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
If you have followed us here at My Pet Nutritionist for any length of time, you’ll have realised that we see nutrition as a piece in a puzzle. If we are to optimise health in our pets, we also need to consider the bigger picture. We need to look at their physical activity, their stress levels, what they are exposed to and more. The reason we are so interested in what they are exposed to is to understand the burden their bodies must detoxify. Does My Pet Need to Detox? One of the ways in which we can support detoxification pathways is by purifying the environment around them, and this can include using air purifying plants. This concept came from NASA, when they carried out their clean air study which suggested that, in addition to absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis, certain common indoor plants may also provide a natural way of removing volatile organic pollutants. What are Volatile Organic Pollutants? It is believed that a dog’s sense of smell is 10,000-100,000 times that of an average human. They could detect the equivalent of one drop of liquid in 20 Olympic sized swimming pools! Findings Here So, even if we can’t detect a compound in our environment, it’s safe to say, our dog probably could. Your dog is detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are chemicals that evaporate under normal atmospheric conditions (room temperature, low boiling point), compromising air quality. It’s fairly obvious when you spill some fuel at the garage, or you’ve recently painted your kitchen. The odour is compounds in the air, that you breathe in and subsequently stimulate/inhibit your olfactory receptors. Findings Here VOCs are found everywhere. They are released by many everyday items including: Cleaning Products – detergents, bleaches etc Air Fresheners Paints Deodorants/Perfumes Fabrics Rugs Vinyl flooring Wood Burners Cigarette Smoking Printers and photocopiers This list is not exhaustive but covers the main culprits in most homes. But why are they a problem? Many VOCs have been proved as carcinogenic. That is, they are known to cause cancer. This largely depends on length of exposure, but it is still a risk. Findings Here In addition, many studies are showing the moderate to strong increase in respiratory distress or allergic effects of exposure to VOCs. Findings Here VOC exposure manifests in the short term as: Eye, Nose and Throat Irritation Headaches Nausea/Vomiting Dizziness Respiratory Distress In the long term, it can manifest as: Cancer Liver and Kidney Damage Central Nervous System Damage If you would like some tips on limiting VOC exposure in your home, check out our blog here: Toxic Homes But in addition, as NASA found, certain plants are particularly good at removing volatile organic pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. 1) Bamboo Palm These tropical plants are native to Mexico and Central America and grow naturally as forest understory plants. Bamboo palms are the perfect tropical plant for medium to low-light conditions. Unlike other palms, they do not require bright light to thrive. The soil of bamboo palms should be kept evenly moist, but never waterlogged. Bamboo palms are sensitive to both overwatering and under-watering, but it is always best to under-water rather than overwater. Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly between waterings. 2) Parlour Palm Parlour palm houseplants prefer low light and may suffer in direct sunlight, so there’s no need to place them in your brightest windows. The indoor parlour palm will most likely survive completely away from windows if that’s what your space requires – it just won’t grow very fast. Even with sunlight, the parlour palm is a slow grower, often taking years to reach its full height. Again, water your parlour palm sparingly, underwatering is better than overwatering. These plants are great if you don’t have a brilliant track record with houseplants. 3) Lady Palm Another easy to grow, the lady palm thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. You’d be best wiping the leaves with a moist cloth regularly, to remove dust and also keep pests away. 4) Barberton Daisy The daisy thrives best in a location with little to no direct light. But shady locations should be avoided. Over-watering is common in these, so it’s best to underwater. Under-watering symptoms include rapid flower loss and dry, crispy leaves – this can be due to lack of watering, too much sunlight or too much heat. Even though an under-watered Gerbera is far better than a soggy one, never allow the soil to thoroughly dry out for too long. Over-watering symptoms include rotting lower leaves, yellowing leaves, a loss of buds and flowers and root or crown rot. Allow most of the soil to dry out in between watering. These plants can be non-toxic, easily maintained additions to your home to help optimise both yours and your pets’ lives. If you would like to explore your pet’s health in more detail, then check out our services to see how we can help. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
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
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
