Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we tend to see quite a few cases of Cushing’s disease. Some cases seem to occur as a result of corticosteroid treatment and others tend to come with a plethora of other symptoms and disease. Here we can cover all we understand about this disease from a conventional perspective, and then we can delve deeper into the natural support we tend to offer. Cushing’s disease, also known as hyperadrenocorticism, is a condition in dogs where the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol; a hormone that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress. There are two primary forms of Cushing’s disease in dogs as we currently understand, but various other forms which are perhaps less common. Let’s take a look at these, starting with the two primary forms. Pituitary-dependent Cushing’s Disease (PDH): This is the most common form, accounting for about 85% of cases. It’s caused by a benign tumour in the pituitary gland (a small gland at the base of the brain) that stimulates the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol. Adrenal-dependent Cushing’s Disease (ADH): This form is less common and results from a tumour in one of the adrenal glands themselves. This tumour produces excess cortisol independently of the pituitary gland. Iatrogenic Cushing’s Disease: This form of Cushing’s Disease is caused by the administration of corticosteroid medications (e.g., prednisone) for other medical conditions. Long-term or high-dose use of these medications can lead to symptoms similar to Cushing’s Disease. This is not a true form of Cushing’s Disease but rather a drug-induced condition, meaning it can be ‘reversed’. Once the corticosteroid medication is reduced or stopped, the symptoms usually resolve, though it’s important to do so under veterinary guidance. Primary Adrenal Hyperplasia: In rare cases, a dog may develop Cushing’s Disease due to non-tumour-related hyperplasia (enlargement) of the adrenal glands, which leads to excessive cortisol production. This is less common compared to pituitary or adrenal tumours, and may occur due to chronic inflammation or trauma. ACTH-Secreting Tumours Elsewhere: While the pituitary gland is the most common source of excessive adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) production leading to Cushing’s Disease, there are rare cases where tumours in other parts of the body (such as the pancreas) can produce ACTH or ACTH-like substances, leading to Cushing’s- like symptoms. Genetic or Congenital Causes: Although rare, some genetic or congenital conditions could potentially lead to Cushing’s Disease by causing the adrenal glands to produce excessive cortisol. However, this is not well-documented and is less commonly recognised or understood. In summary, while tumours in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are the most common causes of Cushing’s Disease in dogs, other less common scenarios, such as iatrogenic effects or rare forms of hyperplasia, can also lead to similar symptoms. Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease The symptoms of Cushing’s Disease can vary, but common signs include: Increased thirst and urination. Dogs may drink more water (polydipsia) and urinate (polyuria) more frequently. Increased appetite Excessive Panting Abdominal swelling: A “pot-bellied” appearance due to abdominal distension. The weight is usually carried differently to those who are simply obese. Hair loss: The coat may become thin or brittle, and dogs may experience symmetrical hair loss, sometimes all over! Skin changes: The skin may become thin and prone to bruising/discolouration or infections. Those with hair loss caused by Cushing’s Disease often have a black, scaly look about them. Lethargy and fatigue Muscle wastage, especially in the hind limbs Behavioural change, including increased irritability or changes in mood. If you suspect your dog has Cushing’s Disease, your first step as a responsible pet owner is to seek veterinary assistance, where your dog’s symptoms can be investigated, and an appropriate diagnosis made. It is important to work with your veterinarian to build a suitable treatment plan for your pet. It is also important to note that some of these symptoms can also commonly be seen in other disease, hence the importance of a veterinary consultation. Causes and Risk Factors The exact cause of Cushing’s Disease isn’t always clear, but several factors can contribute: Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to developing Cushing’s Disease, including most commonly Dachshunds, Poodles, Boxers, and Beagles. Age: Cushing’s Disease is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older dogs, typically between 6 to 12 years of age. Tumours: Tumours in the pituitary gland or adrenal glands are the primary cause of Cushing’s Disease. These tumours are usually benign but can lead to significant health issues due to the impact on hormonal production and the overproduction of cortisol. Gut Health: Gut health has a huge impact on Cushing’s Disease for many reasons. Gut dysbiosis (which occurs when there is an imbalance in the gut microbiome) can come hand-in-hand with Cushing’s Disease due to the fact that some types of bacteria found in the gut cause Cortisol degradation. In those with Gut Dysbiosis, the microbiome may lack enough of this bacteria, causing elevated Cortisol levels. Inflammation: any inflammation in the body is a risk factor of Cushing’s Disease. Cortisol is known to reduce inflammation, however levels are often so high in those with Cushing’s Disease, the body often enters a state of low-grade systemic inflammation. This generalised inflammation can lead to a host of other diseases including cardiovascular (heart) disease, diabetes, and bone mass issues such as osteoarthritis. Toxin Exposure: When we really look into the nitty gritty of toxin exposure, both internally and externally, we can see worrying factors that can cause Cushing’s Disease, and other endocrine diseases. Unfortunately, some toxins our pets (and their humans!) often come into frequent contact with, are known endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors interfere with the balance of hormones in the HPA Axis, which can cause overproduction of the cortisol hormone, and also commonly presents as skin issues. You can read more about the HPA axis here. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Diagnosis Diagnosing Cushing’s Disease involves a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and diagnostic imaging (usually ultrasound or CT scans) to check for tumours and assess
