We know that physical exercise is one of the pillars of health for our canine friends but getting outside, benefits both them and us in more ways than one. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we advocate a holistic approach to health and well-being, so let’s go a little off the beaten track, and take a step back from nutrition per se for a moment. Did you know that being in nature reduces scores of anxiety and depression? 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. What the data says: 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 Findings here Findings here Findings here Not only that, but it is thought that exposure to green spaces reduces the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death and high blood pressure. Findings here Spending time outside is also beneficial for our microbiomes. Nature and The Microbiome The skin can be seen as an ecosystem, composed of living biological and physical components occupying diverse habitats. Disruptions of this ecosystem can result in skin in disorders or infections. These issues call the immune system to action, creating inflammation. Sadly, chronic inflammation is linked to a range of issues throughout the body. Exposure to toxins can disrupt this ecosystem, but it can become imbalanced simply by not having exposure to enough of the “good guys!” We can find these good guys outside, in nature. It is well established that those who live in rural locations possess more diverse bacteria on their skin. But this similarly applies to the microbiome found in the lungs too! A particular study wanted to explore the impact of nature on allergic disease suffered in the lungs. Two groups of mice were housed, one group with potted soil, one with sterile bedding. Mice who had lived on clean bedding were more susceptible to developing lung inflammation in response to asthma-triggering allergens than those housed with soil! As an aside, in this particular study, those housed with soils also scored lower on standard stress tests. Findings here In short, what is concluded is that exposure to soil supports immune tolerance and stress resilience. It is clear that being in nature is beneficial to both our physical and mental health – not only for the rewards of movement. The same applies to our dogs. Nature and Our Dogs We know that exercise improves cardiovascular health and more, but we don’t always have to exercise our dogs when outside. Yes, we said it. Stick with us a moment. Dogs use their nose to explore their environment, and what is particularly interesting is that after activity, their sniffing capacity significantly reduces. Findings here This also applies if they are stressed,stress results in the same physiological responses as activity in many ways. Therefore, it’s clear that getting outside and allowing your dog to “just be” and explore their environment, is of benefit to them. If we return to those studies on mice – as dogs sniff, they are exposing themselves to more diverse bacteria, which could potentially support their immune tolerance. Nose breathing also stimulates the vagus nerve, which as we know is the chief of the parasympathetic nervous system – this is why we often hear that allowing a dog to sniff lowers their heart rate. The simple exposure to soils through their paws and fur can also be of benefit to their whole body. Dogs groom themselves, so the soil they have walked through, is then potentially ingested. The good bugs can help support a diverse community, but this same mechanism occurs with soil laced in pesticide and exposure to harmful pesticides can result in dysbiosis. This is one of the main concerns facing us. Many countries are managing to significantly reduce their usage of pesticides, but others are increasing it. For example, Armenia have seen a 2650% increase in pesticide use since 1990. USA have seen a 125% increase in use. In the UK, we have reduced usage by 34%! Findings here If you would like to explore more about how pesticides and more affect the microbiomes in our dogs, check out our blogs here, And here. On the subject of toxins – rural air has significantly less air pollution than that found in urban locations. It is believed that half of the world’s population are exposed to increasing levels. Findings here Trees remove pollutants from the air and plants are often seen as the “lungs” of an ecosystem because they absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen. They also act as an ecosystem’s “liver,” filtering atmospheric pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide through their leaves. Trees are particularly effective at removing particulate matter (PM). PM comes in the form of tiny particles of organic chemicals, acids, metals and dust which are emitted from fossil-fuel-burning vehicles and factories, as well as construction sites. The largest of these particles measure up to 10 micrometers across (known as PM10s), which is around a fifth of the width of a human hair. There are also PM2.5s, measuring 2.5 micrometres across, being even smaller nanoparticle pollution. Fine particulate matter can easily permeate the respiratory system, causing lung and cardiovascular issues, but it has also been linked to inflammation and heart disease, so reduced exposure is particularly important and trees can help us here! Summary It is clear that spending time in nature ticks all boxes for all our bodily systems; it supports immune function, cardiovascular health, mental health and more! Dog walks as exercise are necessary – but dog walks in nature are
Being the most common clinical condition in adult dogs, periodontal disease raises the flag on why dental care is so important in optimal canine health. Sadly, here at My Pet Nutritionist, we see it, a lot. 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. These bacteria can also travel to other parts of the body, causing a range of additional health concerns. So, let’s look at periodontal disease in more detail and what we can do to prevent it! But, before we get to the diseased mouth, let’s take a look at a healthy mouth. The Canine Mouth Puppies are born without teeth and they then develop 28 of them. They will shed these between 4-6 months of age as their 42 adult teeth erupt. A dog will possess: incisors canines premolars and molars Incisors are used for cutting food; dogs have 6 upper (maxilla) and 6 lower (mandible). Next come the canines, which are used to grab and tear food, there are 2 canines in the mandible and 2 in the maxilla. The premolars are used for chewing, tearing, and biting; there are 8 in both the mandible and maxilla. Finally, molars are used to crush food; dogs have 4 in the maxilla and in the mandible. Teeth in fact provide the first step of digestion, but over their lifetime and in consideration of genetics and poor hygiene, many dogs will lose most, or all of their teeth. Dental Disease From the moment a tooth erupts it is exposed to food, saliva, and bacteria. Periodontal disease occurs when there is a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which forms plaque. Eventually,this hardens to form tartar. This can sit in the gum line causing inflammation, known as gingivitis. Left untreated, further harm occurs which results in periodontitis, where teeth fall out and damage can occur to the surrounding bone. Signs your dog has dental disease: Bad breath Pawing at his mouth Reluctance to eat Food or toys will have blood on them Smaller breeds are statistically more likely to suffer with periodontal disease, as are brachycephalic breeds. Their teeth are often closer together which means food and bacteria can more easily get stuck. But what is also interesting is that it is generally accepted that the inflammation and resulting tissue damage is due to an improperly regulated immune response to bacterial infection, and not solely from the bacterial pathogens themselves. This suggests that if your dog already has immune mediated health concerns, then they may be at a higher risk of dental disease. Findings here The point to make is that gingivitis is thought to be reversible, whereas periodontitis is not. 