skeletal disorders. Calcium Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body. An optimal calcium intake is necessary for bone health at all stages of life. Dietary requirements for calcium are determined by the need for bone development and bone maintenance, which vary throughout life, being higher during puppyhood, adolescence, during pregnancy and lactation, and in the aging. When imbalanced levels of calcium are present, it can result in abnormal skeletal formation and/or function. Causes of Calcium Imbalance Vitamin D imbalance Kidney disease Liver disease Thyroid or parathyroid gland issues Diets rich in phytate and/or oxalate Primary hyperparathyroidism Cancer Certain medications Glucocorticoids promote calcium depletion High sodium diets – when sodium leaves the body it takes calcium along with it Sources of Calcium Raw meaty bones Sardines with bones Salmon Kale (cooked) Chia Seeds Bok Choi Egg Broccoli Liver Vitamin D Vitamin D is actually a hormone that promotes calcium absorption. In human health, you will have heard it referenced as the sunshine vitamin as it is produced in the skin in response to sunlight (UV) exposure. In studies of hip fractures in humans, there appears to be a seasonal variation; more occur during winter months and fracture patients often have low vitamin D status. When supplemented with Vitamin D and calcium, incidences of fractures often reduce. Findings Here https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1240026/ Vitamin D plays an indirect role in bone health by managing calcium levels in the body. It controls absorption of calcium in the intestine and the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. If Vitamin D levels are low, then the intestines struggle to absorb calcium. Calcium is key to bone mineralisation (hardening), without calcium, bones are unable to form correctly. Not only that, but due to the lack of circulating calcium, the body mobilises it from the bones by way of increased parathyroid hormone. This not only weakens the bones, but it also creates a new issue, namely secondary hyperparathyroidism. Vitamin D deficiency include symptoms like: Simultaneous deficiency/imbalance in calcium/phosphorus, Rickets (soft and weak bones in young dogs), Osteomalacia (soft and weak bones in adult dogs), Osteoporosis (weak bones leading to fractures), Neurological abnormalities, Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), Elevated parathyroid hormone (symptoms include bone pain, depression, kidney stones, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, and kidney failure), Posterior paralysis, Ataxia (neurological issues including gait abnormality, difficulty walking, tremors), Quadriparesis (weakness in all four limbs). Food Sources of Vitamin D Flesh of fatty fish (salmon, tuna and mackerel) Fish Liver Oils Beef Liver Egg Yolks Joint Health Other than the skeleton, which provides a rigid structural framework for the body, there are other connective tissues that provide support. Where a degree of flexibility is required, cartilage is a rubberlike tissue that offers semi-flexible support for structures. The other function of cartilage is to prevent friction and enable smooth movement around joints. Cartilage is formed by chondrocytes which mainly consist of collagen and proteoglycans. Ligaments are made from tough, fibrous, dense connective tissue. They are made up of collagen, elastin, proteoglycans and a range of minerals including copper, manganese and calcium. Key to proteoglycan structure are the GAG’s chondroitin and dermatan sulphate. Tendons are very similar in structure and function as connectors that join muscle to bone. They are capable of carrying high tensile or compressive forces, facilitating movement around a joint. They have proportionally more collagen and less proteoglycan content as a result of the need for an even tougher structure. Joint degradation is characterised by inadequate GAG, proteoglycan and collagen synthesis to renew tissue in the face of degradation caused by physical stress, trauma, autoimmunity or ageing. Vitamin C Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, antioxidant, and essential co-factor for collagen biosynthesis, carnitine and catecholamine metabolism, and dietary iron absorption. Whilst humans are unable to synthesize it themselves, dogs seemingly can in adequate amounts. Vitamin C is an essential for two enzymes required in collagen synthesis, so sufficient amounts are necessary for optimal joint (and bone) health in the canine. Sources of Vitamin C: Peppers Carrots Pumpkin Sweet Potatoes Seaweed Blueberries Glucosamine Glucosamine is a natural sugar that exists in the fluid around the joints, as well as in animal bones, bone marrow, shellfish, and fungi. The body uses glucosamine to build and repair cartilage. With age, cartilage can become less flexible and start to break down. This