The topic for this blog post here at My Pet Nutritionist, is all about the skin, specifically, two skin conditions we see frequently in dogs who come to us for help. Calcinosis Cutis, and Mucinosis are two conditions affecting the epidermis, and can be mild, or severe. Find out more about what they look like, what causes them, and how to support the body in getting rid of them in this blog post. What Are Calcinosis Cutis and Mucinosis? Calcinosis cutis and Mucinosis are both skin conditions, which can look quite similar. They both result in hairloss and redness of the skin, usually with either scabs, lesions, or small bobbles of skin, much like a patch of very tiny grapes. The bobbles are more apparent in cases of Mucinosis, and the legions or scabs are more typical of those suffering with calcinosis. Both conditions are as a result of a build up of substances in the various layers of the skin, but the deposits are different depending on the condition. Calcinosis cutis occurs when there are deposits of insoluble minerals in the skin, which leads to dystrophic calcification (where blood calcium levels are normal, but calcium salts are deposited in tissues, often due to damage) or metastatic calcification (where blood calcium levels are elevated). Dystrophic calcification is the more common form of calcification found in dogs, but metastatic calcification can happen. This condition is often in one or two smaller patches on your dog, however if the majority of the body is covered in the associated calcium deposits, the vet may diagnose it as Calcinosis universalis. Findings Here Dogs diagnosed with this condition require further investigation, as it occurs as a secondary issue to an underlying, and often severe health problem, which we will go deeper into shortly. Findings Here Mucinosis, or Cutaneous Mucinosis, happens when there is a build up of a glycoprotein called Mucin. Mucin is predominantly comprised of Hyaluronic Acid, and is essential in the body and plays a role in immune system modulation, inflammation control, lubrication of the digestive and reproductive tracts, lubrication of joints, and aids in the removal of pathogens, allergens, and foreign bodies. The more Hyaluronic Acid in the body, the more mucin there is, produced by the intestinal epithelium. Excess Mucin in the body is pushed toward the surface of the skin, which leads to severe bobbling and folding of the skin. Findings Here Findings Here A diagnosis of Mucinosis is not usually life-threatening, but secondary issues including breathing issues, eye problems such as entropion, and bacterial skin issues may occur. Mucinosis also occurs as a secondary condition to an underlying health problem, much like those with Calcinosis cutis. Causes of Calcinosis Cutis and Mucinosis Both conditions are as a result of an underlying condition, so let’s take a look at what causes what! When it comes to breed predisposition, Mucinosis is common in the Shar Pei. This is thought to be due to a genetic mutation which has been inherited from earlier generations, which causes high levels of hyaluronic acid to be present in blood serum. Larger/heavier set breeds, including bulldogs and German Shepherds seem to be affected by Calcinosis cutis more commonly than other breeds. Findings Here Age can be a factor in Calcinosis cutis too, affecting younger dogs under 2 years of age more commonly than older dogs. Trauma to the body, and reactions to medications, vaccinations, and foreign bodies can all be common underlying causes of Calcinosis cutis, as these leave tissues exposed, and vulnerable to inflammation and deposits of calcium mineral salts. Trauma and reactions cause the dystrophic form. Similarly, as inflamed tissues are at higher risk of damage, allergies and intolerances can be linked back to both conditions. Working on allergies, and running an elimination diet is essential for many with these conditions. You can learn more about elimination diets here. You may also wish to check for allergies using a nutriscan test. Findings Here When we look at specific medications that can cause Calcinosis cutis, there’s one type we commonly see as a cause of the condition; steroids. The over use of steroids is one of the top contributors to the onset of Calcinosis cutis in its metastatic form. Long term steroids can leave the body open to so many diseases, which is why it’s always best to get to the root cause of your pet’s issue, and only use steroids short term, and as a last resort. Findings Here Much like the over use of steroids, the over production of corticosteroids, which are adrenal hormones used by the body in the control of inflammation, is another of the most common underlying problems associated with Calcinosis cutis. The condition ‘hyperadrenocorticism’ (commonly known as Cushing’s Disease) is where the adrenal gland over produces corticosteroids as a result of adrenal cancer, pituitary cancer, or overgrowth of the adrenal glands. Unfortunately, the presence of too much corticosteroid in the body can supress the immune system, and damage the gut microbiome, which causes deposits of calcium to build up in the skin. Findings Here Kidney disease can also be an underlying cause of a build up of calcium in the skin, as their main role is to remove waste and excess products from the blood. If the kidney is unable to function properly, it wont be able to filter out any excess mineral salts. This is more common in cats than dogs, but can also happen in dogs in rarer cases. In dogs, kidney disease and the associated onset of Calcinosis cutis can be caused by contraction of leptospirosis. Findings Here Those with cancerous tumours on major glands in the body can also cause the blood calcium concentration to raise, leaving the body with excess calcium to be pushed through the layers of the skin, causing Calcinosis cutis. Findings Here When it comes to non-genetic underlying causes of Mucinosis in dogs, there are two theories, both regarding hyaluronic acid. The first is that there is a defect