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). Studies have also shown that periodontal disease is linked to increased insulin resistance and kidney, and liver issues. Findings here All things considered, prevention is certainly better than cure, so what can we do? 1) Avoid ultra-processed refined foods Ultra-processed food is defined as any food that undergoes multiple processes like extrusion and milling. They may also contain added ingredients that are highly manipulated. Sadly, many dry based dog foods fall directly under this definition. In human Hunter-gatherer studies, it is demonstrated that cavities and gum disease were a rarity, and this remains in modern times; Aboriginals living a traditional lifestyle do not generally get dental disease until they adopt a Western diet. There are a number of reasons for this. The mouth, just like the gut contains its own microbiome. It is a community of microbes that maintain balance; the good guys can keep the bad guys in check. Not only do ultra-processed foods skew the balance in the mouth, but they do also the same in the remainder of the digestive tract. As we know, the gut houses much immune tissue, and so it does in fact train the immune response. As we mentioned early, it is thought that much of the damage originating in the mouth is due to an improperly regulated immune response and not solely the bacterial pathogens themselves. For this reason, we would advocate the removal of an ultra-processed diet for oral and gut microbiome health. For more information on the microbiome in your dog, check out our blog here. 2) Dental Sticks 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 to scrape deposits off the teeth. 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 Raw bones lead the way in reducing bacteria,and the added bonus? You know exactly what you are feeding. There is no long list of ingredients to consider. If you are opting for raw bones, ensure they are a manageable size for your dog; chicken necks and wings are a great place to start if you’ve never fed them before! If you’d learn to learn more about the benefits of chewing for your dog, check out our blog here. 3) Diet It is thought that periodontal disease may be related to
We all understand the importance of taking our dog for that daily walk – not only to provide physical exercise, but to sniff, play and have a stroke from the neighbours. Yet, what we sometimes forget, is the importance of mental stimulation for our faithful friends. Not only are brain games known to help ward off cognitive decline, which is crucial for our ageing pets but brain games help reduce stress and manage anxious behaviours too! Findings here Time and time again,when given the choice, animals will always choose a more complex environment. So, as we look to support optimal health in all ways we can here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d compile some of our favourite brain games for dogs! 1) Name Game! Here, we are teaching our dog the name of all his toys. Encourage your dog to retrieve one of his toys. As soon as he collects it, label the toy, “ball!” “rope!” etc. Repeat and praise as he retrieves it. Start with one or two toys. If he doesn’t falter to retrieve the correct toy, introduce more toys. This game is testing his memory as well as his recognition. This game is perfect for those toy orientated dogs – providing they don’t choose to run off with the toy and ignore you. If this happens, calmly ignore them until they return. Remember, you are praising and providing attention for the behaviour you want to see! You can always use this game to introduce tidy up time – as you ask your dog to retrieve specific toys, hold your hands over an allocated storage box. As he brings the toy to the box, label the behaviour “tidy!” Praise and reward. 2) Spin the bottle! Perfect for those food orientated pooches. You will need: A sturdy plastic bottle (we know it’s not eco, but not so bad if you are able to recycle) A cross bar – a piece of doweling or bamboo Pierce holes on opposite sides of the bottle – large enough so you can push the cross bar through. You should be able to hold the cross bar and the bottle will spin around on the bar. Put some small treats into the plastic bottle to start with, so it’s easy for your dog in the first attempt. Food orientated pooches will immediately sniff out the treats in the bottle and attempt to get them out. They need to learn to spin the bottle, so the treats fall out. Once they have figured out the basic idea of the game, you can make it more difficult by using a range of sized treats, so some fall out quite easily, others don’t. Or you can move you hands to the cross bar and provide some resistance as they spin the bottle. Remember to make allowance for any additional food/treats in allocated mealtimes. It can soon add up! 3) Gone Potty Another one for those food orientated pooches and another one to make them think. What you will need: High value treats 3 plastic plant pots Start with one pot upside down and place a treat underneath it. Allow your dog to watch you place the treat. Encourage your dog to knock the pot over to get to the treat. Introduce another plant pot – allowing your dog to watch which pot you put the treat under. Eventually, you can be working with the three plant pots. Your dog has to figure out where the treat is – he may have watched you, or he may have sniffed it out. Watch for impatient dogs who just knock all the pots over to find it; a different game may be best for them; brains over brawn after all! 4) Shy Dog! What you will need: Post it notes Treats Place a post-it-note on your dog’s nose. He should instinctively paw at it to remove it. As he does, praise and reward him. Repeat. Don’t worry if he removes it, just apply another one. As he paws to remove the note, label the behaviour “shy dog” or whichever command you think fits. Repeat. Eventually, he should be a shy dog, on command. 5) Treasure Hunt A super-easy brain game is the good old treasure hunt. First of all, figure out which reward your dog places a higher value on. Offer him food and toy rewards on the ground. Watch the reward he chooses first. This will be your treasure. Whichever he opts for, you are going to hide it around your home. Place treats/toys behind cushions,curtains, under tables or stools, behind doors, in boxes etc. Just be mindful that you place the treasure where it’s safe to access and you’re sure your dog won’t just barge their way around your home to find it! You may have to show your dog where you are hiding the treasure when you first introduce this game, just until they get the hang of it. You can build tidy up time into this game if you are using toys too! Inadequate mental stimulation can present in many ways from pacing and destruction to self-licking and self-harm. To support our dog’s health and well-being, we need to provide for both his physical and emotional needs. Brain games are a great place to start! Whilst we may conjure up images of our dog’s equivalent of Sudoku, brain games simply provide cognitive challenge. The important thing is to provide just enough challenge – if your dog seems disinterested, try a different game, if they seem frustrated, end the session with something you know they can do, and try to approach the game in a different way next session. As Ignacio Estrada poignantly suggested, “if a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” The same applies to our dogs. Thanks for reading! Team MPN x
Is it true that DNA is our destiny? This concept is much like Schrodinger’s cat – a paradox. With Schrodinger, his cat was both alive and dead until his box was opened. With our DNA, we can blame our Grandma for something that has gone wrong, but equally how we choose to live our lives can also affect whether or not we have something to blame Grandma for. Are you lost yet? So were we. But here at My Pet Nutritionist, we like to give you, as pet owners tools to support your pet’s health, so we’ll give you the 411 on DNA and how we can use nutrition to lessen how much we blame Grandma for (or Grandad, could be him too!) Pretty nifty, don’t you think? This is what we call nutrigenomics. Let’s start off with some key definitions: Genomics: This is the study of all genes and gene products. It explores how they interact and influence biological pathways, networks and physiology. Nutrigenomics are therefore a subset of genomics with focus on the genes that relate and respond to nutrition and lifestyle interventions. As it’s relevant, epigenetics is the study of how the environment and other factors can change the way that genes are expressed. Epigenic markers are chemical compounds that are added to genes to regulate their activity. Whilst these modifications do not change theDNA sequence itself, epigenetics affects how cells read genes and whether the cells should produce relevant proteins. The point to note is that DNA doesn’t change – gene expression does. This is where the idea of turning genes on and off comes from – epigenetic markers can turn genes on, and off. Gene Writers Much like I’m writing this blog now, we can think of our DNA having workers at a word document. The fact that I had a nutrient dense breakfast and have a cup of tea next to me, with the birds singing by my window, places me in good working conditions. The