The 3rd of January is known as the Festival of Sleep, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d look into sleep in a little more detail. We often forget how important sleep is to overall health, for both ourselves and our pets. So let’s get to grips with why our dogs need it and some top tips for improving its quality, including whether there are nutrients that can help too! Sleep is widely studied for its evolutionary benefits. It is crucial for most daily functions. It is clear in humans, that when suffering sleep restriction, they have attention lapses, slowed working memory, reduced cognition, and depressed thought. Studies have also shown a significant reduction inactivity in dogs experiencing sleep restriction. Sleep can also mean the difference between life and death. Let’s take a trip back to the late 1800s. Whilst Coca Cola was sold in bottles for the first time in 1894, we still hadn’t made that much progress with animal testing. Marie De Manaceine was fascinated with sleep deprivation. She had established that mental disturbance resulted from partial insomnia, but she wanted to know more. So, in her Lab, she recruited puppies. 10 to be specific; aged 2, 3 or 4 months old. Whilst they continued to be fed by their mother, she kept them in constant activity. In short, she deprived them totally of sleep. After 96-120 hours, the puppies were irreparably lost. What is interesting (despite it being macabre), is that when puppies were starved, they could be saved after 20-25 days. This wasn’t possible when they were sleep deprived. Marie found that sleep deprivation significantly affected the puppy’s brains. When they were starved, the brain was left almost spared. But, in the absence of sleep, fat degeneration, blood vessel abnormalities and haemorrhaging occurred. In short, when the rest of the body is negatively affected by malnutrition, to an extent it can be saved. However, when the brain is affected, it is fatal. Sleep and The Brain The brain is the command centre for the nervous system. It is divided into three main sections; the brain stem which controls basic life functions, the cerebrum, which is the responsible for decision making and the cerebellum which controls movement. We know how a diet limited in lipids can detrimentally affect the brain and contribute to neurological disease, but sleep deprivation still had a worst impact in these puppies. Findings Here Many studies since Marie’s, have demonstrated that sleep loss (not deprivation) during development can result in reduced brain mass, neuronal death and subsequent behavioural problems. On the subject of the brain, it is pertinent to mention the glymphatic system. As we know, the body possesses its own sewerage system – the lymphatic system – but the brain has its own independent waste disposal system known as the glymphatic system. This system is gaining traction and being implicated in neurodegenerative disease. Researchers suggest that the glymphatic system may also function to help distribute non-waste compounds like glucose, lipids, amino acids and neurotransmitters. This system functions mainly during sleep, being largely disengaged during times of wakefulness – this suggests that amongst its many functions, sleep provides a state of activity that enables the elimination of potentially neurotoxic waste products. Your Pet’s Lymphatic System Sleep and Immune Function Sleep supports the initiation of an adaptive immune response. Slow wave sleep, and the circadian system act in concert to generate a pro-inflammatory response as well as reduced levels of the anti-inflammatory stress hormone cortisol. The hormonal changes in turn support the early steps in the generation of an adaptive immune response in the lymph nodes. In addition, sleep specifically supports memory formation in the immune system. The implication of sleep on immune response is demonstrated in various studies of vaccination, for example sleep on the night after experimental vaccinations against hepatitis A produced a strong and persistent increase in the number of antigen-specific Th cells and antibody titres. Findings Here Sleep and Cognitive Function One of the main purposes of sleep is to consolidate memories or learning. This has also been found true in dogs. Learning affects sleep structure which ultimately decides whether you retain the information or not. Interestingly, in studies, those dogs allowed to sleep after learning a new command were more likely to retain the command at a later date than dogs allowed to walk or play. Findings Here How Much Should Dogs/Puppies Sleep? Adult dogs, in a laboratory setting, when left, will sleep on average for around 13 hours per day. They are diurnal, which means they are active during daylight hours. Rest occurs during dark periods with activity increasing the two hours before light. Dogs have a natural rest period around noon and then reduced activity during the afternoon. Findings Here Puppies can sleep anywhere between 18-20 hours per day. Again, you will notice higher activity in the morning and then rest, with reduced activity around noon and into the afternoon. Interestingly, the experiences that your dog has can affect the type and quality of sleep they experience though. Studies have found that after a negative experience, dogs will fall asleep more quickly. It is thought that this is a protective sleep, in response to stress. This should be a consideration for all dog owners. It’s all too easy to attribute an “exhausted” dog to the busyness of the day. Be mindful, their sleeping habits could be more indicative of their experience. Findings Here In humans, lack of sleep is classed as a major stressor. It wouldn’t be too much of a stretch to suggest similarly for our canine companions. Below average sleep quotas are linked with anxiety, aggression, decreased response to reward, lower frustration tolerance and low resilience. Sleep disturbances affect hormone levels; specifically stress hormone levels. Animals experiencing sleep disturbance demonstrated less grooming behaviour and opt for fewer enrichment activities, and we know how important these activities are for stress regulation in dogs. Findings Here Ideas To Help Your Puppy Sleep If your