For some, December is the most exciting month of the year, for others, we can feel like we’re dragging ourselves to the New Year, either way, it’s pretty typical for self-care to high-tail it out of the window. We’re not talking warm baths and scented candles, we’re talking basic human needs; like mealtimes and movement. When we’re burning the candle at both ends, are we able to care for our pets as much as we’d like? Here at My Pet Nutritionist we value pet guardian health alongside their furry counterpart’s, so in a slightly different blog than usual, we thought we’d give you our top tips for human health this winter. 1)Sleep! If we listen to the old adage we should rise with the sun and sleep when it’s dark, then we’d spend most of the winter sleeping (geographical location depending of course), but there is some method in this madness. Sleep is vital for health. Sleep not only supports immune function but it also plays a key role in optimal mental health. Poor sleep is regularly linked to depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges. Sufficient REM sleep facilitates the processing of emotional information, which can be even more important for some people at this time of year. The other thing to consider at this time of year is that Seasonal Affective Disorder is a subtype of depression which also affects people during reduced daylight hours. It is closely related to the disruption of internal biological clocks. Sleeping when it is dark is essential, but in the winter we rely heavily on artificial lights which can knock us out of sync. It’s important to keep to our typical routine wherever possible. Chrononutrition is the study of how when we eat influences our health – for example, shift workers eating during nighttime have reduced insulin tolerance compared to those who eat during the day. Furthermore, rising early, and feeling alert when doing so is linked with better dietary control. In other words, we are more likely to make good food choices if we rise with the sun, and go to bed with the moon. Top Tips for Improved Sleep Try grounding – Studies have shown that walking barefoot outside (where safe – think on the grass in the garden) improves both sleep and mood. It’s a little more difficult in the winter, unless you want cold and muddy feet, but grounding mats may be worth looking into. Try blue blockers – artificial light suppresses melatonin production and this is the hormone that helps us feel sleepy. Most of us head to bed with our phones or shortly after watching TV for a couple of hours. Consider looking at blue blockers for screen time and try to disconnect from technology completely for a couple of hours before bed. Engaging in that heated discussion on social media just before bed results in your body amping up, not calming down, so be realistic on whether it’s the blue light keeping you awake or what you’re exposing yourself to. Increase oxygen in your bedroom – some of the best “oxygen boosting” plants include: English Ivy, Aloe Vera, Areca Palm, Snake Plant and Peace Lily. Avoid excitotoxins in your diet – you tend to find excitotoxins in processed foods, but they do go by a range of names including: carrageenan, MSG, aspartame, E numbers, BHT and other preservatives. Just like the name suggests they ramp up activity in your nervous system – which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to settle for the evening. 2)Get Outside! Being dog owners, we tend to head out in all weathers anyway, but this really is so important for our health. Not only the cardiovascular benefits of physical exercise, but just simply being outside in nature. Our species has existed for thousands upon thousands of years – but even the oldest cities have only been around a fraction of that! What this means is that we largely evolved in nature, and this environment therefore shaped our brains – for want of a better phrase, going back to nature almost takes us back to our roots. Being in nature is seen to improve sleep scores Spending time in green spaces simply makes us happier Mental stress scores significantly reduce when we live in urban areas with increased green spaces Time in nature improves our relationships with others and also cognitive functioning It’s easy to look outside at the pouring rain and opt for some enrichment games instead, especially if your ever-expanding to-do -list is staring back at you, but we know that being in nature supports our stress resilience and tolerance. Heading out for that brisk walk could be just what you need. 3)Eat Well! At this time of year, we can all say we eat very well. As we’re filling up on those moreish foods, we need to ensure we’re getting plenty of the nutrient dense ones too! Every cell in every body has a job to do, and to do that job, it needs certain compounds; we get those compounds largely from the diet. Particularly at this time of year, we may be interested in foods to support our immune function and our mental health. Vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection. Sources of Vitamin C include red bell peppers and of course oranges. 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. 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
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
Bladder stones are exactly that, stones that form in your pet’s bladder. The more technical term is urolithiasis, which denotes the presence of uroliths in the urinary tract. These stones can develop over weeks or months, and a common question we are asked here at My Pet Nutritionist is whether dietary changes can make a difference. We thought we’d focus on what bladder stones are, the different types and whether in fact dietary management is something to consider. What Are Bladder Stones? Cats and dogs can be prone to developing urinary stones and infection. These occur when the concentration of certain minerals in your pet’s urine becomes too high (alkaline). In healthy pets, the urine pH is generally in the 6.5 to 7.0 range. If the pH is acidic (pH below 6) or alkaline (pH above 7) it may allow bacteria to thrive and for crystals or stones to form. Stones in the bladder can cause inflammation, predispose to urinary tract infections, and even cause an obstruction of the urinary tract. There are several different types of stones, and they are composed of different minerals and compounds: Struvite Calcium oxalate Urate