blog should therefore make sense – be well-formatted and do the job it is meant to do (share information). If I had not slept for days, gorged on ultra-processed food, and been bombarded with stressors, the blog may not make as much sense, it may even have a few typos, and not in fact do you the job it was meant to (you have no clue what I was writing about). Our gene workers are similar. If they have supportive working conditions,they do what they are supposed to, they send the correct information out; cells know what they are supposed to do, and they even know when they’re not supposed to be doing anything. If they have poor working conditions, they send out half finished messages (or coding), which may contain typos; cells don’t really know what they are supposed to be doing and start to go a little rogue. The genome is malleable – our genes are like a word document – it is a living document. They also eavesdrop on every choice we make, or those we make for our pets. Dirty Genes and those that just act Dirty The reason we think DNA is destiny, is because its partly true. When us, or our pets are born, we have our very own DNA. Within that, there may be these alterations, or variants known as single nucleotide polymorphism (or SNPs, we call them snips). These SNPs can cause problems – they are like the inbuilt typos on your word document. Like the Microsoft paperclip assistant that would always pop up no matter how many times you tried to get rid of him! So, both us and our dogs can be born with dirty genes that send unclear messages to our cells. But, lifestyle, and nutrition, can also make the genes dirty. Luckily, we live in an age of washing machines, so we’ve got some great ways to clean them up again! One of the ways in which our DNA expression can be altered is through methylation. This is the addition of a methyl group – demethylation is the removal of a methylation group. Methylation is a key chemical process for every cell and cellular activity, constantly and dynamically regulating our daily function. It supports growth and repair, immune function, synthesis of neurotransmitters and phospholipids, and plays an important role in detoxification. If you’d like to know more about detoxification then check out our blog here. But what is also nifty is this positioning of the methyl groups can be passed down from generation to generation – which ultimately affects the health of future generations. Take note breeders! Poor DNA methylation has been increasingly associated with many diseases, from cancer to autoimmunity. And of course, this process requires a number of co-factors. Where do these co-factors come from? The Diet. Nutrients crucial in DNA Methylation: Folate: spinach, broccoli, romaine lettuce, daikon radish, liver. Vitamin B12: liver, sardines, salmon, lamb, beef, dairy, all meat,eggs. Vitamin B6: spinach, cauliflower, all meat, liver, sweet potato, salmon, leafy greens, daikon radish, liver. Vitamin B2: spinach, beetroot, mushrooms, eggs, broccoli, kale,peppers, daikon radish, liver. Zinc: beef, spinach, mushrooms, lamb, pumpkin seeds, turkey,seafood. Magnesium: leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, spinach, sunflower seeds,daikon radish. Choline: egg, collard greens, brussels sprouts, spinach, chicken, turkey, salmon, sardines, beef. Betaine: spinach, sweet potato, turkey, veal, beef, liver. Methionine: nuts, beef, lamb, turkey, fish, shellfish, eggs. Not surprisingly, ultra-refined foods place a strain on methylation, which is why we would always advocate a fresh, wholefood diet for your pet. So if you want efficient methylation processes – ensuring a sufficient supply of these co-factors is essential. There are also certain food compounds which ultimately affect gene expression through their influence on DNA methylation. This is where the concept of nutrigenomics comes in. Polyphenols Catechins have been seen to modulate gene expression. They are polyphenolic compounds found in plants. Sources include apples, blackberries,pears, green tea (opt for decaf if you’re feeding it to your dog). They also exhibit antioxidants
Puppy Nutrition 101 The dog is unique amongst other mammals in that it has the widest range of normal adult body weight within one species. Many breeds will reach 50% of their adult size within 5-6 months. Some breeds will be fully grown by 8-12 months, some 12-18 months, and others 18-24 months. With this incredible range, it’s no surprise that puppyhood is in fact a very sensitive period, and one that we need to get right. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we are incredibly lucky that we support many owners in choosing the right nutritional plan for their growing puppy. But we thought we’d compile a brief guide to some of the most important things to consider for the growing puppy. Growth and Development After nursing, post-weaning growth is the most nutritionally demanding period in a dog’s life. For large and giant breeds, the length and speed of their growth poses an even higher nutritional demand. By maturity, most dogs will have increased their birth weight by 40-50 times. How amazing is this? But it also poses something to be very conscious of. Physical Growth How are bones formed? Also known as ossification, bone formation is a process where new bone is produced. Look at any large breed and it is clear to see how much new bone needs to be produced from birth to full skeletal maturity. Bone starts as a cartilage model which gets slowly replaced. Osteoblasts are the cells that form new bone. They secrete osteoids. Osteoid tissue is simply unmineralised bone tissue. Soon after the osteoid is laid down,inorganic salts are deposited which forms the hardened material that we know as bone. These inorganic salts include calcium and phosphorus. Bone formation proceeds outwards from ossification centres; short bones tend to have one in the middle whereas long bones typically have three, one at each end and one in the middle. Ossification, or bone formation continues until there is a thin strip of cartilage left at each end of the bone. This is known as the epiphyseal plate, or growth plate in the dog world. When the bone reaches full adult maturity, the cartilage is replaced with bone and“sealed” for want of a better word. It is therefore no surprise that certain minerals are necessary for physical bone growth, along with some vitamins. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body; the majority of which is contained in the skeleton. Phosphorus is the next most abundant; also found in bone. Although they have separate functions within the body, being so closely interrelated, they are usually considered together. Calcium is involved in constriction and dilation of blood vessels, nerve impulse transmission, muscle contractions(including the heart), secretion of hormones and blood coagulation. It also plays a role in fluid balance in cells (contributing to homeostasis). A diet grossly inadequate in calcium, results in hypocalcemia. The body will remove calcium from bones to ensure normal cell function in the rest of the body. This leads to weakened bones. Hypercalcemia is a little more uncommon, but it is most often linked with overactive parathyroid gland function. Phosphorus is essential in cell growth and differentiation, energy use and transfer, fatty acid transport and amino acid and protein formation. In general, phosphorus is better absorbed from meat products than plant products. Phosphorus found in meat is mainly in its organic form; in plants it is in the form of phytic acid. Phytic acid impairs the absorption of iron,zinc and calcium and has been linked to mineral deficiencies. It is often referred to as an anti-nutrient. Deficiencies of calcium and phosphorus are unusual, but imbalance is noted. In unbalanced diets, calcium deficiency can develop alongside high levels of phosphorus. Low calcium levels stimulate the release of parathyroid hormone, which increases the production of the active form of Vitamin D. This results in an increased bone reabsorption to restore calcium levels. This eventually leads to bone demineralisation and a loss of bone mass. In dogs, this is more commonly noticed in the mandibles (jaw bones), leading to tooth loss and periodontal disease. Attention is most often paid to the calcium:phosphorus ratio. The note to make is that organic sources of both minerals are slowly and less efficiently absorbed; so, in fresh fed dogs this is less of a concern in terms of excess. Phosphorus found in meat products however is more efficiently absorbed than that found in plants. Findings here Other nutrients relevant to skeletal development include vitamin D, vitamin A, copper, zinc and manganese. Deficiency or