We couldn’t see the year our without a trendy list now, could we? So, like Spotify rounds up your yearly stats, here are our top 21 foods to feed your canine – whether they are regular features in their diet, or simply added to the bowl! 1) Red Bell Peppers Red bell peppers contain almost three times the amount of Vitamin C that an Orange does! We all know that oranges are touted for their immune supporting functions, but citrus fruits can sometimes cause some digestive discomfort for our furry friends (not all though). Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which as you know if you read our guide to the immune system, they help protect the body against infection. 2)Brussels Sprouts Cruciferous vegetables like Brussel sprouts are seen to have positive results in cases of various cancers like bladder, colorectal, gastric, lung, pancreatic, renal cell carcinoma and various hormone related cancers. Cruciferous vegetables are a rich source of glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products, including indoles and isothiocyanates. Glucosinolate hydrolysis products alter the metabolism or activity of sex hormones in ways that could inhibit the development of hormone-sensitive cancers. In addition to providing fibre, Brussel sprouts for example contain flavonoids, lignans and chlorophyll. Furthermore they are a source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, folate and selenium. Opt for cooked/steamed. Findings Here 3) Broccoli Broccoli is packed full of vitamins and minerals. You will find vitamins A, C and E, fibre and antioxidants in these little green trees! Vitamin A helps maintain structural and functional integrity of mucosal cells in innate barriers (skin, respiratory tract etc). It is also important for the functioning of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In the adaptive immune response, vitamin A is necessary for the functioning of T and B cells and therefore for the generation of antibody responses to an antigen. Vitamin A also supports the Th2 anti-inflammatory response. 4) Spinach Rich in Vitamin C, it is also packed full of antioxidants like beta carotene. Not that you would know it because the chlorophyll hides the yellow-orange pigment. Beta carotene is converted to Vitamin A in the body but beta carotene, like all carotenoids is an antioxidant, which protects the body from free radicals. Free radicals are produced by macrophages whilst fighting off invading germs, and these free radicals can then damage healthy cells leading to inflammation, so a diet rich in antioxidants can help mitigate the damage when calling on that trusty immune response. In addition, it supports heart health thanks to Vitamin K. Spinach also contains the highest amount of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to support eye health and protect against age-related degeneration. Best to lightly cook spinach before you offer it to your dog though! 5) Turmeric This bright yellow spice has been used for years as an anti-inflammatory, but it is also known as an immunomodulator. It interacts with dendritic cells, macrophages and both B and T cells. But it also interacts with cytokines and this is why we generally note its role in the inflammatory response. The inclusion of turmeric has been seen to increase antibodies to particular antigens and overall, it is seen to improve both innate and adaptive immune function. In addition, several studies have shown that when ingested, turmeric moderates bacterial load within the gut. In short, it acts as a potential prebiotic. Findings Here 6) Cucumber Mostly water, these little guts won’t really add much to the calorie content of your dog’s dinner. But these hydrating snacks contain an antioxidant known as cucurbitacin which is thought to inhibit COX-2 enzymes. As we know, these enzymes are pro-inflammatory, and absolutely necessary, the issue is when their activity is unmodulated. Cucurbitacin is also considered to have anti-cancer activity along with liver protection. These compounds also occur in pumpkin, melon and watermelon if you’re interested. Findings Here 7) Mussels Many types of shellfish are packed full of zinc and this is a particular powerhouse when it comes to immune function. It has antioxidant effects protecting against reactive oxygen species, it helps modulate cytokine release and also helps maintain skin and mucosal membrane integrity (that first line of defence). In the adaptive immune response, zinc has a central role in cellular growth and differentiation of immune cells. It plays a role in T cell development and activation and supports the Th1 response. Cooked mussels are a great addition to your dog’s bowl and are easily picked up in the supermarket. 