Cystine The most common causes include: Bacteria in the urinary tract Urinary pH Minerals present in the urine Genetics Bladder inflammation Struvite Stones These stones form due to excess magnesium, ammonium and phosphorus. Normal canine urine is slightly acidic and contains waste products from metabolism. Struvite is a normal compound found in canine urine and will remain dissolved as long as the urine is acid and not too concentrated. When the urine become too concentrated or alkaline, struvite crystals form. These stones tend to form as a result of a urinary tract infection and involves an enzyme known as urease. Urease is produced by the pathogenic bacteria and breaks down urea, which is normally found in urine. In the process, excess ammonia is produced which causes the urine to become alkaline. Excess ammonia in the urine also results in bladder inflammation, contributing to the issue. These stones are generally more common in female dogs. Kidney disease, long term use of diuretic medication and PPI’s can also result in alkaline urine, predisposing the dog to struvite stones. Calcium Oxalate Stones The current line of thinking is that urine high in calcium, citrates, or oxalates and is acidic predisposes a dog to developing calcium oxalate urinary crystals and stones. Recent studies have shown diets that cause high urine acidity (urine pH less than 6.5) may predispose dogs to develop this type of bladder stone. But, like most things, there are likely other causes of calcium oxalate bladder stones too. For example, over-usage of antibiotics may reduce numbers of the intestinal bacteria Oxalobacter formigenes whose sole nutrient is oxalate. In dogs with low populations of Oxalobacter, excess oxalate is secreted in the urine, increasing the likelihood that calcium oxalate crystals and stones can form if the urine is highly concentrated or becomes acidic. Calcium oxalate uroliths are noted more commonly in male dogs and the breeds most diagnosed with both struvite and calcium oxalate bladder stones included Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Lhasa Apso, and Yorkshire Terrier. Urate Stones Urate stones are generally caused by a genetic condition in some dog breeds like Dalmatians, Jack Russel Terriers and Bulldogs. But they are also seen with liver disease, especially in dogs or cats with liver shunts. Urate stones are made from compounds called purines. Purines are one of the most common chemical compounds on the planet. There are both endogenous and exogenous. Exogenous purines are absorbed by the body through the foods eaten, and endogenous purines are made by the body itself. Purines and pyrimidines are the two families of nitrogenous base that make up nucleic acids – in short, they are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Purines have a number of functions in the body: Signalling molecule Provide energy Control cell growth Part of essential coenzymes Contribute to nervous system function (including neuronal development) As you can see, purines perform many important functions in the cell, and so the balance between its synthesis and degradation is essential. When purines are catabolised, the result is uric acid. In all other mammals, apart from humans and Dalmatians, uric acid is then converted to allantoin, which is a very soluble excretion product. For us humans and those unlucky dogs, we excrete uric acid through the kidneys (with some excreted through the gastrointestinal tract). Uric acid is suggested to behave as a potent antioxidant. It is also thought to maintain blood pressure under low salt conditions and has been seen to function as an anti-inflammatory in certain diseases, but when levels become too high, in a condition known as hyperuricemia, problems can ensue. In humans, this can result in diseases such as kidney stones and gout and may cause hypertension. In those unlucky dogs, high uric acid levels result in bladder stones. For this reason, a low purine diet is often suggested for those pets suffering urate stones. Foods High in Purines Organs/offal (brain, heart, liver, kidneys) Wild or Farmed Game Herring Mackerel Trout Sardines Sprats Legumes (such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas) Foods Lower in Purines Green leafy vegetables (except spinach) Eggs Nuts Muscle meats from chicken, turkey, lamb, pork, beef, Fruits If urate stones are associated with liver disease, you may want to learn more about liver disease in our other blogs. Liver Disease Liver Shunts Foods to Feed in Liver Disease Cystine Stones This is rarer in the dog, but it can occur. This is when bladder stones are composed of cystine crystals, and it is largely genetic. They are more commonly found in the following breeds: Mastiff Saluki Puli Basset Hound Dachshunds Findings Here Cystine is an amino acid that is freely filtered in urine and almost completely reabsorbed by the kidney tubules. Sadly, an inborn error of metabolism causes high concentrations of urinary cystine in those affected dogs. These stones also form in acidic environments and in