excess in these have regularly been linked to abnormal orthopaedic development. But, as we know, it is not just the bones in puppies that grow – it is in fact every part of their body! What do puppies need to grow? Protein Proteins are large, complex molecules composed of hundreds to thousands of amino acids. They are literally the building blocks of the body. Protein is required in the diet to provide a source of amino acids to build, repair and replace body proteins. Proteins in the body have numerous functions. Major structural components of hair, skin, nails, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Hormones are composed of protein molecules – these include insulin and glucagon which are key to maintaining blood sugar levels. Proteins are found in the blood– for example haemoglobin carries oxygen between the lungs and cells,lipoproteins carry fats throughout the body and transferrin carries iron through the blood. Proteins are also found in the immune system in the form of immunoglobulins to make the antibodies that provide resistance to disease. All proteins are in a constant state of renewal and degradation and during growth (or reproduction) additional protein is needed for the creation of new tissue. High rates of protein synthesis occur in: The production of red and white blood cells Epithelial cells of the skin and those lining the GI tract and pancreas Digestion of Protein Dietary amino acids are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, following disruption of their structure. They are then transported
If you spotted our My Pet Nutritionist blog last week, then you’ll notice that we didn’t really discuss the lymphatic system with the immune system, despite them being intricately linked. It’s because this system deserves a blog all of its own. So, let’s take a look at what it is and what it does! The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs which help the body eliminate toxins, waste, and other unwanted compounds. It is like the sewer system for the body. But it also plays a role in immune function. Like the blood system, the lymphatic system is made up of many vessels that branch all around the body. It is a subset of both the circulatory and immune system. Without it, neither of them would function. The lymphatic system includes: Lymph – a fluid that moves all around the lymph system. It contains a type of white blood cell known as lymphocytes. Lymphocytes – these are white blood cells that fight infection and disease. Lymph vessels – these are tiny tubes that carry lymph fluid around the body. Lymph nodes – these are small, bean-shaped organs. They act as filters for the lymph fluid as it travels all over the body. Lymph nodes are found in the underarms, groin, neck, chest, and belly (abdomen). During infection, lymph nodes swell because of the multiplication of lymphocytes multiplying inside. Function of the Lymphatic System A major function of the lymphatic system is to drain body fluids and return them to the bloodstream. Blood pressure causes leakage of fluid from the capillaries, resulting in the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space—that is, spaces between individual cells in the tissues. This is where the lymphatic system comes into play. It drains the excess fluid and empties it back into the bloodstream via a series of vessels, trunks, and ducts. But as we mentioned, it also plays a role in the immune function of the host. The lymphatic system is a sort of immune surveillance system. It protects us against pathogens. Our dogs are constantly being invaded by bacteria and viruses; they take them up through food, they breathe them in, and they get in through wounds in our skin.These pathogens must be removed by the immune system. Because the lymphatic system is constantly filtering the contents of the body it collects these micro-organisms which have been engulfed by immune cells and carries them to the lymph nodes. Within the lymph nodes there are T cells and B cells which recognise these pathogens and which multiple in response. So, the lymphatic system acts as a collecting system and therefore an integral part of the immune system. Another role of the lymphatic system is the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and the subsequent transport of these substances into circulation. The mucosa that lines the small intestine is covered with finger like projections called villi. There are blood capillaries and special lymph capillaries, called lacteals, in the centre of each villus. The blood capillaries absorb most nutrients, but the fats and fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed by the lacteals. The lymph in the lacteals has a milky appearance due to its high fat content and is called chyle. Organs and Tissues of Interest The primary lymphoid organs are the bone marrow, spleen, and thymus gland. Tonsils are known as lymphoid nodules. The lymphoid organs are where lymphocytes mature, proliferate, and are selected, which enables them to attack pathogens without harming the cells of the body. As we explored in the guide to the immune system, lymphocytes are the primary cells of adaptive immune responses. The two basic types are B and T cells – B cells maturing in the bone marrow, and T cells maturing in the thymus. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue in the middle of the bigger bones in the body. The bone marrow makes blood cells from stem cells. These are undeveloped cells that can divide and grow into different types of blood cells needed by the body including red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells. This is where lymphocytes are made. The thymus is in the thoracic cavity, just under the neck. It’s made up of two lobes of lymphoid tissue. Each lobe has a medulla surrounded by a cortex. The cortex is where immature lymphocytes first go to become T cells, but their maturation finishes in the medulla. The spleen is in the upper-left part of the abdomen. It is tucked up under the ribs. The spleen’s main function is to filter the blood. It removes old or damaged red blood cells, which are phagocytised by macrophages. The spleen also detects viruses and bacteria and triggers the release of lymphocytes. But as the main entry for microbes into the body is through mucosal surfaces, most of the lymphoid tissue is located within the lining of the respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary tracts. These are known as MALT and GALT. MALT is mucosa associated lymphoid tissues, and GALT is gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Tonsils are an example of MALT. The tonsils are masses of lymphoid tissue found in the back of the throat and nasal cavity. Tonsillitis is when they become swollen and typically a sign of infection. Peyer Patches within the small intestine are also MALT. They are like the tonsils for the digestive system. The function of Peyer’s Patches is to analyse and respond to pathogenic microbes in the ileum. They trap foreign particles survey them and then destroy. What can go wrong with the lymphatic system? Enlarged (swollen) lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy): Enlarged lymph nodes are caused by infection, inflammation, or cancer. Swelling or accumulation of fluid (lymphedema): Lymphedema can result from a blockage in the lymphatic system caused by scar tissue from damaged lymph vessels or nodes. Cancers of the lymphatic system: Lymphoma is cancer of the lymph nodes and occurs when lymphocytes grow and multiply uncontrollably. For dogs, lymphoma can arise in the skin. Summary The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections. It is made up