8) Mushrooms Not only are mushrooms a great source of B vitamins, but they contain the less talked about mineral selenium. There are such things known as selenium-dependent enzymes which can act as redox regulators and antioxidants; so, selenium can help protect against free radicals too! Not only that but selenium is involved in T cell proliferation, and it also has a role in antibody production. Lightly cook mushrooms before offering them to you dog and check out the range of species that have additional health benefits too! 9) Broccoli Sprouts These sprouts contain a compound known as sulforaphane. This compound has been seen to have anticancer properties in test tube studies, it is thought to release antioxidant and detoxification enzymes that protect against carcinogens. Sulforaphane is thought to support hearth health by reducing inflammation and also may reduce blood pressure. In addition, this compound has been seen to improve recovery and reduce mental decline after traumatic brain injury. Finally, sulforaphane has improved symptoms of constipation in humans in a 4-week study. Findings Here 10) Kale One of the leafy greens, kale is rich in folate, or vitamin B9. B vitamins are required to convert food into energy and the demands placed upon the body during sickness can mean more of a demand on this process. Not only that but folate plays a role in maintaining natural killer
Christmas can be a little chaotic at the best of times; some of our companions love the attention from all the visitors, but some can get a little overwhelmed. There are many strategies that we can employ for our furry friends to get through this time of year unscathed, but we can also support them nutritionally too! Here are our top nutritional tips for canines this Christmas. Max Out On Magnesium! Magnesium excretion is increased during times of stress. Catecholamines and corticosteroids enhance the shift of magnesium from inside the cell to outside of the cell leading to increased urinary excretion. In turn, low magnesium levels increase the release of stress-associated hormones. This unfortunately creates a cycle of a reduced resistance to stress. Offer your dog plenty of magnesium rich foods like leafy greens, nuts and seeds. Time for Tea! L-Theanine is seen to facilitate the generation of alpha waves which are indicative of a relaxed but awake and alert state. L-Theanine helps regulate the usual stress responses like increased blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol secretion and it’s found in our trusty tea! Green tea packs the highest content, so brew up a cup of decaf and share it with your pooch this Christmas. Dose up on D! Did you know that Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased anxiety scores? Whilst we know it plays a role in immune function, it also contributes to cognitive function along with mood and behaviour. Add plenty of fresh foods containing Vitamin D to your dog’s bowl, including: liver, fish and eggs! Mushrooms are a great source too, and if you keep them in the windowsill, you’ll get even more Vitamin D too! Always remember to saute mushrooms before feeding. Build Up Your B’s! B vitamins are heavily involved in the synthesis and breakdown of stress hormones. Whenever we or our dogs are stressed, we release a cascade of hormones that help us manage the threat in front of us. When the threat has passed, those hormones need to be broken down so our bodily functions can return to normal. It goes without saying, the more often our bodies have to do this, the higher the demand for B vitamins (and more). B vitamins are water-soluble, meaning they need to be replenished daily, and this is even without any stressors we may be facing. Offer your dog plenty of sources of B vitamins in their bowls like seafood, poultry, red meat, leafy greens and seeds! Our wonderful Calm Complex provides all of the above. br] br] Fill up on Ferments! This may not apply to all dogs; especially if you are tackling an itchy issue, but there is increasing data highlighting that poor microbial diversity in the gut is linked with increased scores of anxiety. A great way to support microbial diversity is to ensure the diet contains both pre and probiotic foods. Prebiotic sources include: mushrooms, dandelion greens, garlic, burdock root and more. Probiotic foods include fermented products like kefir. Aside from certain nutrients, we also know how important chewing is in engaging the parasympathetic nervous system – which is the rest and digest side of the stress response. This is why offering whole foods, which take some chewing, is great for your dog’s physical and emotional health. Why Dogs Need To Chew Other top (non-nutritional) tips for supporting your overwhelmed canine this Christmas: Set up a safe space – this can be a covered crate or simply a quiet spot somewhere in the house. Try to maintain as much of the routine as possible, Head out on walks when it’s quiet – when everyone is driving home for Christmas at the same time, it can get a little unnerving for your anxious pooch. If you would like any support with your pets, then please check out our services. