When we talk about nutrition we tend to focus on the protein and fat requirements of our pets (the carbohydrate requirement gets us all a little hot under the collar) and it stands to reason because they are macronutrients. What this means is that they are required in larger quantities for optimal bodily function. But we also have micronutrients, and despite them being required in lower quantities, they are still critical to health. Under the umbrella of micronutrients, we have vitamins and minerals. We have some helpful blogs on minerals here: Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part One Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part Two But, as vitamins are just as important, here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d pop together a blog on why our dogs need them too! What Are Vitamins? Vitamins are defined by their physical and physiological characteristics. Vitamins are needed in minute quantities to function as essential enzymes, enzyme precursors of coenzymes in many of the body’s metabolic processes. Generally, vitamins are not synthesised by the body and must therefore be provided by food (but our canine companions have a trick up their sleeve with vitamin C for example). Fat vs. Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamins are split into fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins. In this blog, we will focus on the water-soluble vitamins. If you would like to learn more about the fat-soluble vitamins, then check out our blog here: Why Does My Dog Need Vitamins? Part One – The Fat-Soluble Vitamins The Water-Soluble Vitamins Water soluble vitamins are depleted at a faster rate because of limited storage and are less likely to cause toxicity but more likely to become deficient. Water soluble vitamins are absorbed by way of active transport, some vitamins require a carrier protein, like with B12 cobalamin (intrinsic factor), where others require a sodium dependent, carrier-mediated absorption pump. The B Vitamins The B complex vitamins are all water-soluble vitamins that were originally grouped together because of similar metabolic functions and occurrence in foods. These nine vitamins act as coenzymes for specific cellular enzymes that are involved in energy metabolism and tissue synthesis. Coenzymes are small organic molecules that must be present with an enzyme for a specific reaction to occur, like a key being required for a lock to engage. The following vitamins are all involved in the conversion of food to energy: thiamine riboflavin niacin pyridoxine pantothenic acid biotin The following are all important for cell growth and maintenance and/or blood cell synthesis: folate B12 cobalamin choline (it’s not actually a vitamin, but its often grouped with the B vitamins due to their similarities) Spotlight On… Biotin: Known as Vitamin H, for Haar and Haut (hair and skin), we know it more commonly as vitamin B7, or Biotin. One of the B vitamins, Biotin, helps the body convert food into energy. Specifically, biotin is involved in gluconeogenesis, which as we know is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Biotin is involved in fatty acid synthesis, which as we know, is key in skin health. Biotin is also involved in amino acid breakdown. Deficiency of biotin has been associated with immune depression and reduced collagen synthesis, another key consideration in structural health. Biotin deficiency is rare in those who ingest a varied diet, but symptoms in the dog include alopecia, dull coat, brittle hair and scaly skin. The use of antibiotics in the dog decreases the bacterial population of the large intestine which increases the dietary requirement for biotin. Rancid fats also inactive biotin, along with feed rancidity (storage conditions and length). Chlorine inactivates biotin, so this is of concern if dogs are offered chlorinated drinking water. Findings Here Many foods contain biotin, so opt for organ meats, eggs, fish, meat, seeds, and nuts. Fruits like raspberries also contain biotin, and vegetables like sweet potato. There are however some concerns that egg whites contain avidin which binds to biotin, making it unavailable for intestinal absorption. Deficiency has only occurred when over 30% of the diet consists of raw eggs. So, like all things, moderation is key. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is critical for a range of functions in the body. A common deficiency in human vegetarians, disorders of cobalamin metabolism are seemingly increasing in small animal medicine. The causes of deficiency range from chronic gastrointestinal disease to hereditary disease, but what is clear is the health impact of low levels. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA and RNA synthesis and for cellular energy production. All cells in all bodies need to know what they are doing, and they need energy to do them! There are no known naturally occurring bioactive forms of B12 in plant sources. This is because B12 is synthesised by the bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract of animals, and then absorbed by the host animals. B12 is concentrated in their tissues, which is then eaten by other animals. Sources of B12 include red meat, fish, dairy and eggs. B12 can be depleted in times of stress. This occurs from a range of mechanisms. Stress is a physiological response; in the presence of a threat, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in for fight or flight. Energy is diverted to the brain and muscles as these are the parts of the body needed to escape. Once the threat has been resolved, the parasympathetic nervous system kicks in, returning energy to other bodily functions, which is why it is known as the rest and digest phase. In times of chronic stress, digestive functions can be significantly altered, which can result in malabsorption of nutrients, in this case B12. There are also suggestions that gastric acid can vary during times of stress, increasing or decreasing depending on the personality of the host. Changes in stomach acid secretion can also affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System? The last mechanism by which B12 levels are affected during times of stress is due to its role
When we talk about nutrition we tend to focus on the protein and fat requirements of our pets (the carbohydrate requirement gets us all a little hot under the collar) and it stands to reason because they are macronutrients. What this means is that they are required in larger quantities for optimal bodily function. But we also have micronutrients, and despite them being required in lower quantities, they are still critical to health. Under the umbrella of micronutrients, we have vitamins and minerals. We have some helpful blogs on minerals here: Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part One Why Does My Dog Need Minerals – Part Two But, as vitamins are just as important, here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d pop together a blog on why our dogs need them too! What Are Vitamins? Vitamins are defined by their physical and physiological characteristics. Vitamins are needed in minute quantities to function as essential enzymes, enzyme precursors or coenzymes in many of the bodies metabolic processes. Generally, vitamins are not synthesised by the body and must therefore be provided by food (but our canine companions have a trick up their sleeve with vitamin C for example). Fat vs. Water Soluble Vitamins Vitamins are split into fat soluble and water-soluble vitamins. In this blog, we will focus on the fat-soluble vitamins, with the water-soluble vitamins to follow. Fat soluble vitamins can be stored in the body’s lipid deposits, making them more resistant to deficiency but also more likely to result in toxicity. Fat soluble vitamins require bile salts and fat to form micelles for absorption. They are then passively absorbed through the lacteals (the lymphatic vessels of the small intestine which absorb digested fats), usually in the duodenum and ileum and transported with chylomicrons to the liver via the lymphatic system. Synthetic and naturally made vitamins are used in the body in the same way but they do have different availabilities. The Fat-Soluble Vitamins Vitamin A Vitamin A is the term which describes several compounds which biologically, have the activity of the parent compound retinol. This form of the vitamin and its derivatives are found only in animal tissues, whereas plants contain precursors in the form of the carotenoids. These are the yellow/orange pigments found in carrots and many other vegetables. The most widely abundant precursor of vitamin A is carotene, and most animals can convert this into the vitamin itself. The well-known function of vitamin A is its role in vision. Vitamin A is a precursor of rhodopsin, the photopigment found in rods within the retina of the eye that helps us and our pets to see at night. One manifestation of vitamin A deficiency is slow, dark adaptation progressing to night blindness. Vitamin A is also part of the bone formation and bone resorption equation. It influences both osteoblast and osteoclast function. Much data is now suggesting higher vitamin A levels are associated with lower bone density so balancing levels is essential. Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining healthy endothelial cells which are those lining the body’s interior surfaces. As we know, in the gut, they play a role controlling the passage of antigens and commensal gut microbiota from the intestine into the bloodstream. Another key role of Vitamin A is supporting immune function. It helps make white blood cells which circulate in the body, searching for foreign invaders and cell irregularities. Sources of Vitamin A: Carotenoids: sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, yellow/orange/red fruits/vegetables. Retinoids: animal meat; liver, fish oil. Vitamin D Vitamin D is actually a hormone that promotes calcium absorption. In human health, you will have heard it referenced as the sunshine vitamin as it is produced in the skin in response to sunlight (UV) exposure. Unlike herbivores and omnivores, cats and dogs are unable to synthesize Vitamin D adequately in the skin. There is no seasonal change in concentrations and studies have shown that when fed a diet deficient in Vitamin D, puppies develop rickets which could not be prevented by exposure to UVB light. Findings Here This means that cats and dogs are dependent on dietary sources of Vitamin D. There are two forms of Vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol which occurs in plants and Vitamin D3, known as cholecalciferol, is created in the skin during exposure to UV light and occurs in animals. Cholecalciferol (D3) is of greatest nutritional importance to both cats and dogs and luckily it can be obtained from the consumption of animal products that contain it. Once vitamin D3 is formed in the skin (of animals who can do so), it binds and is then either stored or transported to the liver. Both D2 and D3 are biologically inactive and must undergo two more steps to be activated. This involves both the liver and the kidneys. Vitamin D plays an indirect role in bone health by managing calcium levels in the body. It controls absorption of calcium in the intestine and the amount of calcium excreted by the kidneys. If Vitamin D levels are low, then the intestines struggle to absorb calcium. Vitamin D is also vital in immune function. We find vitamin D receptors on a range of immune cells, meaning there needs to be sufficient levels of it in the body for the cells to do their job. Vitamin D can help modulate inflammatory responses and is also required to produce natural killer cells which are known for killing virally infective cells. Findings Here The Importance of Vitamin D for Cats and Dogs Vitamin E Vitamin E includes several compounds, of which the most biologically active and widely distributed is alpha tocopherol. Vitamin E functions as an important antioxidant within cells, protecting lipids, particularly the polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes against oxidative damage caused by free radicals and active forms of oxygen that may be generated during metabolic processes. The dietary requirement for vitamin E is influenced by the intake of selenium because of its role in glutathione
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
We sometimes talk about intolerances and allergies like this is the only thing that can cause your cat or dog’s itching. There can be so many reasons, layered reasons and some more serious than others. Here we explore some of the undetected and misdiagnosed reasons for your dog being itchy. Adrenal function The adrenal glands are located just in front of the kidneys. You will recognise them from when we discuss the stress response more often than not. The adrenal gland has 2 parts—the cortex and the medulla. The adrenal cortex is subdivided into 3 layers, and each layer produces a different set of steroid hormones. The outer layer produces the mineralocorticoids, which help regulate sodium and potassium salts. The middle layer produces glucocorticoids, which are involved in metabolising nutrients and reducing inflammation and immune responses. Finally, the inner layer produces sex hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, and androgens. The adrenal medulla plays an important role in response to stress or low blood sugar levels in the body. It releases adrenaline and noradrenaline, both of which increase heart rate and blood pressure, increase blood sugar and slow digestion; the hallmark responses when us or our dogs are exposed to a stress trigger. The adrenal glands are part of the endocrine system – which is simply a system of glands that release chemical messengers called hormones. The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function in the body. So, if there is any issue in any part of it, things can start to go wrong. The two most common ways in which adrenal glands cause health issues are by producing too little or too much of certain hormones, which leads to hormonal imbalances. Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s Disease) due to an excess of cortisol production frequently causes dogs to itch, lose hair, have thin skin with dark pigment, drink excessively and have recurring skin problems. But this raises another point, even if there are no physiological issues with the adrenal glands, high cortisol levels due to daily stress can also lead to itchy skin! Thyroid Function We’ll continue with the hormones for a minute and look at thyroid function. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland found in the neck. One of its main functions is to produce hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism, the process that turns food into energy. This too can produce too many hormones, or too few. These conditions are known as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism respectively. Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism in Cats Skin issues are regularly noted in times of thyroid dysfunction, and this includes itchiness. Kidney Function Intense itchiness often accompanies late-stage kidney disease, and whilst the jury is out on the exact reasons behind it, it is thought that it’s relating to the build up of toxins in the body. This leads us nicely into the same itchy symptoms associated with early-stage liver disease, and this is considered for similar reasons. Detoxification Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. The Liver The liver neutralises a range of toxic chemicals, both those produced internally (waste from used hormones or neurotransmitters for example) and those from the environment, like air pollution, pesticides, and food additives. It does this by filtering the blood to remove large toxins, synthesising, and secreting bile and lastly enzymatically disassembling unwanted chemicals found in the body. Liver Guard Enzymatic Detoxification This enzymatical detoxification occurs in three phases. Phase I directly neutralises chemicals and changes them into new metabolites. These are then processed by phase II enzymes. This is known as the conjugation phase, which in short, liver enzymes attach small chemicals to the toxin. There are many ways in which this is