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we know that every cell has a job to do, and it needs certain nutrients to do those jobs. The cells of the immune system have a particularly important job to do and so they too need to be fuelled properly. So, we’ve collated our top foods that you can add to the bowl to support immune function in your dog. The list is not in order of importance, just simple options to pop in! 1) Red Bell Peppers Red bell peppers contain almost three times the amount of Vitamin C that an Orange does! We all know that oranges are touted for their immune supporting functions, but citrus fruits can sometimes cause some digestive discomfort for our furry friends (not all though). Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which as you know if you read our guide to the immune system, they help protect the body against infection. 2) Broccoli Broccoli is packed full of vitamins and minerals. You will find vitamins A, C and E, fibre and antioxidants in these little green trees! Vitamin A helps maintain structural and functional integrity of mucosal cells in innate barriers (skin, respiratory tract etc). It is also important for the functioning of natural killer cells, macrophages, and neutrophils. In the adaptive immune response, vitamin A is necessary for the functioning of T and B cells and therefore for the generation of antibody responses to an antigen. Vitamin A also supports the Th2 anti-inflammatory response. Broccoli also contains a phytochemical called Indole-3-Carbinol. This compound is formed from a substance called glucobrassicin found in broccoli and other brasscia vegetables such as brussels sprouts, cabbage, collards, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens and turnips. Indole-3-carbinol is formed when these vegetables are cut, chewed or lightly cooked and show some exciting new research on their anti-cancer effect. Findings here The Ultimate Raw Feeding Guide for Dogs Rich in Vitamin C, it is also packed full of antioxidants like beta carotene. Not that you would know it because the chlorophyll hides the yellow-orange pigment. Beta carotene is converted toVitamin A in the body but beta carotene, like all carotenoids is an antioxidant, which protects the body from free radicals. Free radicals are produced by macrophages whilst fighting off invading germs, and these free radicals can then damage healthy cells leading to inflammation, so a diet rich in antioxidants can help mitigate the damage! Best to lightly cook spinach before you offer it to your dog though! 4) Turmeric This bright yellow spice has been used for years as an anti-inflammatory, but it is also known as an immunomodulator. It interacts with dendritic cells, macrophages and both B and T cells. But it also interacts with cytokines and this is why we generally note it’s role in the inflammatory response. The inclusion of turmeric has been seen to increase antibodies to particular antigens and overall, it is seen to improve both innate and adaptive immune function. 5) Poultry There’s a reason why you were always told to eat chicken soup if you felt under the weather! Poultry like chicken and turkey is high in vitamin B6. In the innate immune system, vitamin B6 helps regulate inflammation and has roles in cytokine production and natural killer cell activity. In the adaptive immunity system, vitamin B6 plays a role in the metabolism of amino acids, which are the building blocks of cytokines and antibodies. B6 is also involved in lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation and maturation and it maintains Th1 immune responses. Stock or broth made by boiling chicken bones is also a great option and contains gelatin, chondroitin and other nutrients that are helpful in gut healing in immune function. 6) Shellfish Many types of shellfish are packed full of zinc and this is a particular powerhouse when it comes to immune function. It has antioxidant effects protecting against reactive oxygen species, it helps modulate cytokine release and also helps maintain skin and mucosal membrane integrity (that first line of defence). In the adaptive immune response, zinc has a central role in cellular growth and differentiation of immune cells. It plays a role in T cell development and activation and supports the Th1 response. Cooked mussels are a great addition to your dog’s bowl and are easily picked up in the supermarket. 7) Mushrooms! Not only are mushrooms a great source of B vitamins, but they contain the less talked about mineral selenium. There are such things known as selenium-dependent enzymes which can act as redox regulators and antioxidants; so,selenium can help protect against free radicals too! Not only that but selenium is involved in T cell proliferation and it also has a role in antibody production. Lightly cook mushrooms before offering them to you dog and check out the range of species that have additional health benefits too! 8) Kale One of the leafy greens, kale is rich in folate, or vitamin B9. B vitamins are required to convert food into energy and the demands placed upon the body during sickness can mean more of a demand on this process. Not only that but folate plays a role in maintaining natural killer cells and plays a role in mounting a sufficient antibody response to antigens. Folate also supports Th1 mediated immune responses. In cases of folate deficiency, immune function is often impaired. Low Fat Kangaroo 9) Liver! Whether you opt for cooked or raw, liver is a good source of vitamin D. We find vitamin D receptors throughout the immune system which demonstrates the role it plays in its function. Vitamin D stimulates immune cell proliferation and cytokine production and it helps protect against infection caused by pathogens. It also demonstrates an inhibitory effect in adaptive immunity, suggesting that it is in fact an immune modulator. This is often why we notice increased cases of autoimmunity where there is low vitamin D.
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we often find that in many cases, immune function in some pets has gone a little awry. Being the thing that quite literally keeps us alive, you can see, how optimal immune function is kind of important. So, we thought we’d give you a run through on its function. What is the Immune System? When the body is invaded by bacteria, a virus or parasites, an immune alarm goes off, setting off a chain reaction of cellular activity in the immune system. Specific cells are deployed to help attack the invading pathogen. Those cells often do the job, and the invader is destroyed. But sometimes, when the body needs a more sophisticated attack, it turns to a more specialised set of cells. These cells are like the special ops of the immune system—a line of defence that uses past behaviours and interactions to tell it exactly how to deal with the threat. The immune system is responsible for all of this, and not surprisingly is has many systems to mobilise action. We tend to explore the immune system in terms of innate immunity and adaptive or acquired immunity. Innate immunity is what everyone is born with – it’s a type of general protection. The innate immune system provides the first line of defence; broadly divided into physical and chemical barriers and nonspecific responses. The physical barriers include the skin and mucosa (a membrane that lines cavities in the body) of the digestive and respiratory tracts. Saliva, tears, and mucous (that sticky material) all help to provide a barrier, as does the microbiome of the skin and gut. In the gut, stomach acid also provides a first line of defence as its acidity level can kill off potentially harmful pathogens. Hair inside the nose also traps pathogens and environmental pollutants. This is where you’ll recognise the age old having something stuck up your nose when you are viciously sneezing! Pathogens that sneakily get past these first defences are then tackled by the next row of soldiers in the innate immune system. There area number of white blood cells involved in innate immunity: Monocytes which develop into macrophages Neutrophils Eosinophils Basophils Natural Killer Cells But there are also other participants: Mast Cells The Complement System Cytokines Macrophages develop from a type of white blood cell called monocytes. Monocytes become macrophages when they move from the bloodstream to the tissues. They ingest bacteria, foreign cells, damaged and dead cells. This process is called phagocytosis, and cells that do the ingesting are called phagocytes. Macrophages secrete substances that attract other white blood cells to the site of the infection. They also help T cells recognise invaders and therefore also participate in acquired immunity (which we’ll come to later). Neutrophils are among the first immune cells to defend against infection. They are phagocytes, which ingest bacteria and other foreign cells. Neutrophils contain granules that release enzymes to help kill and digest. Neutrophils also release substances that may trap bacteria, preventing them from spreading and making them easier to destroy. Eosinophils can ingest bacteria, but they also target foreign cells that are too big to ingest. Eosinophils contain granules that release enzymes and other toxic substances when non-self-cells are encountered which make holes in the target cell’s membranes. They also produce substances involved in inflammation and allergic reactions. We know this because those suffering with allergies, parasitic infections, or asthma tend to have more eosinophils in the bloodstream than those not suffering with the conditions. Natural killer cells are ready to kill as soon as they are formed. They attach to infected cells or cancer cells, they then release enzymes and other substances that damage the outer membranes of these cells. NK cells