When establishing the health status of pets, we often pursue a battery of tests. Whilst they may have been explained, you won’t be the first one to wonder what exactly the tests measure and what the numbers mean. One of the most common tests, along with kidney, is liver function. These tests are then talked about in terms of liver enzymes. But what are these liver enzymes and what jobs do they carry out in the body? Here at My Pet Nutritionist we thought we’d compile a brief guide to liver enzyme function. But before we get cracking, we need to understand a little more about the liver. What is the liver? The liver is one of the largest organs in the body and we call it the powerhouse for good reason. It has some incredible metabolic functions. It converts the nutrients in the diet into substances that the body can use, stores these substances, and supplies cells with them when needed. It also takes up toxic substances and converts them into harmless substances or makes sure they are released from the body. In short, if it’s not working as it should, us or our pets are in a little bit of trouble. How does it work? Liver tissue is made up of lots of smaller units of liver cells called lobules. Many canals carrying blood and bile run between the liver cells. Blood coming from digestive organs flows through the portal vein to the liver, carrying nutrients, medication, and toxic substances. Once they reach the liver, these substances are processed, stored, altered, detoxified, and passed back into the blood or released in the bowel to be eliminated. In this way, for us humans the liver can remove alcohol from our blood and for both us and our pets, it can get rid of by-products from the breakdown of medications and more! Another function of the liver, with the help of vitamin K, it produces proteins that are important in blood clotting. It is also one of the organs that break down old or damaged blood cells. To carry out its job effectively, the liver has enzymes. What are enzymes? Enzymes are proteins that speed up processes in the body, you’ll probably be familiar with digestive enzymes; these are compounds which speed up the digestion of food. So, liver enzymes speed up the processes the liver carries out. Enzymes are found in liver cells, so the reason you may have heard of elevated enzymes is because damaged or inflamed liver cells can release enzymes into the bloodstream, of which a blood test picks up. What are the liver enzymes? Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) AST is an enzyme found mostly in the heart and liver and to a lesser extent in skeletal muscle. It plays a role in amino acid metabolism – transferring amino groups. When heart, liver or muscle cells are injured, they release AST into the bloodstream. ALT, which stands for alanine transaminase, is an enzyme found mostly in the liver. It helps break down proteins for the body to absorb, and therefore also plays a role in converting food into energy in the body. When liver cells are damaged, they release ALT into the bloodstream. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) ALP is an enzyme found in the liver and bone and is important for breaking down proteins. Higher-than-normal levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease. Gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) GGT is an enzyme found throughout the body, but it is mostly found in the liver. GGT is typically the first liver enzyme to increase in the blood when any liver bile ducts become blocked or constricted. The primary role of GGT is the extracellular catabolism of glutathione, the major thiol antioxidant in cells, therefore playing a significant role in protecting cells against oxidants produced during normal metabolism. In short, GGT plays an important role in cellular defence. This is why GGT levels are often elevated in cases of environmental toxicity. Liver Guard br] What can cause elevated enzyme levels? All dogs should be assessed individually, but there are some common themes which contribute to higher enzyme levels than the general canine population. Certain Medications As the liver plays such a role in the metabolism and detoxification of medications, we often find that certain medications can contribute to higher-than-normal levels. Vaccine Adjuvants A study carried out in 2012 established an apoptotic effect of the hepatitis B vaccine in the mouse liver. What this means is that after vaccine administration, cell death occurred in the liver. As we know, damage to cells in the liver can result in enzymes being released into the bloodstream. It was thought that the adjuvant aluminum hydroxide played a role in cell apoptosis. It’s important to acknowledge that this study was carried out on mice, but that’s largely because researchers aren’t queuing up to dissect canine livers after they’ve had a vaccine, thankfully! But it’s important to note that this adjuvant can be found in some vaccines administered to pets. Food Aflatoxins (AF) found in food have been associated with increased biomarkers in liver function and oxidative stress. Aflatoxins are found in cereals and nuts and we can head back to 1952 to understand the true risk of them. In 1952, an outbreak of fatal liver disease in dogs occurred in the southeastern United States. The disease, termed hepatitis X, was characterised by icterus, lethargy, anorexia, petechiae, epistaxis, and hematemesis. Affected dogs died one to 14 days after clinical presentation. The postmortem findings of hepatitis X were noted to be similar to those in swine and cattle after ingestion of mouldy corn. The disease resulted from exposure to aflatoxins produced by the fungus Aspergillus species. In 1959, the role of aflatoxins in hepatitis X was confirmed when a group of dogs acquired the disease after being fed purified aflatoxin. Outbreaks of aflatoxicosis sadly do occur. In 2005, there were a number of acute outbreaks of hepatic failure in dogs across the United States which raised