done, it all depends on the type of chemical the liver is trying to manage. Phase I results in high levels of reactive oxygen species so antioxidant levels are key in modulating potential damage. Phase II is nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron are essential. Phase III is the elimination phase. For optimal excretion of toxins through the digestive system, gut health is vitally important. Maintaining the mucosal barrier is key for gut health along with supporting motility. The kidneys will also filter and process toxins from circulation, excreting them as urine. The skin also forms as an elimination pathway. This is why detoxification issues can result in skin issues. In cases of liver disease, it is considered that bile salt deposits under the skin, which results in itchiness. The most important thing to do to support detoxification is to avoid exposure in the first place, so consider how much you and your dog are exposed to: Pesticides Heavy smoke Phthalates Mould Medications like steroids, antibiotics, and painkillers Heavy metals Cleaning products Air fresheners Eating foods cooked at high temperatures (most commercial dry foods) This list is not exhaustive, but it is a place to start. This mechanism also applies to vaccines. There is increasing evidence that over-vaccination is associated with the development or aggravation of immune-mediated disorders and chronic diseases in individual pets that are genetically predisposed. The primary role of the immune system in dogs is to protect against foreign invaders, or abnormal cells that invade or attack. The immune system must distinguish between self and non-self. Substances that stimulate a response are antigens. These can be contained within bacteria, viruses or microorganisms or cancer cells. They may also exist on their own, like pollen or food particles. There are three lines of defence, physical barriers, nonspecific immunity, and specific immunity. But the immune system does not always function properly, it can be underactive and overactive. An underactive system puts the animal at risk of infection, but an overactive immune system can attack parts of its body that it misidentifies as being foreign. This is what happens in autoimmune conditions. The immune system can also overreact
If you’ve been following us here at My Pet Nutritionist for a while then you will likely have come across the concept of the gut barrier, and how when it gets compromised, things can start to go a little awry. Whilst leaky gut is being blamed for all sorts, we’re here to sort fact from fiction and we’ll start with the basics. What is the Gut Barrier? The gut barrier in effect, forms the lining of the gut and it has two main features: the physical barrier and the chemical barrier The physical barrier consists of tight junctions which form a selective permeable seal between adjacent epithelial cells. This “seal” is dynamically regulated by various extracellular stimuli and is closely associated with both health and disease. TJs contribute to the function of the physical intestinal barrier by regulating the paracellular movement of ions, solutes, and water across the intestinal epithelium. It also protects against pathogens and large, harmful molecules. The regulation of these TJs is therefore crucial to a healthy barrier and there are a number of things that can influence this. Immune mediated TJ function is well documented; cytokines play a key role in the integrity of the gut barrier. Tumor necrosis factor-α Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced mainly by activated T cells and macrophages (cells of the immune system). TNF-α is known to induce cell death and inflammatory response in intestinal epithelial cells and recent studies have also demonstrated that it impairs the intestinal TJ barrier. Findings Here Interleukin-1β Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), another inflammatory cytokine is markedly elevated in intestinal mucosa under inflammatory conditions. In addition, recent studies show that IL-1β causes increased intestinal TJ permeability. Findings Here On the other hand, Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is regarded as an anti-inflammatory cytokine. In vitro studies have demonstrated that IL-10 opposes the cellular functions induced by TNF-α and IFN-γ. It is suggested that IL-10 has a role in the protection of the intestinal barrier by regulation of TJ proteins. Findings Here Pathogenic Bacteria and Lipopolysaccharides It is well established that pathogenic bacteria also alter the intestinal epithelial TJ barrier. The most commonly referenced are Escherichia coli (E.coli) and Salmonella which lead to intestinal inflammation. In addition, lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also called endotoxins, a component of the outer walls of gram-negative bacteria also alter TJ protein assembly. In studies, LPS treatment is seen to increase TJ permeability and induce epithelial cell death. The other part of the barrier is the mucosal layer. Mucous Layer The mucus layer is the very first line of defence that external molecules encounter when they arrive in the gut, it prevents bacteria from directly contacting the epithelial cells, along with toxic substances and digestive enzymes. The main building blocks of the mucus layer are mucin proteins that form a gel-like sieve structure overlying the intestinal epithelium. In the small and large intestine, mucin 2 (MUC2) is the most abundant mucus protein secreted by goblet cells. MUC2 expression is critical in protection against disease, as Muc2 knock-out mice will often develop colitis. Findings Here The ability of mucins to bind water offers another protective element – they moisturise and lubricate, protecting the epithelial cells from dehydration and mechanical stress during the passage of food. Immune regulators are also found in the mucosal layer, which highlights its collaboration with the immune system. Mucous Turnover and Degradation The turnover of the intestinal mucous layer includes mucous synthesis, secretion, and degradation. It is a complex process that needs to be regulated and balanced to ensure optimal protective function. Mucin degradation has been recognized as a normal process of mucus turn-over in the GI tract, starting a few months after birth. Selective intestinal bacteria can degrade mucous glycans as an energy source, suggesting that there is a relationship between the microbiota and the mucosal layer. This is of concern in low fibre diets because in the absence of fibre as a fuel source, the microbiota will switch to mucosal glycans. It has been well established that low fibre diets are associated with a thinner colonic mucosa. Findings Here The rate of mucin turn-over can be modified by bacterial colonization, for example, the intestinal mucous requires the presence of bacteria to develop its full functionality; analysis has shown thin or even absent mucous layer in the colon of germ-free rats. Findings Here In addition, short chain fatty acids can stimulate mucous production. SCFA’s are the end products of microbial fermentation of undigestible carbohydrates with acetate, propionate and butyrate being the most common in the intestinal lumen. Starvation also influences mucin turnover. The mechanism during times of starvation is much the same as on low fibre diets, diverse bacterial species will switch to mucin as an energy source during nutrient deprivation. This poses food for thought in fasting. To Fast or Not To Fast? Finally, the consumption of a Western Style Diet (WSD) has been linked to the impairment of intestinal mucosal function. Animal studies have administered a WSD, high in fat, simple sugars and low in complex fibre and found that in just three days the mucosal layer was diminished. A reduction in MUC2 was found. However, when mice were transplanted with microbiota from a control diet, the mucosal dysfunction was prevented, despite being fed a WSD themselves. This suggests that in addition to dietary choices influencing the composition of the mucosal layer, so too does the microbiota. Your Puppy’s Microbiome What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis What Can Help Dysbiosis Furthermore, there seems to be a bidirectional relationship between stress and mucosal barrier function. Animal studies have demonstrated that early life stress impairs development of mucosal barrier function, becoming a predisposing factor to intestinal disorders in adult life. Findings Here Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System 6 Tips for Your Anxious Dog Why Dogs Need To Chew Top Tips to Support Gut Barrier Health: Offer a species appropriate diet Limit toxic exposure Support beneficial microbiome formation and maintenance Limit stress exposure Address existing inflammation If you would