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see a lot of confusion with regards to fasting your pets. The topic can cause quite the scuffle on social media, with largely varying opinions on the matter – so this blog article aims to help you, the readers, understand more about fasting, and when it is, and is not appropriate, or beneficial to do so. This post covers both cats and dogs, which both have very different needs, so we will split the blog into two sections; one for our feline friends, and one for our canine companions. What is Fasting? Fasting is quite a hot topic in both the pet, and human worlds! Fasting simply is, as it suggests – not feeding for a fairly lengthy period of time. The two types are: Intermittent fasting: feeding once per day, or twice per day, but no more than 6 hours apart, giving 16-23 hours between feeds Complete fasting: giving no food at all for a day or more. We will discuss length of fasting time for each species through this blog post. Should I Fast my Cat? The answer to this question isn’t a simple one – yes, and no. Cats should never be completely fasted, but can be fed one large meal per day in an intermittent fasting style. Cats are generally very susceptible to toxicity. Intake of dietary nutrients is extremely important for detoxification in cats, so regular and frequent feeding is essential. Cats should never go more than 24 hours without food! If the body is unable to suitable detoxify through nutrition, the risk of acute fatty liver increases. Lets take a deeper look at the science behind the importance of detox in cats. Cats are deficient in enzymes involved in later stages of detoxification. One notable example of this is glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase is a catalytic enzyme, which reduces hydrogen peroxide to water, which detoxifies the body and limits the harmful effects of hydrogen peroxide. Findings Here A process involved in the later stages of detoxification, known as sulfation, is dependent on sufficient consumption of the amino acid, taurine. Unlike dogs and us humans, cats are unable to synthesise taurine from cysteine in their diet, so cats require direct taurine sources to ensure sulfation can occur. Ensuring a taurine rich diet for cats, helps to improve hepatic detoxification (liver detox). Findings Here Finally, cats are not able to synthesize arginine. Arginine is an essential part of detoxification via urea, and if lacking it in the diet, this can lead to acute encephalopathy. Findings Here Findings Here Should I Fast my Dog? Fasting dogs, in most cases, is ok… and can actually be very beneficial. Unlike cats, dogs don’t necessarily need to feed every day, as they produce enough of the enzymes and amino acids required for detoxification. In the wild, species in the Canidae family would only eat maximum one larger meal per day. There are some situations where dogs should not be fasted – we will take a look at these next! When Not to Fast While fasting may have some health benefits, it certainly isn’t for all dogs. In the following situations, dogs should not be fasted: If the dog has hunger pukes if not fed twice per day Dogs with acid reflux Puppies Dogs on medications which require food to be consumed before or after Underweight dogs, needing to gain weight Diabetic dogs Bitches in welp How Long to Fast For The length of time you can fast your dog for, very much depends on the individual. Generally speaking, dogs can safely go up to five days without eating, however hydration is important during this time. Most dog owners who fast their dogs, tend to do one or two full fasting days per week, others cut down to just one large meal every day, much like the fasting process for cats, discussed above. When a fast day is included in your dog’s schedule, it’s important to increase their daily portion of food for the rest of the days each week, to allow for the day with no food – so the fast day(s) allowed portion is split between the rest of the dog’s meals that week. We tend to recommend only fasting for one day at a time, and we would always recommend consulting with a professional before beginning your fasting journey, if you’re not a seasoned faster! Benefits of Fasting Once you have established whether you could possibly fast your pet, and for how long, we can look at the benefits this new feeding regime could have. Longevity Research shows that fasting can greatly improve longevity. Studies are mostly carried out on mice. Results show that mice who were fasted for complete days, and allowed to eat as much as they wished on days they’re given food, lived far longer than those fed a set amount every day. Not only were length of lives analysed, but the brain function was also studied. The part of the brain which is affected by Alzheimer’s disease in humans, the Hippocampus, was tested – those who were fasted regularly had less brain damage than those who ate daily, showing enhanced cognitive ability in aging individuals when fasting occurred. Findings Here Findings Here Stronger Immune Function and Infection Fighting Ability The immune system contains many different specialized cells, which each have their own function, and work together to create an immune response, and fight infection. The first cells we will discuss are Macrophages. Macrophages destroy bacterial cells, viruses, and foreign bodies by engulfing them. Another important role they play, is the engulfing and subsequent destruction of dead cells within the body. Fasting is known to increase macrophage activity, making fighting illness quicker. The next immune cells we will talk about are Neutrophils. These are a type of white blood cell – the most commonly found! Their role in the immune system is to engulf bacteria and other microorganisms. Neutrophils destroy the initial invading bacteria when bacterial infections first