play a role in the initial defence against viral infections, and they produce cytokines that regulate some of the functions of T cells, B cells, and macrophages too! We’ll look at T and B cells later. Also involved in the inflammatory response, mast cell function resembles that of basophils in the blood. When they encounter an allergen, they release histamine. Histamine causes blood vessels to widen, thereby increasing blood flow to the area and so, we have the usual signs like redness, heat, swelling and pain associated with inflammation. The complement system consists several proteins that function in a sequence. One protein activates another,which activates another, and so on to defend against infection. This is known as the complement cascade. Complement proteins play a role in both innate and acquired immunity. They kill bacteria directly,help destroy bacteria by attaching to them, they attract macrophages and neutrophils, neutralise viruses, help immune cells remember invaders, promote antibody formation, and help the body eliminate dead cells and immune complexes. Cytokines are the messengers of the immune system. White blood cells and other cells of the immune system produce cytokines when an antigen is detected. There are many different cytokines, which affect different parts of the immune system. Some cytokines stimulate activity – asking the white blood cells to become more efficient killers, some cytokines inhibit activity, signalling an end to an immune response and some are known as interferons, which interfere with the reproduction of viruses. Cytokines also participate in acquired immunity. Acquired (adaptive or specific) immunity is not present at birth. It is learned. Its job is to learn, adapt and remember. It’s almost like a cheesy advert for a local school! Acquired immunity does take time to develop after exposure to a new antigen, but afterwards, the response is quicker and more effective! Key Definitions Antibody – Antibodies are specialised, Y-shaped proteins that bind like a lock-and-key to the body’s foreign invaders — whether they are viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites Antigen – An antigen is any substance that causes the immune system to produce antibodies against it. The white blood cells responsible for acquired immunity are Lymphocytes which include T and B cells. There is also a role for others in acquired immunity which include dendritic cells, cytokines, and the complement
What You Need To Know About The Dog’s Digestive System Here at My Pet Nutritionist, most issues that we are faced with involve the need for some form of gut healing. And so, we thought we’d pop a handy guide together, to explain the function of the digestive system, and how it all works. We like to think of it as a journey that food goes on, so, pop on your seatbelt, and come along for the ride. Gut Healt Gut health relates to the whole of the digestive tract, which officially starts in the mouth and ends with, surprisingly, the rear end, or more biologically accurate, the rectum and anus. In humans, digestion begins in the mouth. We physically break down food with our teeth, and salivary enzymes get to work. This is slightly different in the dog. The structure of their teeth means they are equipped for ripping and tearing, and then swallowing larger chunks of foods, whereas us humans have flat surface teeth made for grinding. A dog’s saliva also has a different composition to humans. Studies have demonstrated 2,532 different proteins between human and canine saliva. Canine saliva plays more of a role in protecting against inflammation and functioning as an anti-microbial. Dogs also have lower amounts of amylase than humans and there appears to be no, or very little, salivary amylase present in canine saliva. It is regularly concluded that because a dog is carnivorous, amylase activity in the species is not as dominant. Findings here For this reason, digestion in the dog really starts in the stomach. As food travels down the food pipe (oesophagus), it passes through the lower oesophageal sphincter. These sphincters are important, as they keep parts of the digestive system separate; if they don’t shut or open properly,there may be complaints like acid reflux. The stomach is like a washing machine; it physically churns food around, but it also releases enzymes, acid, and hormones to break it down into a usable form. An enzyme is a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body. Digestive enzymes speed up chemical reactions that break down food molecules into something that can be used by the body. Pepsin is an enzyme released in the stomach, from what we call chief cells. It serves to digest protein. The stomach also releases hydrochloric acid, more commonly known as stomach acid from the parietal cells. This highly acid environment causes proteins to lose their characteristic folded structure which exposes the bonds of the protein. Pepsin (having been activated by the stomach acid) can then get to work on these bonds. Stomach acid also inhibits the growth of many microorganisms which is helpful to prevent infection. Digestive hormones are also made in the stomach (and small intestine, but we’ll get there later). The two G’s are released in the stomach, being gastrin and ghrelin. Gastrin stimulates the release of stomach acid when it senses the stomach has been stretched. Ghrelin on the other hand, also produced in the stomach tells the brain that the body needs to be fed; it increases appetite. In the stomach, food is turn into a substance known as chyme, and this moves to the small intestine. The small intestine is full of tiny, carpet like projections called villi and microvilli, which increases the surface area of the organ. These projections allow for nutrient absorption. In short, they allow whatever is in the small intestine to reach circulation. The pancreas feeds into the small intestine and is like the factory of the digestive system; producing enzymes and hormones to further digest the chyme. The pancreas produces: Lipase – think lipid, breaks down fat. Protease – think protein, breaks down protein. Amylase – helps to break down starch. It also produces a range of hormones: Insulin – promotes the absorption of glucose from the blood into the liver, fat and skeletal muscle cells, Glucagon – the messenger which tells the liver to release stored sugar, Gastrin and amylin – whilst most of the G is release in the stomach, some is made in the pancreas too. Amylin helps control appetite and stomach emptying. To further assist with digestion, bile acids are made by the liver, and stored in the gallbladder. Bile is secreted into the small intestine and helps with fat digestion and absorption. To this end, they are also important for the digestion and metabolism of fat-soluble vitamins. As we move through the small intestine, we hit another gateway known as the ileocecal valve. This gateway acts like a watchdog. If it notices under-digested food coming through, it hits what we know as the ileal brake, halting the movement of the upper gut movements. This is a crucial feedback system for nutrient absorption in the small intestine. There is a link between this mechanism and peptideYY, which is produced in the last part of the small intestine known as the ileum. This hormone inhibits intestinal transit (for better absorption of nutrients) and has been associated with higher-fat levels,which is why fat in the diet is associated with higher levels of satiety. Findings here And then we are into the large intestine. The large intestine is responsible for four main things: Hydration The large intestine reabsorbs fluid and electrolytes. Here the contents from the gut turn from liquid to solid (that runny poop – hasn’t spend enough time in the large intestine for some reason). The Microbiome Here resides the microbiome. That community of microbes that is gaining a lot of attention, for good reason. There are microbes found throughout the GI tract, but the majority of them are found here. These guys can make vitamins, amino acids (building blocks of protein), hormones and chemical messengers. They train the immune system, strengthen the gut barrier, communicate with other vital organs including the brain, prevent invasion from the bad bugs, influence gut movement and function and love eating fibre! Nutrient Absorption Whilst most of this occurs in the small intestine, thanks to the