Generally, when we talk about fasting in the human realms, we are talking about intermittent fasting, and the function is largely to lose weight. What this mechanism actually does is reduce overall caloric intake, so by definition, if you reduce calories, there may be a resultant weight loss (note, we say may, because weight loss isn’t always that simple). But, when we talk about fasting in dogs it’s not generally around weight loss, it’s for longevity and improved health outcomes. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, it’s a question we get asked a lot. Should we fast dogs, or not? Let’s look at the science behind it. What Is Fasting? Fasting is not the same as starvation. Starvation occurs when there are no reserves left in the body; with insufficient intake of nutrients resulting in the break down of vital tissues. Fasting is simply a form of reduced calorie intake. What is interesting is that complete or modified fasting is a natural part of the wild canine diet. Wolves, the closest living relative to the dog are a window into dog physiology. When we look at the behaviour and lifestyle of wolves reintroduced into Yellowstone National Park, they show us that they are well designed for feast or famine. When hunting is easy, they may kill every two to three days. Generally, they will first eat organ meats, then muscle. At the end of the two- or three-day period, they then eat the bones and hide, including the fur. In times of low food abundance, wolves have been seen to scavenge bone and hide for several weeks at a time. Findings Here What Happens During a Fast Digestion is an incredibly demanding task. When it occurs, all hands are on deck. When it isn’t required, hands can be diverted to other tasks. What Does the Science Say? Most of the data is looking at fasting in rats, mice, monkeys, and humans. But we do have some data from dogs. Fasting has been seen to decrease toxic load. With little competition from substances absorbed after a meal, the liver is able to fully process waste products and excrete them efficiently. In addition, it has been demonstrated that during fasting, mitochondria downregulate. As you’ll remember, the mitochondria are the power plants of the cell, where we get energy from. But through the process, a high volume of free radicals are produced. Therefore, with downregulation, fewer free radicals are produced, which reduces oxidative stress. Fasting has been seen to decrease inflammatory molecules in many cell types. As we know inflammation underlies many chronic diseases and so it’s easy to agree when we see data suggesting that fasting reduces the incidence of: Cancer Arthritis Cognitive decline Diabetes (prevention) Dermatitis Liver, kidney, and heart disease Findings Here Findings Here Furthermore, fasting has showed a lower rate of muscle loss with age, with no apparent loss of bone density. Findings Here Finally, fasting for 48 hours has been shown to protect normal cells, but not cancer cells, from the toxic effects of chemotherapy. This approach has been utilised in humans to mitigate side effects associated with chemotherapy. Findings Here So, we know that fasting has some great benefits, but is there anything we should be mindful of? Well, we shouldn’t fast cats, in it’s true definition. The feline liver doesn’t downregulate during fasting, hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) has been seen to occur in a cat fasted for as little as two days. But calorie restriction (to 70% of a standard diet) has been used in therapeutic approaches and favourably affected physical activity, lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Findings Here There’s also no place for fasting in puppies. Puppyhood is one of the most nutritionally demanding periods; to build a body, they need the component parts. The same goes for bitches in whelp; to build babies, they need the component parts. A note on diabetes… Diabetes is a disease that results from an absolute or relative lack of insulin. As we know, insulin helps get glucose into cells to be used as energy; it therefore maintains the amount of glucose found in the bloodstream. Fasting with diabetes can result in dangerously low blood sugar levels. The bottom line? Guidance from a qualified practitioner may be worthwhile if you are considering fasting with any pre-existing health concerns. It may not be appropriate at all. So How Do You Do It? Well, there are two ways really. The first is to fast for a whole day once a week. This was seemingly the accepted routine for farmers and gundogs in decades gone by. But it’s not about removing what your dog would usually eat on that day, you simply spread it out on the other days – some have spread it throughout the week, some load it the day before and the day after the fast. Ensure that the amount you are feeding is appropriate for the healthy weight your pet requires. The other way is just providing an eating window. You can feed one meal per day, or two but within a short eating window of each other (generally 6-8 hours of each other). For example, you feed breakfast at 9am and then supper at 4 or 5pm. During any fasting periods, dogs should always have access to fresh, filtered water. As you have noticed, there is a difference between fasting and calorie restriction – fasting is allowing periods of rest between food ingestion. Calorie restriction is reduction of calories. But both have great health benefits, depending on the pet and their current health status. If you are looking to tackle a weight issue in your pet check out our blogs here. Obesity in Pets – Part I Obesity in Pets – Part II Fasting or calorie restriction may not be appropriate for all pets, and so if you are wondering if any dietary changes may be of benefit to your pet, check out our services. Consultations Thanks for reading, MPN Team x
A diet we get asked about all the time here at My Pet Nutritionist, the Ketogenic diet isn’t always appropriate, but if it is, there are some hard and fast tips to follow. We thought we’d head on a whistle stop tour and give you what you need to know. The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat and moderate protein diet. In essence, it shifts the body’s energy fuel pathways. Healthy cells use carbohydrates or fats to produce energy. When carbohydrates are ingested, the body can either convert them to glucose for fuel, or it can store the glucose as glycogen in the liver or muscles. When fat is ingested, it too can be used for energy metabolism, but it can also be stored for a later time as triglycerides. When the body needs them, they are released as fatty acids which can fuel body movement, create heat and provide energy for body processes. If there is excessive oxidation of fatty acids, the cycle that is responsible for all of this gets a little overloaded, and the resulting compound is diverted to create ketone bodies. These ketone bodies can serve as a fuel source if glucose levels are too low in the body. Organs that have classically be thought to be dependent solely on glucose, like the brain, can in fact use ketones as an alternative energy source; it makes sense, above all, the brain needs to function when glucose is limited. The ketogenic diet has gained interest in epilepsy and cases of cancer, largely based on the Warburg theory whereby it was suggested that cancer cells have altered energy metabolism by way of increased glucose uptake. Findings Here A study of 21 epileptic dogs showed a 50% reduction in seizure frequency alongside a ketogenic diet. Findings Here That said, the ketogenic diet isn’t always as easy as thought. There are a number of considerations to make: Possible decrease in microbial diversity in the GI tract Potential nutrient shortfalls if not considered thoroughly Diarrhoea and constipation Generally, for dogs, a ketogenic diet can range from 69-90% fat, 9-30% protein and 1% carbohydrates. But true ketosis is generally achieved when the following are monitored: Macronutrient control and elimination of glucose Repeated testing (blood/ketone) Metabolic conditioning The bottom line? There is increasing evidence that a ketogenic diet has been of benefit in certain conditions, however, the true ratios will be dog dependent and for that reason we would advise any dietary plans to be developed alongside a qualified professional. Consultations However, we can use the basic premise of the ketogenic diet to support the health of our dogs. Top Tips for Dog Health from the Keto Ethos: 1) Keep Insulin Low Feed fat and protein and keep net carbs low. Net carbs are carbs minus their fibre content, so remember, fibre is a carby friend! 