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, Liver Disease is something we help pet parents with quite often. The prospect of living with a dog with liver disease can be a daunting one. But we are here to help put your mind at ease, with this handy blog post packed full of useful hints and tips to supporting your pet’s liver, naturally. The Role of the Liver The liver is an extremely important organ in the body. It plays many roles in the overall health of the pet, including digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, detoxification, immunity, and endocrinologically. These roles, all link with one another, much like a large ‘loop’ of bodily functions dependent on the liver. Metabolically, the liver detoxifies fats from the body, and is also involved in the conversion of thyroid hormone 3 to thyroid hormone 4, which we can also look at from an endocrinology point of view. When looking deeper into the liver’s role in detoxification, we see that not only does it detoxify the body of excess fatty acids, but also of drugs, steroidal hormones, environmental toxins, and ammonia (as it helps the formation of urea). In terms of nutrients absorption and storage, the liver is involved in the storage of glycogen, which controls blood sugar levels, and also plays a role in the storage and absorption of Vitamins A, B12, D, E and K, as well as minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper. If we look at what the liver produces, we see is produces cholesterol, which is an important precursor to vitamin D synthesis, and production of sex hormones, and it also produces bile, which is used for digestion of food, and also helps keep the gut free from unwanted microbes. Looking at hormone production, the liver produces and secretes four main hormones, or precursors for production of other important hormones. These are: Somatomedin (insulin-like growth factor, essential for regulation of growth of bones and tissues in the body) Angiotensinogen (involved in the regulation of blood pressure and balance of fluid) Thrombopoietin (used by the body to stimulate blood platelet development) Hepcidin (used to block the ability of cells releasing iron, which in turn regulates iron homeostasis in the body) Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Finally, the liver is largely involved in the synthesis of some of the body’s most important proteins, such as: Prothrombin (used in blood clotting) Albumin (plasma protein responsible for controlling the flow of fluids through the capillaries, known as Oncotic Pressure) Globulins (used in immune function) Ceruloplasmin (enables healthy absorption of dietary copper) Lipoproteins (used to transport cholesterol in the body) Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here What is Liver Disease? Liver disease can be any form of problem with your dog’s liver. Generally speaking, most liver problems in dogs start with an enlarged or swollen liver. Due to the strain on the liver when it is inflamed, liver cells begin to die off, while being replaced by scar tissues – tissues that form after trauma, and can be obstructive if they become too thick. The presence of scar tissues in the liver, cause the structure, texture and appearance of the liver to change. It tends to become firmer – the scientific name for this, is cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is not reversible, and can be a death sentence for the dog, as the liver fails. There can be many triggers and causes of liver disease in pets, including use of some drugs such as selected pest treatments, onset of hepatitis (chronic swelling of the liver), cancer, environmental toxins, infection or sepsis, congenital issues, and even autoimmune disease. Symptoms of liver disease include: Lack of appetite Blood in vomit due to stomach ulceration Jaundice (yellowing of skin, eyes and mucous membranes) Fluid build-up in the abdomen/bloat Excessive urination (polyuria) Excessive water consumption (polydipsia) Diarrhoea Fever Neurologic symptoms Issues with blood clotting There are some changes to diet and lifestyle we can make to help those with liver disease – let’s find out about these! Liver Guard Supporting the Liver Gut Health Gut health may seem like an odd connection to liver disease, however the two can certainly be linked! There’s a group of systems, or axes, which link the gut with the rest of the body, acting as a sort of ‘roundabout’ for the microbiome. You may have heard us mentioning the HPA Axis, the Gut-Brain Axis, and the Gut-Skin Axis; well, the Gut-Liver Axis is another! The main vein involved in the interactions between the gut and the liver, is called the Portal Vein. This is a two way path, through which products derived from the gut are transported directly the liver, and bile, and other liver secretions are transported directly back to the gut to be used in digestion. As the gut microbiome is so incredibly important for prevention, and management of nearly all health conditions, a healthy gut is ever so important. Healthy microbial communities in the gut, make for healthy gut-liver axis homeostasis. Having an unhealthy or unbalanced gut microbiome can lead to exposure to microbes which are pro-inflammatory, causing liver inflammation, and consequently, liver disease. Findings Here To keep the gut healthy, we can tweak the diet, and add supplements – which we will discuss next! Diet As ever, when the body is under inflammatory stress, or has any disease, we need to look at tweaking the diet, to ensure the pet is being fed the most biologically appropriate diet, with the correct nutrition to nurture the body depending on the specific health condition(s) the pet may be facing. A fresh diet would be most suitable, whether that’s raw or cooked. Many dogs suffering with liver problems, may do better on a cooked food instead of raw, but many do just as well on raw! Now, when it comes to different liver conditions, there is no one-recipe-fits-all. Those with liver shunts for example, we would recommend sought advice from one of our team, so we can provide