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Whether you are a seasoned raw feeder or simply want to include raw meaty bones as a way to support dental hygiene for your dog, knowing which bones to feed can be a bit of a minefield. It’s a question we get asked here a lot at My Pet Nutritionist, so we thought we’d put together a handy guide on feeding bones to your dog. We’ll look at the do’s and don’ts and the why’s and wherefores. Why Feed Bones? Depending on the approach you have in feeding your dog, bones will either provide recreational enrichment and dental health support, or a solid 10% of their diet. Bones as Enrichment and Stress Relief Study after study have demonstrated that chewing can counter the effects of stress. Not only does it reduce stress hormone levels, but it also limits sensory processing of external stressors. In short, it keeps your dog’s attention off things it doesn’t need to be paying attention to. At the same time, chewing is known to improve alertness; it shortens reaction time and increases vigilance. This is thought to be due to the increase in heart rate during the chewing task which increases cerebral blood flow and brain activity. So, chewing for the dog can help them rebalance their stress levels and also improve their alertness, which may be of interest if you are preparing training sessions In rest and recovery, chewing opportunities need to be in a quiet space where rest can be encouraged. The increase in heart rate and blood flow, soon dissipates, and with the limited processing of external stressors, the dog is prepared to rest. At the other end of the scale, to promote alertness, offer a chewing opportunity 15-30 minutes before training. This will vary from dog to dog, so it may take some time to find the sweet spot. What is also interesting, is the rate of force needed when chewing, especially when we are encouraging dogs to rest and recover. A strong chewing force induces a greater reduction in stress levels. So, in this situation, larger bones may be more appropriate. Bones for Dental Health Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in the dog’s mouth forms to create a substance called plaque. The plaque sits on the surface of the teeth and with the help of saliva, it hardens to form tartar. Not only does it sit on the teeth, plaque and tartar seeps into gum lines which causes inflammation. Over a period of time, this inflammation and presence of bacteria causes damage to the structures surrounding the teeth; causing receding gum lines and eventually tooth loss. Not only is the mouth and teeth a concern, but the bacteria found in the mouth of your dog can be released into the circulatory system, which then travels through the body. It has been found to damage cardiac tissue causing endocarditis (infection and inflammation in the heart). Oral health is gaining more and more attention in the human realms for its implication in a range of diseases. Much of this we can transfer to our canine companions which means optimising their dental health is of paramount importance. There are a number of chews on the market promoting oral health, but it is actually the mechanism of chewing that helps to reduce build up. Chewing stimulates saliva which produces anti-bacterial agents, helping to keep the mouth clean. Not only this, but the abrasion that occurs during chewing helps scrape deposits off the teeth. So, what type of chew is best? Here’s what the data suggests: Raw bones reduced mouth bacteria by 79%, Daily brushing reduced it by 70% and, Marketed dental chews reduced it by 54-60%. Findings Here As you can see, raw bones lead the way in reducing bacteria and therefore optimising dental health in the dog. Bones as a Source of Nutrition Bone starts as a cartilage model which gets slowly replaced. Osteoblasts are the cells that form new bone and they secrete osteoids. Osteoid tissue is simply unmineralized bone tissue. Soon after the osteoid is laid down, inorganic salts, like calcium and phosphorus are deposited which forms the hardened material that we know as bone. As you can see, calcium and phosphorus make up a large part of the skeleton, and so when these compounds are ingested by another animal, they ingest calcium and phosphorus (amongst others). In other words, when our dogs eat the bones of other animals, they are ingesting what that animal is built of. Whilst calcium is the main structural component of skeleton and teeth, 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. Calcium’s role in muscle function also includes maintaining the action of the heart muscle. Calcium particles enter the heart muscle cells during each heartbeat and contribute to the electrical signal that coordinates its function, so it’s also vitally important to cardiovascular health. Why Does My Dog Need Calcium 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. As you can see, whilst they are important nutrients for skeletal health and integrity, both calcium and phosphorus also play other roles in the body. But bones are also a source of sodium and magnesium too! Why Does My Dog Need Minerals How To Feed Bones No cooked bones Feed the right size for the breed Avoid weight bearing bones Avoid hollow-marrow bones Weaning/Puppies Chicken necks, wings, feet, thighs Duck feet, necks Rabbit, cut Quail, cut