2) Keep Calories in Check Feed by eye – you want to see an hourglass figure from a birds-eye view. Feeding guidelines are just that – just because a calculator says you should feed that much, if your dog is looking chunky, reign it in! Feed for function, not for added (rounded) features! 3) Use Periodic Fasts Calorie restriction has been seen to add years to the lifespan! You can feed once per day, or limit feeding to a window (8 hours for example). You can also use 24 hour fasts periodically too! Fasting deserves a blog all on it’s own, so check back for more on this! 4) Reduce Inflammation Low carbs along with a calorie-controlled diet has been seen to reduce inflammation. 5)Keep Moving Most dogs will suffer from inactivity than too much exercise. Regular physical activity is known to regulate inflammatory responses in the body, support heart function and health, prevent telomere shortening (associated with aging), promote growth in brain cells and reduce risk of cognitive decline. If you would like any support creating a new dietary plan for your dog to address existing health concerns or simply to find what’s best for them at their stage of life, then please check out our services. What We Offer Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
As we know bacteria is everywhere, both the good ones and the not so good ones. Sometimes the bad ones can get a little out of hand and start causing a whole host of problems, we know this as bacterial overgrowth and we’re going to be looking at small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO specifically. Here at My Pet Nutritionist is something we keep an eye out for, so we thought we’d let you know why. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined as excessive bacteria in the small intestine. SIBO is frequently implicated as the cause of chronic diarrhoea and malabsorption. Dogs with SIBO may suffer from unintentional weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and osteoporosis for example. When we reference the microbiome, we are considering the microbial community found in the whole of the digestive tract. Generally, the further down we go, the more bugs we find. So, we would expect the majority of the bugs to be found in the colon. SIBO is when there are higher numbers found in the small intestine. The type of microbial flora present plays an important role in the manifestation of signs and symptoms of overgrowth. For example, a predominance of bacteria that metabolize bile salts to unconjugated or insoluble compounds may lead to fat malabsorption or bile acid diarrhoea. In contrast, microorganisms that preferentially metabolize carbohydrates to short-chain fatty acids and gas may produce bloating without diarrhoea because the metabolic products can be absorbed. There are a number of contributing factors to the development of SIBO but two of the main ones are gastric acid secretion and small intestine dysmotility. Gastric Acid Gastric acid is necessary in the digestion of food. Not only that but it suppresses the growth of ingested bacteria (it forms one of the protective barriers), which limits bacterial counts in the upper small intestine. Gastric acid is produced in the stomach, so it provides a buffer before compounds even reach the small intestine. Gastric acid is produced by the parietal cells in the stomach, and there are cases of autoimmunity whereby the body attacks its own parietal cells resulting in low levels of gastric acid. Not only that but certain medications like proton pump inhibitors are also used to suppress gastric acid. Antihistamine medications also suppress gastric acid secretion. PPIs are often used to treat a range of GI disorders in dogs and antihistamines are regularly used to treat allergic dermatitis. In addition, gastric acid secretion is regulated by the parasympathetic nervous system via the vagus nerve and there is clear evidence that increased levels of certain stress hormones inhibits the release of it. Can Stress Affect My Dog’s Digestive System The stress response also plays a role in intestinal motility. Intestinal Motility Several programmed movements are responsible for the transport of food between the different parts of the digestive system. Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. The migrating motor complex typically moves between the stomach and small intestine, sweeping the intestine clean between meals; this is the rumble you will hear! Hormones like motilin and ghrelin are involved in the generation of MMCs. Mass movement is another programmed movement, and this is what propels the formed poop into the rectum, ready for evacuation. Mass movements are put on hold overnight but start again in the morning. They follow their own circadian rhythm. Impaired gastric motility can result in food and waste sitting in the small intestine for longer that it should. There are a number of reasons why motility may be affected. Mechanical obstruction, Abnormalities in smooth muscle function, Secondary conditions such as electrolyte disturbances, metabolic disorders, concurrent medication use, stress, and abdominal inflammation. However, there is more attention being paid to the development of SIBO through antigens gaining access to the lamina propria. The lamina propria is a thin layer of connective tissue that forms part of the moist linings known as mucous membranes or mucosa which line the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. It is therefore thought that a compromised mucosal barrier is a risk factor for SIBO. The mucus layer is the very first line of physical defence that external molecules encounter when they arrive in the gut lumen, it prevents bacteria from directly contacting the epithelial cells, along with toxic substances and digestive enzymes. Within this strand, it therefore prevents colonic inflammation. The main building blocks of the mucus layer are highly glycosylated mucin proteins that form a gel-like sieve structure overlying the intestinal epithelium. The small intestine only has one mucus gel layer whereas the colon has two layers: an outer, loose layer that allows the long-term colonisation of commensal bacteria, and an inner dense layer empty of bacteria. Mucin degradation has been recognized as a normal process of mucus turn-over in the GI tract, but selective bacterial species can degrade mucous glycans as an energy source in the absence of other food sources and so if degradation outperforms secretion, we start to have a problem. Furthermore, diets high in refined products, sugars and saturated fats are also associated with compromised mucosal function. Early stress is also linked to impaired mucosal development, so the health of our puppy’s gut really does start with the Mother! Prevalence of SIBO SIBO has also been noted in dogs with existing chronic intestinal disease, and although many breeds are affected, German Shepherds are seemingly predominant in reports. SIBO is regularly seen in dogs with exocrine pancreatic sufficiency. Juice culture is the gold standard for SIBO diagnosis, but it is often described as being technically difficult, time-consuming and expensive. In addition, bacterial counts may be influenced by environmental factors and infective load. One of the first things to consider is whether your dog is currently eating an antigenic diet – with the increased intestinal permeability that often accompanies SIBO, establishing sensitivities is a good place to start. Elimination Diets For Dogs In addition to this, if SIBO has been prolonged there may be underlying nutrient deficiencies so