Graves Disease is an autoimmune disease involving the endocrine (hormone) system, specifically the thyroid, which we see from time to time here at My Pet Nutritionist. It can be a worrisome diagnosis for any pet owner, and it’s important that owners of pets with Graves Disease understand what it is, and how they can tailor their pet’s diet and lifestyle to keep on top of symptoms; which ultimately extends their pet’s comfort. That’s where we come in, to provide you our Ultimate Guide to Graves Disease in Pets. What is Graves Disease? Graves Disease is the non-clinical, or common, name for autoimmune Hyperthyroidism. You may have heard about Hypothyroidism quite regularly on social media and other platforms where pet owners connect, particularly on dog based platforms; but you may not have seen much discussion on Hyperthyroidism. Graves Disease is rare, but possible, in dogs but tends to be more of a frequent trouble for our feline companions. It can be found in us humans, too! So what exactly is Graves Disease? What happens when your pet has it? If you want the short answer, the thyroid gland in your pet is overactive – it’s working over time! We feel it’s important to understand more about it though, so read on! Graves Disease is an autoimmune condition. Autoimmunity tends to occur due to a damaged immune system, or in individuals with a genetically compromised immune system. The body essentially attacks itself, as it recognises various proteins and other substances in the body, as foreign. The thyroid is a gland which produces various hormones, essential for a healthy life. The hormones produced and secreted by the thyroid are called triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) – these help regulate the body’s metabolic rate. When there is a deficiency in these hormones, important bodily processes slow down, which causes a host of health issues. Now, when these hormones are too abundant, effects on the body can be equally as disruptive. We will discuss symptoms next. Symptoms of Graves Disease There are various symptoms of Graves Disease which you may notice in your cat or dog. Let’s take a look at some of the main symptoms: Weight loss, often rapid Diarrhoea Nausea/vomiting Swelling of the neck and face Increased urination Increased drinking Increased appetite Difficulty swallowing Shortness of breath and increases heart rate Change in pitch of bark Reduced eyesight capabilities Behavioural changes, including anxiety depression, and/or hyperactivity. Causes of Graves Disease The cause of Graves Disease is very much unknown. There is very little research into the causes of Graves Disease. It is often describes as ‘idiopathic’, meaning there’s no known cause. Some studies suggest that one known cause of Graves Disease in dogs (though rare) is as a result of a rapidly spreading cancer, called thyroid carcinoma. In cats, some cases of Graves Disease are secondary to a non-cancerous tumour forming on the thyroid gland called Adenomas. Like in dogs, in rare occasions, malignant tumours known as adenocarcinomas can cause the development of Graves Disease by causing the over production of hormones. It is possible that deficiencies in the diet may contribute to onset of Hyperthyroidism, as well as exposure to chemicals and toxins absorbed by the body, including flea and tick products which are toxins, and end up in the bloodstream, which disrupts the normal functioning of the thyroid. Diagnosing Graves Disease The first step in a diagnosis of Graves Disease, is a physical examination of the neck area of your pet. The purpose of this, is to feel for an enlarged thyroid gland. Secondly, the vet will take a blood sample to test for hormone levels in the blood. If the reading comes back with a value higher than the ideal’ threshold for each hormone, it’s very likely your pet has Graves Disease. If the T3 readings are high, but the T4 readings are ideal, more tests may be required, which would be discussed with the vet. These tests may include further bloodwork, and a urinalysis, which will show potential secondary defects to the heart and kidneys. As the thyroid is involved hormonally with the vast majority of the body’s organs, imperfect bloodwork in relation to other organs, could help show a problem with the thyroid. Conventional Treatments As always, here at My Pet Nutritionist, we like owners to be able to make an informed choice with their dog’s health, and encourage the use of conventional treatments where necessary in life potentially endangering situations, and situations where quality of life becomes the biggest importance. This is of course, alongside as much natural support as possible, and feeding a fresh, therapeutic diet. More on this later – let’s take a look at the conventional treatments your veterinarian may offer. There are various approaches which may be taken. As carcinomas are one of the most common, treatable reasons a dog or cat may have Hyperthyroidism, most are based around treating the cancer. Radioactive Iodine Therapy Radioactive Iodine Therapy is fairly common in practices which offer it as a treatment. The radioactive iodine is injected into the bloodstream, which makes its way to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland takes the iodine up, causing radiation to be emitted. The emitted radiation then destroys any cancerous tissues around the thyroid, but does not cause any damage further afield. This treatment often results in normal levels of hormone production within mere weeks of the injection, making it extremely effective in curing hyperthyroidism. This treatment option has to be undertaken in a specialist veterinary hospital with licencing to carry and use radioactive substances. The pet must also be kept in the surgery until their levels of radiation are safe for handling. Findings Here Findings Here Medication Some drugs may be offered, to inhibit the production and release of hormones from the thyroid. As the thyroid is overactive, slowing it down is imperative to managing Graves Disease. This method will not cure, but can support the pet in reducing flare ups and secondary health implications. Being the