You’ll have noticed that we talk a lot about vitamins and minerals here at My Pet Nutritionist. There’s a reason. For your pet’s body to do the jobs it needs to, it needs certain compounds, and that includes vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B6 is one of the B complex vitamins, it is water-soluble and necessary for a range of functions. Let’s take a look at it in a little more detail. Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that the body needs for several functions. It’s significant to protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism and the creation of red blood cells and neurotransmitters. Vitamin B6 cannot be made by the body and so it must come from the diet. Vitamin B6 and Behaviour The central nervous system runs on these chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. They are like the carrier pigeons of the body. Vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of a range of these neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine, serotonin and GABA. As we know, dopamine is involved in the reward circuitry in the brain, serotonin is known as the feel good neurotransmitter and GABA is like the brakes of the nervous system; it helps calm things down. So, if we are looking for balanced and appropriate responses to those things experienced by our dogs, they need access to sufficient levels of the right neurotransmitter. B6 will therefore play a role. In human studies we have linked vitamin B6 deficiency to depressive symptoms. Findings Here It is also linked to irritability. Findings Here A mild deficiency of B6 down-regulates GABA and serotonin synthesis, leading to the removal of inhibition of neural activity by GABA. Disordered sleep, irrational behaviour, and compromised cardiovascular function can result. In addition, a loss of hypothalamus-pituitary control and therefore aberrant hormone excretion. Vitamin B6 also has a direct effect on immune function and gene transcription/expression and plays a role in brain glucose regulation. Vitamin B6 and Brain Health Vitamin B6 is involved in managing homocysteine levels. In many cases, high homocysteine levels are associated with cognitive impairment and decline. Deficiency in B6 is regularly linked to high levels of homocysteine found in the blood; therefore posing a risk to brain health. Ensuring sufficient levels of B6 can therefore regulate homocysteine levels, and protect cognitive function. Findings Here Vitamin B6 and Eye Health High levels of homocysteine are also associated with age-related macular degeneration and so, B6 can therefore be beneficial in protecting eye health. As we know, B6 helps regulate levels of homocysteine in the body and in studies, when taking a regular dose of B6 supplementation, the risk of age-related macular degeneration decreased by 35-40%. This data was derived from human studies and so we must be careful when extrapolating to pets, but it certainly provides food for thought. In addition, other B complex vitamins were supplemented, so it would be pertinent to establish if the combination was of more benefit than single supplement. Findings Here Vitamin B6 and Arthritis The high levels of inflammation in the body that result from arthritis may lead to low levels of vitamin B6. There have also been studies demonstrating that vitamin B6 can help modulate pro-inflammatory responses in cases of arthritis. Findings Here The bottom line? If your dog is suffering with a chronic inflammatory condition, it would be pertinent to monitor their vitamin B6 status. Vitamin B6 and Anemia Due to its role in haemoglobin production, the most common sign of low B6 is anaemia. Haemoglobin is a protein that delivers oxygen to cells. When there is low haemoglobin, cells don’t get enough oxygen. The result is anemia. Signs and Symptoms of B6 Deficiency: Lethargy Abnormal heart rhythm Cracked lips Mouth ulcers Weakened immune function Inflammation of the skin Confusion/irritability Food Sources: Pork Poultry Fish Organ Meats Eggs As vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin, it needs to be replenished daily in the body. Risk of Depletion: Hormone demands – if your dog is stress, they are at risk of depletion without sufficient supply Undernutrition Malabsorption (digestive compromise) Pyridoxine-inactivating medications (phenobarbital for example). Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we advocate a fresh food diet which is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals. If your dog is suffering with a chronic condition, it may well affect their nutritional status, please check out our services if you would like to find out more. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
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,
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