On average, a dog may spend 3.3 minutes eating grass, per day. Now, when there are 1,440 minutes in a day, it doesn’t seem that much does it? However, when most dogs head on over to a grassy tuft and start eating, most owners start to worry, it’s certainly a question we are asked often here at My Pet Nutritionist. This is largely due to the common misconception that dogs who eat grass are nutritionally deficient or because vomiting sometimes follows a grass-eating session, they have an upset tummy. Well, we’re here to explore why grass-eating may not be what you think it is, and we’re talking about cats too! Plant Eating Mammals can be roughly divided into three groups: Carnivores, Omnivores, Herbivores, Plants are the primary food source of herbivores and relatively abundant in the environment. The composition of plant tissue is quite different from animals; plant cell walls are rich in carbohydrates especially cellulose, which is difficult for animals to digest. Furthermore, several plants contain toxic compounds as built-in defences (to prevent being eaten). For these reasons, herbivores have developed unique digestive systems to detoxify these compounds and obtain nutrients from these plant cells. Cats, however, are unable to detoxify phenolic compounds found in plants. The Struggle of The Cat in Our Toxic World But there is historical evidence of plant material ingestion in carnivores, both cats and dogs. Some suggest it’s accidental intake, whereas others argue there may be some advantages to plant eating. So why do dogs eat grass? Illness One particular study explored grass eating in dogs. All dogs participating in the study had a full health check carried out by a vet and they were deemed in good health. There were no reported parasites and did not have any diagnosed digestive issues. In 12 dogs, 709 grass eating events occurred. Vomiting only occurred after 5 events. The researchers concluded that there was no evidence grass-eating was linked to sickness. Findings Here Gut Guardian Could it be that we tend to pay more attention to the instances that end in vomiting and therefore consider it sickness related? As humans we do seem to be hard-wired to remember negative experiences as opposed to positive ones. Findings Here Deficient Diet There is also little evidence to support the idea that dogs eat grass to gain vital nutrients they aren’t receiving from their usual diet. When explored, there was no indication that dogs fed a table scrap, commercial or raw food diet were more or less likely to eat grass. You’d think there would be some nutritional differences across the range of diets – but all dogs across that range of diets were still prone to grass-eating. Findings Here So, is grass just a food source to dogs? When considering how much grass dogs eat and when, it is clear that dogs eat more grass before their usual mealtime. Dogs tend to eat more grass in the morning, then as the day wears on, time spent eating grass, reduces. Findings Here This data could suggest that grass-eating is simply a hunger response. As grass is often widely accessed, it’s an easy food source! Parasite Control Grass-eating behaviour is an innate predisposition inherited from wild canid ancestors. It is believed that purging on plants was an effective way to control intestinal parasites. Plant-material is difficult to digest and so it passes right through the digestive tract. As it passes through the tract, it takes the parasites with it. They are then simply pooped out. Findings Here Here it’s easy to panic and think, if your dog is eating grass, he must have worms; but no studies to date have shown this to be the case. Our dogs are simply demonstrating a behaviour that is innate to them. Dogs under the age of one are noted as more frequent grass-eaters than older dogs. We can firstly consider this a behaviour; like babies, puppies also explore their world through their mouth, but researchers have suggested this is more likely related to their ability to fight pathogens. Maintenance metabolism, the energy required to maintain homeostasis, scales fractionally with body size and as such, smaller animals require more metabolic energy per unit of body mass. Therefore, energy loss caused by parasites has higher consequences for smaller carnivores. It is in the younger dog’s interest to ensure they remain free of parasites. The same applies to cats. The energetic cost of parasite load is relatively high for the cat. In evolutionary sense, they would have also had a higher exposure to potentially harmful pathogens through increased food intake. Plant eating in cats has also been considered a way to evacuate hair or undigested materials. Sugar-cane-derived fibres have been seen to reduce the size of hairballs in the scat of domestic cats. An interesting cycle is proposed in the cat. Fleas are the main ectoparasite in the cat, and self-grooming with their rough tongue is one of the main removal strategies. As the flea load increases, the intensity of grooming increase, which is likely to increase ingestion of its own hair. So, plant eating could be a control for both ecto and endo parasites in the cat. Findings Here Liver Guard Is Eating Grass Bad For Dogs? Whilst some dogs do vomit after eating grass, it’s not usually linked to any further complications. The issue arises when dogs eat grass that has been chemically treated. There are many reports of glyphosate toxicity; a common product used to control weeds. Accidental exposure has resulted in vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy. Dogs also develop respiratory distress. Cats appear more sensitive, more often resulting in fatalities. Findings Here Glyphosate and My Dog You also have the risk of toxic plants which are not limited to, but include: Sago Palm Tomato Plant Ivy Amaryllis Gladiola American Holly Daffodil Milkweed Castor Bean Azalea/Rhododendron Tulip Chrysanthemum Begonia Oleander There is little evidence to suggest any nutritional or illness related reasons for a dog to eat grass and there is consistency
Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we take a holistic view of your pet’s health. So, whilst we focus primarily on nutritional adjustments we can make, we look at everything else that is going on for your pet too. Not surprisingly we find that stress is a key player in many of the concerns brought to us. Most of us are familiar with the concept of stress, but do we truly understand the mechanism and the far-reaching impact it has on the body? Stress is huge, so we’ll try to condense it as much as we can. Stay with us. Despite the biological stress response being around for millennia, we first started paying attention to the actual response in the early part of the 1900s. Walter Cannon was the first Professor of Physiology at Harvard, and he was particularly interested in how the body managed to maintain its balance even when faced with things that could threaten it’s being. Building on this, Hans Selye established that no matter the stressor, each body (and brain) experienced the same cascade of responses. He also proposed that during the response to one stressor, our ability to withstand another is diminished. We often reference his theory when we discuss trigger stacking – and we’ve all been there – that day, when you miss your alarm, you spill the milk as you’re putting it in your coffee, then you lose your keys – and your ability to manage challenges that day just seems reduced. But on a biological level, we also see that when we are going through particularly stressful times, our immune system isn’t quite as nifty as dealing with threats