The primary two functions of the skin is to act as a protective barrier and an immune barrier, between the body and its external environment, it keeps everything in, and prevents the entry of pathogens and allergens. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have heavily focussed on the skin function and allergies so let’s take a look. A defective skin barrier is a key feature of the chronic inflammatory skin disease, atopic dermatitis and it has been noted that the protein filaggrin has a pivotal role in skin barrier function. Mutations with the FLG gene, which encodes filaggrin, strongly predisposes to conditions including atopic dermatitis and secondary allergic diseases. Whilst we always find these revelations in human literature, we have found that this also applies to dogs. So, let’s take a look at filaggrin in a little more detail and how there is a possibility that the skin issues faced by your dog may have a genetic origin. What is Filaggrin The term filaggrin, derived from filament-aggregating protein, was first coined in 1981 to describe a class of structural protein that had been isolated from the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis of the skin). Filaggrin is formed from the breakdown of profilaggrin, a protein contained in the granular layer of the upper epidermis. Filaggrin is vital for skin cells to mature properly into the tough, flat corneocytes that form the outermost protective layer of our skin known as the cornified cell envelope (CCE). It does this by binding together the rigid keratin filaments that form a structural skeleton within the cells. As a result, the cells collapse and become flattened. The CCE is constantly renewed by new cells formed in the basal layer of the epidermis. These gradually work their way to the top of the skin layers where they become corneocytes. They will then shed. Surrounding the corneocytes you will find a layer of lipids, which coat the CCE, keeping the skin waterproof, protected and supple. This also provides a protective layer, keeping out irritants and allergens. Without filaggrin, the CCE does not form correctly. Corneocytes dry out, and the lipid layer is lost. This results in dry, cracked skin and a permeability to the skin. Atopic dermatitis is characterised by these symptoms, and data has revealed an association between loss of functions of the filaggrin coding gene and this condition. In short, these conditions are more commonly noted in those with a mutant gene, than those without a mutant gene. What is particularly interesting is that the environment plays a role, not only in developing atopic disease, but also directly in FLG expression. It is regularly noted that exposure to irritants can reduce epidermal FLG levels and lead to an acquired filaggrin deficiency. The FLG deficiency, be it genetically determined or acquired, causes an altered epidermal structure and an impaired barrier function. Sadly, this allows penetration of environmental allergens into the skin, including house dust mites, pollen, bacteria, irritants, and toxicants but it also results in sensitisation of the host. The resultant alteration of the epidermis by way of increased pH, altered lipid secretion, modification of keratinocytes and reduction of antimicrobial peptides also then paves the way for the perfect environment for other bacteria and fungi to thrive, leading to recurrent skin infections, which you’ll have likely observed in cases of canine atopic dermatitis. Environmental and Inflammatory Factors known to alter the amount of Filaggrin: Humidity It seems there is a correlation between indoor humidity and disease severity. In human studies, in those children with atopic dermatitis and FLG mutations, their skin lesions are more often located in air-exposed skin areas. Interestingly, children with atopic disease experience a reduction in disease severity after one month spent in a humid climate. It seems that filaggrin and more filaggrin proteolysis is required in a dryer environment and for that reason, it is often concluded that children predisposed to atopic dermatitis should be encouraged to increase their indoor humidity. Findings here Mechanical damage Mechanical damage includes stretching, compression, and friction on skin cells. It not only affects the barrier function of the skin but also induces various immune responses, triggering inflammation at the site of the stress on the skin. For example, scratching of itchy lesions exacerbates the skin inflammation in atopic dermatitis. This increase in inflammatory mediators has been seen to down regulate filaggrin expression. Skin Irritants Studies have demonstrated that profilaggrin expression can be down regulated after application of experimental sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). In the 6 hours post exposure, it was noted that SLS in fact induced skin barrier defects. Findings here SLS is what’s known as a surfactant. This means it lowers the surface tension between ingredients, which is why it’s used as a cleansing and foaming agent. You will find SLS in a range of human products and may find it in some dog grooming products. It is generally what makes them foam. Human Products: Hand sanitiser Makeup remover Liquid hand soap Shampoo Conditioner Styling gel Bubble baths Dental care products like toothpaste Anti-itch creams Sunscreen You may also find it as a food additive in certain products, it is used to mix acids with other liquids, or as an emulsifier or thickener. Dog Grooming Products: Shampoo Conditioner Detangler Conditioning balms Deodorising sprays Cologne It is also worth noting that some shampoos specifically prescribed or advertised for use in atopic disease also contain SLS, amongst other ingredients. The issue is that when products reduce filaggrin expression, it disrupts the skin barrier, making it permeable to other toxicants and irritants, creating a vicious cycle. What you choose to apply to your dog’s coat and skin is just as important as what you put into their body through their diet. Not only that, but whilst you may not be applying human products directly to your dog, they may come into contact with them through exposure to soft furnishings or you. In the hopes to create a mechanical barrier, without harsh chemicals being used, there are certain topical products
Have you ever noticed that the wolves found in Yellowstone are rarely obese? Even the alpha males, who in theory could have access to all the kill they choose, maintain a lean weight. Do they perfectly balance their calories in with their calories out? Whilst not impossible, it’s a slight stretch of their intuition and it demonstrates on a simplistic level, why the CICO model doesn’t really answer enough questions when exploring the concept of obesity. In our last My Pet Nutritionist blog article, we explored a range of ideas that can contribute to obesity in pets, but there are many more schools of thought, so we thought we’d explore another in a separate article. One of them being hormones. All of the fat found in cells is stored in the form of triglycerides. Fatty acids are converted into triglycerides for storage and then for fat to be used as energy, they are freed back into fatty acids. Getting fat is the process where triglycerides are created more quickly than they are broken down. This flow of fatty acids is regulated by a range of enzymes and hormones. This isn’t surprising when we consider the role of growth hormone, it is what drives the growth of children and adolescents. If you are considering bodybuilding, steroid hormones are used to increase bulk and if you take a trip down memory lane, chickens were injected with hormones in the 50’s to increase their size too! Findings here It seems that, on a simplistic level, certain hormones cause fat cells to suck up fatty acids more readily than they otherwise would or slow down the rate at which triglycerides are converted back. Both oestrogen and testosterone have been shown to decrease the rate at which certain cells take up free fatty acids, which results in keeping the fat cells relatively small (and why in humans you will notice differences in fat gain between males and females). This is why after neutering your pet, you are advised to monitor their weight as more often than not, they gain weight. This issue here is demonstrated by a study conducted in the early 1970’s. A professor named George Wade wanted to explore how animals regulated their fat supplies. He had two groups of rats and removed their ovaries. The first group then was given free access to food and they could eat as much as they desired. They subsequently ate more than they had before the surgery and became obese. The second group were restricted to the same number of calories they had eaten before the surgery. Their environment was also kept the same. But this second group too became obese it just occurred through a different mechanism. They simply became less active. With the removal of the hormones, it is thought that the uptake of the free fatty acids was unregulated, resulting