Pancreatitis flare ups are often a concerning time for pet owners. With so many associated triggers, tailoring the individual dog’s routine to their needs is very important. One of the triggers we see a lot here at My Pet Nutritionist, is food sensitivities. Read on to learn more about how food sensitivities can be linked to pancreatic flares. A bit about the pancreas The pancreas is a very important organ in the body; it is part of the digestive, and endocrine systems. It’s role in the digestive system is to produce digestive enzymes to aid the breakdown of foods, with fat and protein being the main targets. Within the endocrine system, the pancreas produces insulin; a hormone which controls blood sugar levels. The pancreas is located in the abdominal region, on the right hand side, near the stomach, and above the intestines. The pancreatic duct attaches the pancreas to the small intestine, and transports the digestive juices made by the pancreas, into the small intestine, to be able to begin breaking food down. Before reaching the intestine, however, another duct from the gallbladder joins the pancreatic duct, and transports bile to the intestine. Findings Here When the pancreas becomes inflamed it releases the digestive enzymes it produces too early, which can result in the body starting to digest the pancreas itself, as well as the abdominal cavity; this is a pancreatic flare. Acute pancreatitis happens suddenly whether it is a mild flare, or a severe flare which hospitalises the pet. Chronic pancreatitis on the other hand, tends to happen for longer periods of time, and intermittently – symptoms are generally milder, but more constant than acute pancreatitis cases. Dogs with enzyme deficiencies, nutritional imbalances or intolerances, or other endocrine conditions tend to get chronic pancreatitis as opposed to acute pancreatitis. Dogs suffering with chronic pancreatitis are often found to be deficient in Vitamins C and E, as well as selenium. The main health condition associated with pancreatic flares, is Pancreatitis. Symptoms of a pancreatic flare are as follows: Vomiting Diarrhoea, sometimes bloody Fever/high temperature Increased heartrate Dehydration Digestive difficulties Abdominal pain (the ‘downward dog’ position, are hunched over back are classic signs of this) Low appetite Pressures on the pancreas For those suffering with pancreatic flares, or pancreatitis in general, it is extremely important to recognise, and understand the triggers of a flare. Let’s discuss the major trigger of a pancreatic flare. Fats More specifically, excess fats, and the wrong type of fats! Fat reduction in the diet is one of the most common things we hear pet owners panic about when their dog has pancreatitis, or a pancreatic flare. While excess fats can be very hard on the already inflamed pancreas, some fats such as fish oils and olive oils have been shown to block cellular mechanisms involved in the development of acute pancreatitis. Massively restricting fat may not be completely necessary long term for pancreatitis patients, but short term during a flare, may be worth reducing. We tend to advise 15% dry matter fat content in the diet of a pancreatitis patient, which is around 5% crude fat. In non-severe cases, the fat content can be gradually increased. Feeding a high fat diet, where the dog is unable to fully digest the fat consumed, can put pressure on the pancreas due to high blood fat content. More digestive enzymes are required for digestion of excessive fats, which causes the pancreas to overwork in order to produce those enzymes. Overworking an organ causes inflammation, which leads to health problems associated with that organ; in this case, a pancreatic flare. Carbs A less well known approach among dog owners, carbohydrates should be kept to a minimum in all dogs, but especially in those with pancreatitis. There is a huge link between high-carbohydrate diets, and an increase in excess blood fat. This is why it is important to steer away from dry food/kibble based diets – these are high in carbs, and the high carb content leads to high blood fat content, which as just discussed causes the pancreas to overwork. Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here High carbohydrate dry food diets also lack suitable amounts of vitamin E, due to it being an unstable vitamin, and the long shelf life of dry foods causes the vitamin E content to diminish by around 30% just 6 months from manufacture. As previously mentioned, those with chronic pancreatitis tend to be deficient in vitamin E already, so feeding a high carb, processed diet low in suitable vitamin E may not be a great idea. Vitamin E plays an important role in the removal of excess fat from the body. Less Vitamin E = More excess fat = Pressure on the Pancreas Findings Here Food Sensitivities As the main topic of this blog; food sensitivities can put huge pressure on the pancreas, linking them with pancreatic flares. It is incredibly important to work on your dog’s food intolerances so many reasons, pancreatic pressure being one of them. More on this subject later. Genetic Predisposition As with many health complaints, genetic predispositions are very much a problem with pancreatic flares. Whereas all breeds can suffer with pancreatitis, some breeds are more prone than others, purely down to their breed, and genetics. These breeds include: Miniature Schnauzers Miniature Poodles (and crosses of!) Cocker Spaniels Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Boxers Collies To find out more about pancreatitis, and how dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and correct supplementation can help, have a read of our Natural Guide to Pancreatitis! How do food sensitivities affect the pancreas? So, how do food sensitivities affect the pancreas, resulting in pancreatic flares? Food sensitivities are largely down to gut health, and immune modulation. If you are a regular reader of our blogs, you will notice us mention Leaky Gut a lot as well as inflammation. 70-80% of the immune system lays in the gut, so gut health is always paramount! Leaky Gut As per the condition’s name, leaky gut sufferers