and so we start picking up bugs and that old faithful cold sore rears its ugly head. The same concept applies to dogs, and if you sadly share your life with a reactive dog, you’ll see trigger stacking in them too. Equally, if they live with chronic stress, their immune function may go rogue too. This is why we always consider stress levels in those dogs who suffer with inflammatory skin issues. What is Stress? The official response starts in the brain. The amygdala, being the part of the brain that deals with emotions, sends a message to the hypothalamus which is like the command centre of the body. It communicates with the rest of the body through the autonomic nervous system which controls involuntary body functions like breathing, blood pressure and heartbeat. The autonomic nervous system is then split further into two branches, the sympathetic nervous system, and the parasympathetic nervous system. These are the systems that we are particularly interested in in the stress response. The Sympathetic Nervous System This system is known as the fight or flight system. We can think of it like the gas pedal of the stress response. This system: Dilates pupils – to see oncoming danger, Inhibits saliva production, Dilates bronchia, Increases heart rate, Inhibits the activity of the digestive system, Relaxes urinary bladder, This system is like a redistribution centre. When the body is faced with a stressor that can challenge body homeostasis, it redirects resources to re-balance. Blood is sent to the limbs to mobilise and why waste energy on food digestion? But this is where we see many issues. As we know, to absorb and utilise nutrients the digestive system needs to do its job. If the stress response is inhibiting the action of the digestive system, then it can’t do what it needs to. As part of sympathetic response, corticotropin-releasing-factor (CRF) is released. The name isn’t particularly important, but it seemingly plays a considerable role in altering gastrointestinal functions. It has been found that CRF: Inhibits gastric acid secretion Inhibits small intestine transit Increases intestinal permeability Increases visceral sensitivity Gastric Acid Secretion Gastric acid is a digestive fluid formed in the stomach, produced by parietal cells. The highly acidic environment in the stomach causes proteins from foods to lose their folded structure (denature) which exposes the peptide bonds. It is therefore a key player in protein digestion. Gastric acid secretion is regulated by the parasympathetic nervous system via the vagus nerve and by the hormone gastrin which stimulates the parietal cells. There is also an increased risk of infection with reduced gastric acid secretion. Low or no gastric acid can reduce the disinfectant properties of the gastric lumen. Gastric acid suppression is also associated with the development of food intolerances and allergies. Findings Here Small Intestine Transit The small intestine is chiefly involved in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, it receives pancreatic secretions and bile through the hepatopancreatic duct to aid its functions. In the stress response, it is thought that this mechanism encourages vomiting to expel potential pathogens, as in the large intestine, transit time is increased, again to aid expulsion. Poor motility can lead to small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) which is frequently implicated in nutritional deficiencies, malabsorption, weight loss and bowel changes like diarrhoea. Findings Here Intestinal Permeabilit The intestinal barrier is made up of tight junctions which allows the absorption of nutrients whilst limiting the transport of potential harmful antigens. Early stress and chronic stress have been seen to increase intestinal permeability both through TJ function and mucous degradation. Animal studies have demonstrated that early life stress impairs development of mucosal barrier function, becoming a predisposing factor to intestinal disorders in adult life. However, these stress induced changes do seem to respond to probiotic intervention. Probiotics have been seen to restore colonic tight junction integrity and enhance the mucus barrier. This is largely because stress impacts the bacterial community found in the gut. Studies have shown that early life maternal separation, for example, results in a significant decrease in fecal lactobacillus numbers, three days post separation. Mothers who report feeling stressed have a significantly higher number of proteobacteria and lower lactic acid bacteria. Findings Here Visceral Sensitivity Evidence suggests that long term stress facilitates pain perception and sensitises pain pathways. There is a clear gene-environment interaction which
A question that often pops up here at My Pet Nutritionist so we thought we’d do a whistle stop tour on the gallbladder and some of the more common issues that can arise when it’s not functioning as it should. Let’s get cracking. The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that sits just under the liver. Its function is to store and concentrate bile, a yellow-brown digestive juice produced by the liver. It is part of the biliary tract. When food enters the small intestine, a hormone known as cholecystokinin is released, this tells the gallbladder to contract and secrete bile into the small intestine, through the common bile duct. There are two important functions of bile: Bile contains bile acids, which are critical for digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the small intestine. Many waste products, including bilirubin, are eliminated from the body by secretion into bile and elimination in faeces. Bile contains water, electrolytes and a battery of organic molecules including bile acids, cholesterol, phospholipids and bilirubin. Sadly, the build up of these very compounds can lead to a number of problems in the gallbladder, they are known as canine gallbladder diseases and include: Biliary Sludge Gallbladder mucoceles Gallstones Gut Guardian Biliary Sludge Gallbladder sludge is a collection of cholesterol, calcium, bilirubin, and other compounds that build up in the gallbladder. It is more technically known as biliary sludge. It is not technically a condition on its own, but it’s presence can lead to further issues. Gallbladder sludge has been associated with: Obesity Rapid weight loss Cholecystitis – the swelling and inflammation of the gallbladder. It can result in bile trapped in the gallbladder, causing pain, vomiting, and bloating Blocked biliary ducts – these allow the gallbladder to drain – if sludge can’t escape, it accumulates Of interest, biliary sludge has been associated with acute cases of pancreatitis. In human cases, where no cause of pancreatitis could be found, upwards of 30% of patients showed evidence of biliary sludge. Findings Here If the initial cause of gallbladder sludge is rectified, then it often resolves on its own. However, if the factors remain, gallbladder sludge can lead to gallstones. Gallstones Gallstones are not surprisingly, small stones that form in the gallbladder. It’s when there is an imbalance in the usual liquid composition of bile inside. Because inadequate emptying or infrequent gallbladder movement are usual factors that increase the likelihood of gallstones forming, it’s easy to see how biliary sludge can lead to gallstones. Risk Factors for gallstones; Obesity, Older age, Disorders of the digestive system, Rapid weight loss, Signs and Symptoms of gallstones: Vomiting Jaundice Loss of appetite Abdominal pain Fever Discomfort after eating Gallstones are more commonly seen in older dogs, and often in smaller breeds like miniature schnauzers and miniature poodles. They may be identified in the gallbladder, common bile ducts, hepatic, or interlobular ducts. They are generally composed of cholesterol, bile pigments and calcium carbonate. Gallbladder mucoceles (GBM) A gallbladder mucocele is an abnormal accumulation of bile laden mucoid material within the gallbladder, resulting in bile duct obstruction. Mucins, which play a major role in the development of gallbladder mucoceles, are a family of polysaccharides