Being Global Prebiotic Week and something we are asked about regularly here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d explore the key differences between all those biotics! When we’re presented with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics, it’s hard to know where to start and if they even do a thing! So let’s get cracking. Prebiotics and probiotics are often thought of as one and the same, but their commonalities end with their role in the intestine. Prebiotics are fibre that feed the beneficial microorganisms residing in the intestine. Probiotics are live microorganisms that when ingested, can enhance intestinal microbial balance. Why is this important? The microbiome is an important modifier of disease and an essential component of immunity. Dysbiosis of the many microbiomes have been associated with a range of disorders. Your Puppy’s Microbiome What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis Your Pet’s Immune System So, caring for the ecosystem found in the gut is of paramount importance. Prebiotics and Gut Health The most commonly considered prebiotics are classified as soluble fibres. They were first introduced as a functional food in 1995 by Marcel Roberfroid, but in 2007 Roberfroid clarified that only two classes of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) meet the full definition of a prebiotic. These are oligofructose and inulin. Oligofructose is a 2-8–chain fructose-based saccharide molecule that undergoes fermentation in the colon, providing nourishment to the bacteria found there. Inulin is a longer 9-64–chain fructose-based saccharide that is fermented more slowly, benefiting bacteria further down in the digestive system. It can also be broken down into FOS by intestinal bacteria to provide both FOS and inulin. These 2 fibres are considered minimally digestible because of the β bond–based connections of the fructose molecules. It is thought that dogs and cats lack the intestinal enzyme needed to break down the β bond and so they usually break down α saccharide bonds. The resident bacteria can break the β bond, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) known as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. SCFA’s have a range of roles for host health including: Energy source of intestinal cells Promote gut integrity Lower colonic pH Stimulate sodium and water absorption In addition, you may also find prebiotics containing the following: Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) – from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) – found in dairy, beans and root vegetables Probiotics and Health Rather than encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing the growth of pathogenic bacteria, probiotics are thought to introduce beneficial bacteria into the environment. It is considered that the best use for these products is treatment of GI disease, such as diarrhoea and other GI abnormalities, including inflammatory bowel disease. The more we are learning about probiotic use, the more we are realising that the benefits associated are bacterial strain specific. What this means is the devil is in the detail. In addition, to function as a probiotic, the bacteria must: Survive the acid and bile in the GI tract Adhere to intestinal cells or colonise areas within the tract Exclude pathogenic adherence Produce acids, or other compounds which antagonise the growth of pathogens Be safe, non-invasive, non-carcinogenic and non-pathogenic The primary bacterial populations included in probiotics that have been seen to benefit both cats and dogs are lactic acid bacteria, especially lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and enterococci. Postbiotics and Health Postbiotics are the bioactive compounds that probiotic bacteria produce when they consume prebiotic fibre. They are technically the waste products of probiotic bacteria and SCFA’s are one kind, along with: Enzymes Cell wall fragments Metabolites like vitamins and minerals Postbiotics are a relatively new concept, but they have been associated with a range of benefits: Postbiotics like butyrate (SCFA) can stimulate the production of regulatory T cells in the intestine, supporting immune function Cell wall fragments can increase the production of anti-inflammatory chemical messengers known as cytokines that help reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses Increased levels of butyrate have been associated with improved clinical outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease How Do We Get Them? It’s easy to reach for supplements, but certain foods already possess biotic properties. Sources of Prebiotics: Mushrooms Chicory Root Garlic Asparagus Dandelion Greens Bananas Sources of Probiotics: Fermented foods contain naturally occurring probiotics; but remember that prebiotics aren’t fussy about which bacteria they feed, so they could also feed harmful bacteria and yeast. Fermented foods can also be an issue for those dogs suffering SIBO or yeast infections. Bacterial Overgrowth Is Your Dog a Yeasty Beast Supplementation may be appropriate in certain cases, but as we have noted, benefits are often strain-specific and it’s essential to read the label fully if your dog suffers with sensitivities. Does My Dog Need a Prebiotic, Probiotic or Postbiotic? We would always advocate a food first approach, so offering a fresh whole-food diet, full of variety. But in tending to the ecosystem, which is a great modifier of disease, it’s important to not only include things of benefit, but avoid things of detriment too. The issue is when the bacteria populations in the gut get a little out of whack. We need to avoid those things that can cause imbalances between the good and bad guys in the gut: Overuse of antibiotics Proton pump inhibitors Antihistamines Poor motility Digestive disorders Poor pancreatic function Inflammation in the gut Stress Environmental toxins Dietary choices Poor liver function What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis The inclusion of prebiotic foods is relatively easy to do, and either pre or probiotic supplementation may or may not be appropriate for your pet, but as you can see, it’s never as clear cut as we would like. Luckily, here at My Pet Nutritionist we look at everything that is going on for your pet and what may be compromising their health. Using this information, we develop a bespoke plan to get them on the right track. Check out our services if you would like to know more. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