Immunity is no doubt at the forefront of most pet owner’s minds. Everyone wants their pets to live a long and healthy life, so keeping a strong immune system is essential. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we help many pet owners through their own experiences of disease in their pets, so we thought we would put together this blog on the cornerstones for a strong immune system in your pets. 1. Gut Health Gut health is key to general health of all species, whether it be human, canine, feline, or even smaller furry pets! Virtually all aspects of health can be improved through good gut heath. Around 70% of the immune system is found in the gut! Quite a staggering figure, but a very important fact to keep in mind when it comes to our pets’ health. In an unhealthy gut, the immune system becomes massively impaired, leading to a potential multitude of health issues, including those allergy dogs we so often help here at My Pet Nutritionist. Many things can damage the gut, including chemical flea and worm treatments, poor diets which are processed and/or high in ingredients containing lectin, contact with household and garden chemicals and much more. It’s imperative to gut health, to feed fresh, and limit the exposure to all toxins! Using a mucilage herb for those with damaged guts, helps to heal the gut; these include slippery elm, marshmallow root, and deglycyrrhised liquorice. Teaming these with a probiotic allows the gut to flourish, as a damaged gut will leak the good bacteria which forms a large part of the immune system. Gut Guardian 2. Methylation DNA Methylation is a very important chemical process within the body. This process includes the chemical modification of DNA during replication of cells. Gene expression can be altered through methylation too. So, why is this process an important part of keeping the immune system strong? Various malignant cells, including those for lymphoid cells (produces immune cells B, T and NK) and myeloid cells (related health issues, such as Mast Cells) replicate through a process called hematopoiesis, making these cells ‘hematopoietic stem cells’ (HSCs). Myeloid cells are not ones we want replicating in the body, as they can lead to various types of tumour. Here’s where the process of Methylation comes in to play! Methylation has the ability to regulate HSC differentiation – in other words, it reduces the risk of the Myeloid cells replicating, and forming tumours, but increases differentiation of lymphoid cells. For more information on the types of cells involved in immune responses, read our blog here! Findings Here Findings Here Findings Here 3. Healthy Brain and Endocrine System The Endocrine System is what keeps the body’s organs in good health, through homeostasis. The endocrine system and immune system used to be thought to work independently from one another, but more recently, it was discovered that the two systems work hand in hand to keep the body healthy, and control infection. The immune system uses a mixture of immune receptors and cytokines to fight infection, and the endocrine system uses hormones to regulate metabolism in the body’s organs. As an example, one of the most important regulations aided by both systems, is the metabolism of glucose. Insulin is produced by the endocrine system to regulate glucose levels in the blood, and helps the body to fight infection. Cytokines aid the body during glucose spikes by increasing responsiveness of the peripheral organs to the endocrine system. When the organ becomes more responsive to the signals from the endocrine system, greater amounts of the required hormone can be produced. The brain produces so many important hormones for health of the body, and to help fight a variety of infections, so it is important to keep the brain healthy and free from inflammation. Supplementing your pet’s diet with plenty of omega 3 is a great way to keep inflammation down. To read more about the endocrine system, and the importance of hormones, read our blog here! Findings Here Findings Here 4. Circulation and Lymphatics The lymphatic and circulatory systems are an important part of immunity, and keeping the immune system strong. The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from bodily tissues, removing cellular waste, absorption of fat soluble vitamins from dietary sources, and helping to fight infections. The circulatory system works with the lymphatic system to transport the cellular waste and excess fluid around the body, and away from the relative organs. The interstitial fluid (found between tissues) is what provides the body’s cells with important nutrients, and a way of removing any waste from the cells. The lymphatic system acts as a taxi for antigens and antigen-presenting cells to transport them through the body to places of infection. This enables the antigens to fight the infection in question, and expel waste. Findings Here Findings Here 5. Detoxification Finally, detoxification is essential for immune health. The body is exposed to a host of toxins, just by going through daily life. We live, generally, in a very toxic world, so detoxifying the body is essential. Detoxification aids methylation, which as discussed above, is a very important process for a strong immune system. Liver Guard Heavy metals can be picked up and consumed very easily in our pets – traces can be found in food, and heavy metals are also in abundance in vaccinations. Those who have received vaccinations during their lives, whether only one has been given at an appropriate age as a puppy, or they’re given regularly (if given regularly, over vaccination occurs, making the risk of vaccinosis higher; read more here) the likelihood that your pet has heavy metals in the bloodstream is high. Heavy metals disrupt metabolic functions in vital organs, as well as reducing the ability to efficiently absorb vitamins and minerals from dietary sources. Detoxification can be achieved through feeding a fresh, preferably organic diet, minimising exposure to environmental and veterinary toxins, occasionally offering Epsom salt baths, supplementing the diet with milk thistle (this