secreted by mucosal epithelial cells of the gallbladder, stomach, intestines and other organs. Mucins act as surfactants and play a mucoprotective role by preventing self-digestion of mucosal epithelium by digestive juices. A gallbladder mucocele is characterized by the excessive secretion of mucin from gallbladder epithelium. Dogs who have suffered with GBM have ranged in age from 3-14 years old, but middle to older aged dogs are thought to be at a higher risk. A genetic mutation has also been found on the ABCB4 (MDR3) phospholipase flippase transported in Shetland Sheepdogs and others. There is an increased incidence in these dogs along with Miniature Schnauzers and Cocker Spaniels. Findings Here Signs and Symptoms of GBM: Loss of appetite Lethargy Vomiting Diarrhoea Jaundice Abdominal pain or discomfort The underlying cause of GBM is essentially unknown, but there are considered associations. For example, gallbladder mucoceles has been associated metabolic disruption. Dogs with GBM: are characterized by significantly diminished antioxidant capacity demonstrate altered energy metabolism have abnormal lipid metabolism demonstrate presence of xenobiotics compared to controls In addition, those dogs with GBM formation show increases in certain compounds that suggest they are in a state of excess metabolic energy. This is why these dogs show lower levels of pantothenate, riboflavin and nicotinamide riboside because there is an increased demand for these compounds in energy transportation. Findings Here There is also consideration given to hydration state; studies have indicated an underlying defect in electrolyte, acid-base or fluid transport. Findings Here Finally, the formation of gallbladder mucoceles has been associated with certain medication use: Dogs with GBM were 2.2 times as likely to have had reported use of thyroxine 3.6 times as likely to have had reported treatment for Cushing’s disease 2.3 times as likely to have had reported use of products containing imidacloprid (insecticide) Findings Here Supporting Healthy Gallbladder Function Maintain an ideal body score Obesity in Pets – Part One Obesity in Pets – Part Two Support digestive function Low Fat Kangaroo The Dog’s Digestive System Optimal Gut Health Pancreatitis: Natural Guide for Pets Stay hydrated! Offer filtered water and ditch the dry! Offer antioxidant rich foods! Berries and leafy greens are a great place to start! Dietary Patterns Studies have indicated that the consumption of sugar, refined grains, processed meats and low-fat food products are associated with increased risk of gallstone disease. Likewise, the intake of nuts, fruits, vegetables and omega-3 PUFAs is associated with reduced gallstone disease. Supportive nutrients in terms of gallbladder health include fibre, magnesium, and vitamin C. Findings Here Why Is Magnesium So Important to Your Pet Why Fibre is Good For Your Dog Why Chia Is So Good For Your Dog Issues with the gallbladder are sadly not that simple, there are several factors to consider. If you are concerned about your dog’s gallbladder or liver
Histamine intolerance (HIT), more technically known as enteral histaminosis, is characterised by the development of problematic symptoms after the ingestion of histamine containing foods. However, current schools of thought are that HIT is not solely due to dietary histamine exposure, but exposure along with insufficient or impaired histamine detoxification. We can see the raised eyebrows from here, so here at My Pet Nutritionist, we thought we’d take a closer look at this issue. What is histamine Histamine is a transmitter in the nervous system and a signalling molecule in the gut, skin, and immune system. It is synthesised from the amino acid histidine which is in fact an essential amino acid for humans and dogs. It is primarily associated with the functioning of the immune system. During an immune reaction, histamine is released from mast cells throughout the body and contributes to the physical changes necessary for the immune system to fight the pathogen, like the increase in blood pressure, temperature, swelling, and constriction in the lungs. Histamine is released to carry out a function and then it is removed, or it should be, efficiently. Detoxification of dietary histamine normally occurs in intestinal epithelial cells via the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO) as well as histamine-N-methyl-transferase (HNMT) in the liver. The term histamine intolerance is used similarly to lactose intolerance in humans (LIT). LIT, with a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, shows parallels to the definition of HIT, with a deficiency of the GI enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO). DAO is a secretory protein stored in structures of the plasma membrane and is responsible for the degradation of extracellular histamine. The expression of DAO is restricted to certain tissues, mainly the small intestine, colon, placenta and kidneys. In the intestine, DAO activity increases progressively from the duodenum to the ileum and is located mainly in the intestinal villi. On the other hand, the enzyme HNMT is expressed in a wide range tissues including the kidneys and liver, the spleen, colon, prostate, ovaries, spinal cord cells, trachea, and respiratory tract. The gateway for dietary histamine is the intestinal epithelium. So, although HNMT is also present in the gastrointestinal tract, the more highly expressed DAO plays the major role in protecting the body against exogenous histamine, whether originating from ingested food or generated by the intestinal microbiota. What Can Cause Deficiencies in DAO? There are polymorphisms in the genes that encode for the DAO enzyme, but certain medications, including over the counter products are seen to inhibit the activity of DAO enzyme too. They include: Analgesics – morphine, NSAIDs Antiarrhythmics Antibiotics Antifungals Antimalarial Diuretics Motility agents Muscle relaxants Vitamins – ascorbic acid, thiamine Findings Here Furthermore, several inflammatory bowel pathologies affecting mucosal integrity are known to result in impaired DAO activity. DAO activity has been proposed as a marker of the integrity of intestinal mucosa. In inflammatory bowel diseases, reduced DAO activity was related to the degree of mucosal damage. In one human study, DAO activity was significantly reduced in cases of ulcerative colitis compared to the control population. gut guardian can help support histamine intolerance and allergies. Findings Here Gut Guardian Prevalence of DAO deficiency in HIT In human studies, 80% of patients showing symptoms of HIT also demonstrated DAO deficiency. Symptoms of HIT include: urticaria pruritus diarrhoea abdominal pain vomiting constipation cough rhinitis If DAO production is low, histamine blood serum will inevitably be high. This is where the liver needs to be functioning effeciently, to assist with excess histamine metabolism. Liver Guard Diagnosing HIT Currently the general rule of thumb is that two or more symptoms of HIT are being presented. Other gastrointestinal pathologies should also be dismissed. Low histamine diets are recommended in the short term, to establish remission or improvement in symptoms. Low Histamine Diets Foods that potentially contain high levels of histamine are: a) those microbiologically altered, such as fish and meat, or derived products that may have been preserved or processed in unsuitably hygienic conditions. b) fermented products, in which the bacteria responsible for the fermentation process may also have aminogenic capacity. If you would like more information on low histamine diets check out our blog here. Low Histamine Diets for Dogs More are now acknowledging the role of DAO inhibitor medications and the result on histamine load. In addition, we must consider how the health of the gut may be influencing enzyme capacity and so we really need to take a look at the bigger picture. Does My Pet Need to Detox 7 Steps to Optimal Gut Health for Pets If any of this is ringing a little true for your dog, then please check out our services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team MPN x