in more fatty tissue. With the drop in lipid levels, group one sought to replace the circulating levels with more food, but with the absence of food in the second group, they simply became less active to account for the shortfall. The implication of hormones in fat regulation is also demonstrated when lesions in the brain disrupt the hypothalamus. The ventromedial hypothalamus is one of the most hormonally active areas in the brain, and lesions here have resulted in the development of obesity. Leptin largely exerts its influence in the hypothalamus and leptin has a crucial role in regulating food intake and maintaining metabolic homeostasis (balance). Being another hormone, leptin is secreted mainly by adipocytes. Plasma leptin levels are significantly associated with body mass index and total body fat. It is generally accepted that total fat mass is the strongest predictor of circulating leptin. The discovery of leptin made it clear that adipose tissue (fat tissue) is not only a regulator of body weight but also an endocrine organ with feedback loops between the brain and peripheral tissues. Leptin levels decrease during fasting or energy restriction and increase during refeeding, overfeeding and sometimes during times of stress. Several metabolic and hormonal factors influence the synthesis and secretion of leptin in the body such as cytokines, cortisol, catecholamines, fatty acids, glucose, and insulin. Which brings us to another hormone that is intricately involved in obesity in our pets. Insulin Insulin is deemed an anabolic hormone; it works to accelerate the rate at which nutrients are put together to make new tissues. Insulin is well known for its role in clearing glucose from the bloodstream and regulating blood sugar balance. We’ll use the dry fed dog to explore this a little further. When carbohydrates are digested by the dog, they are broken down into glucose. Carbohydrates can be complex (being longer chains of molecules and taking a little longer to be broken down) or simple (broken down quickly and easily). Ultimately, when they exit the digestive tract and find themselves in the bloodstream, they exist as glucose. When blood sugar levels start to creep up, insulin is called to action. Insulin is like the porter in the hotel; it shuttles glucose out of the bloodstream and opens the doors of where it needs to go. This can be to cells or muscles to be used as energy, but if it isn’t needed there, it can be stored (in adipose tissue). Think of it like when you’ve got an early check out and leave your luggage at reception until you’re due at the airport. But what insulin also does is blocks the conversion of triglycerides back; this makes absolute sense as it wants to prioritise the use of glucose as energy to get it out of the blood stream! But what this means is that insulin is in fact a fat regulator. Now we know glucose can be generated from non-carbohydrate sources through gluconeogenesis, but the issue for the dry fed dog, is that these diets often score incredibly high on their carbohydrate content. Due to the range on the market, it can be anywhere up
It always takes a couple of years for data to start filtering through, but in 2018, a survey of veterinary professionals believed that rates of obesity are increasing year on year. It is thought that 51% of dogs and 44% of cats in the UK are overweight. That is just over half of the population of dogs and nearly half of the population of cats. These numbers are up on the last data sourced in 2015. 100% of veterinary professionals are concerned about the prevalence of obesity and the health issues it can lead to. In the words of James Smith PT, we’d love to tell you it’s as simple as a calorie deficit, but here at My Pet Nutritionist, we know that obesity is in fact a multifactorial condition, which can make it a hard nut to crack. But we also know that the health of your pet depends on it. So, we’re not about to grab a hammer, instead we’re going to take a look around the cookware store and find the right nutcracker to do the job. Fancy a trip? The Health Issues Associated with Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk factors for developing: Cancer Diabetes Heart disease Osteoarthritis and degeneration of joints Urinary bladder stones Surgery complications Respiratory difficulties Kidney disease All things considered, its easy to see why obesity significantly reduces lifespan and why it is something that really needs to be addressed. What is obesity? Obesity is defined as an accumulation of excessive amounts of adipose tissue. It is generally a state of positive energy balance. When food is ingested, it is digested and metabolised. The body uses the nutrients it needs and converts the main macronutrients to energy. All energy in the body is produced by the breakdown of ATP, adenosine triphosphate. ATP is found in all cells in all the body, but as it is a large molecule, not so much can be stored. In nearly every living thing, this energy comes from the metabolism of glucose. There are three relevant energy systems. 1. ATP-P This is where the body uses all the ATP it has stored in its cells. This is the simplest energy production process; and if we were to consider it in human terms, this is the system that your 100m sprint would utilise. 2. Glycolytic System This system runs on glycogen, which is stored glucose. In human terms, this system provides moderate power and moderate duration. Both the ATP-PC and Glycolytic system are anaerobic, meaning they don’t require oxygen to produce ATP. 3. Oxidative Syste This system, as its name suggests does involve the use of oxygen to product ATP. This system cannot produce energy as quickly as the other two, but it can produce it continually and for a longer duration. This system can use stored carbohydrates and fats for fuel. In human terms, this would be the system that the marathon runner would access! So, in short, glucose is used as energy, but unused glucose can be converted to glycogen to be stored in the liver and muscles. If there is still leftover, then it is converted into fatty acids and stored in adipose tissue. This makes evolutionary sense; there would be a reserve during periods of low food availability. However, as you have noticed, fat too can be used as an energy source, and protein can be broken down into amino acids and then converted to glucose in a process known as gluconeogenesis. This is where the calorie in, calorie out idea comes from. An overabundance of any of the three macronutrients, can be converted into fat for later use. And the idea that obesity comes from reduced activity comes from the reasoning that those reserves aren’t actually used. On a simplistic level, this makes absolute sense and for the pet who is starting to look a little more round than usual, a simple reduction to their daily intake or a longer walk, may just tuck that waist in a little more. But there are many more factors at play here. Fat is the New Norm Do you know your pet is overweight? In an 8000-household study, 68% of surveyed owners report thinking their pet is the perfect weight. 67% of surveyed owners did not see obesity as a concern. Interestingly, a recent report from the NHS in the UK identified that 67% of men and 60% women were overweight or obese. 20% of Year 6 children were also classified as obese. Findings here Whilst we acknowledge there are faults in BMI scores, it still highlights a valid point. Sadly, pet obesity has many parallels with human obesity and according to the NHS, fat is the new norm for humans. As we know, we learn from experience and so, if we are consistently exposed to something, it becomes accepted. If we are consistently exposed to round pets, without a waistline, do we accept it? But, our pets need a waistline. They should tuck-in behind their ribs, and underneath. Whilst you shouldn’t be able to see their ribs, you should be able to feel them. They should not look rectangular from any angle, side or above. What treats are you offering your pet? Whilst for us humans, a decadent chocolate pot may be a weekend treat, dog treats have somewhat lost their novelty. Treats can be a useful resource during training, and in some cases, high value are necessary, but for some, treats are used as a way to prevent feelings of guilt when pets are being left home alone. Depending on how many times you leave the house, these can soon add up! 1. Table scrap We’ve all been there, those eyes looking up at you whilst you’re eating. Whilst that cubic inch of cheese only warrants 68 calories of your daily 2500 (call it 3%), for your 9kg Scottie Dog, that’s nearly 20% of their daily calorie allowance. If begging at the table is an issue, it is possible to remove the pets to