The main forms of thyroid diseases are auto immune Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s), Hypothyroidism (Non autoimmune), and Hyperthyroidism (Graves’ Disease). To find out more about Hypothyroidism, please click here Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism. As with us humans, your dog’s thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck. It is part of the endocrine system, butterfly-shaped and consists of two lobes located either side of the windpipe (trachea) that controls metabolism. Metabolic processes are activities that occur in cells, involving the release of energy from nutrients your dog eats. Microscopically, thyroid tissue is made up of two types of cells: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Most of the thyroid tissue consists of follicular cells. The follicles store and secrete iodine –containing hormones called thyroxine. Thyroxine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine(T3). Thyroid hormones are important in the maintenance of normal, healthy activity levels of many different organs in the body: the heart, brain, liver, kidney and skin. All of which are vital for normal body function. The thyroid requires iodine to produce the hormones. Iodine is an essential trace element absorbed in the small intestine, it is an integral part of T3 and T4. Sources of iodine include iodised table salt, seafood, seaweed, and vegetables. However, too much iodine can actually activate thyroiditis, so if you supplement, (kelp being one of the most popular for dogs), please use with caution. Hyperthyroidism in dogs is a condition caused by the thyroid over producing thyroxine, increasing your dog’s metabolic rate to dangerous levels. It is much more common in older cats but when it does effect dogs it is usually serious. In some cases tumour growths in dogs can be benign and therefore easier to manage and may respond well to treatment, but malignant tumours can often spread to vital organs in the neck and risk further complication. ‘Hyper’ thyroidism (overactive) is rarer in dogs than ‘hypo’ thyroidism (underactive) and is usually a result from aggressive thyroid tumour called carcinoma (malignant) it begins in the epithelial tissue or the tissue that lines the gland. Thyroid tumours are commonly seen in middle aged to older larger breed dogs such as boxers, beagles, golden retrievers, and Siberian huskies. Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by an error in medications, which usually includes a synthetic form of thyroxine. An over correction of low thyroxine levels can sometimes result in hyperthyroidism. Graves’ disease in humans is often hereditary and between 25 and 50 percent of people have eye abnormalities, which are known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy. A small percentage of people with Grave’ disease develop a skin abnormality called pretibial myxoedema or Graves’ dermopathy. The primary cause of this disease is due to the increased metabolism, the body goes into overdrive that has an impact on the overall function of the body. Most commonly, the condition results in weight loss, despite an increase in appetite. Other possible signs and symptoms Hyperactivity Increased heart rate Swelling of the throat – goitre Anxiety Excessive panting, heat intolerance Increased thirst Increased urination Vomiting Diarrhoea Increased volume in stool Irritability or aggression Skin lesions, dry, greasy, matted coat Heart murmurs Congestive heart failure Cardiomegaly (enlarged heart) Dyspnoea (shortness of breath) Unfortunately, the majority of these aren’t necessarily specific to thyroid disease and signs and symptoms can vary from case to case. A visit to the vets as soon as you notice any signs is the best option. The checklist for thyroid disease A fresh and unadulterated fresh food diet Adrenal, liver, digestive immune and thyroid support Omega fats and antioxidants Vitamin deficiency test Diet for thyroid disease Fresh real food is advised for dogs with hyperthyroidism, preferably lightly cooked or raw. This is the most natural diet for dogs. Highly processed food is not recommended for dogs who have thyroid disease as they contain a very high percentage of carbohydrates, imbalanced omega 6-3 ratios and inappropriate ingredients, all of which cause inflammation in the body. They put huge pressure on the digestive system, pancreas and liver. Feeding whole fresh foods that provide a wide variety of nutrients will ensure a better chance of living a longer and healthier life. Hyperthyroidism has been linked to pet foods (raw commercially prepared) that include the thyroid glands of slaughtered animals. Exogenous hyperthyroidism, a result of excessive intake of thyroid hormones is rarely recognised but is the only other recognised cause. If you are concerned, contact your raw food supplier and ask them what parts they are using or home prepare your own food to be sure – for example chicken necks or trachea. Findings here Foods containing iodine should be avoided, some are listed here Processed food containing grains, cereal and soy Seafood Dairy products High amounts of poultry or beef Egg yolks Supplements such as kelp Seaweed Cruciferous Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale and brussels sprouts may stop the thyroid from using iodine properly. Findings here Veterinary approach to thyroid disease ‘Outdated or incomplete information taught in veterinary schools perpetuates inaccurate screening for canine thyroid disorder, since many vets are still applying outdated diagnostic methods. Tests used to determine thyroid disease include T4, free T4, T3, free T3, TgAA, T4AA, T3AA, and TSH their usage and importance depend on the situation of the dog being tested. T4 alone is not a reliable method’ – Dr Jean Dodds, DVM – The Canine Thyroid Epidemic 2011 Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Hyperthyroidism is often treated with antithyroid drugs, which stop the overproduction of thyroid hormone. Depending on the severity, treatment may entail partial removal of the tumour or removal of the entire thyroid gland. Chemotherapy or radioactive iodine (I-131) treatment or medications to counteract the excess hormone levels in which case the dog will be on replacement therapy for the rest of his life. If left untreated the condition can cause heart and kidney failure. Therefore, the best approach to hyperthyroidism is to help prevent it by providing a wholesome natural diet and avoiding unnecessary chemicals or environmental hazards which are all