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we describe the liver as the powerhouse, simply because it has so many jobs. For this reason, when it’s feeling a little under the weather, the ramifications can be widespread. What is it they say, prevention is better than cure? With this in mind, are there foods we can include in our pet’s diet that can support liver health? Of course! Certain wholefoods contain a range of nutrients which can support our dog’s whole health, so here are a few of our favourite foods to support liver health. 1) Blueberries Almost all chronic liver disease is under the background of elevated oxidative stress. This occurs when the number of free radicals found in the body outweighs its ability to cope with them. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals. This versatile berry contains anthocyanins which function as antioxidants which been seen to protect the liver from oxidative stress. Studies have found that in the livers of rats, such protective compounds found in fruits like blueberries slowed the development of scar tissue and may be useful in the prevention of hepatic fibrosis. Other fruits rich in antioxidants include: Cranberries Raspberries Strawberries Mango, Watermelon Blackberries 2) Leafy Green Vegetables (kale, spinach etc.) Not only does this family of vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits, but they also have the added ability of increasing the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes. Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack. Detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our dog’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Phases I and II are particularly nutrient demanding, and it goes without saying that the higher the burden on the phases (the more toxins our dogs are exposed to), the higher the nutrient requirement again. Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential and this is where our trusty greens come in. In leafy greens you get substantial amounts of vitamins such as A, C, K, and many of the B’s including folate (B9), plus minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. You’ll also find lots of fibre made up of complex carbohydrates, and antioxidant phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. 3) Fatty Fish (mackerel, tuna, sardines etc.) Consuming fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly can help modulate inflammation and it is this mechanism that is crucial to so many health issues in both us and our dogs. Inflammation is a normal response of the body to protect tissues from infection, injury, or disease. The inflammatory response begins with the production and release of chemical agents by cells in the infected, injured, or diseased tissue. These agents cause redness, swelling, pain, heat, and loss of function. Inflamed tissues generate additional signals that recruit leukocytes to the site of inflammation. Leukocytes destroy any infective or injurious agent and remove cellular debris from damaged tissue. This inflammatory response usually promotes healing but, if uncontrolled, may become harmful. Acute inflammation typically lasts only a few days. If a wound gets hot, turns red, hurts, and swells, we recognize that inflammation is at work. In this instance, inflammation is a beneficial process, serving to immobilize the area of injury as the rest of the immune system mobilizes to heal. In contrast, chronic inflammation lasts weeks, months or even indefinitely and causes tissue damage, and this too can occur in the liver. In chronic inflammation, the inflammation becomes the problem rather than the solution. Chronically inflamed tissues continue to generate signals that request help from leukocytes in the bloodstream. When leukocytes reach the tissue, they bring inflammation to the party. This chronic inflammatory response can break down healthy tissue in a misdirected attempt at repair and healing. Inflammation and Fatty Acids Arachidonic acid is an omega-6 acid that is involved in the synthesis of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids play an important role in the body, they modulate many processes including reproduction, blood pressure, haemostasis and of course inflammation. The issue occurs when there are too many. This is why we are particularly interested in balancing out our omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Many commercial foods come in higher on the omega 6 front, and so we really need to be adding some wonderful omega 3’s to the bowl (in the form of oily fish). Not only this, but omega-3 fatty acids inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces the prostaglandin hormones that spark inflammation. The action is similar to what happens when NSAIDs are ingested which also disrupts the COX-2 signalling pathway, reducing inflammation. The inclusion of omega 3’s in your dog’s diets is beneficial to whole body health, not just liver health. Essential Fats for My Dog’s Diet 4) Eggs Eggs are sources of choline, and this nutrient is particularly useful to the liver. Most choline is metabolized in the liver where it is converted into phosphatidylcholine, which assists in building fat-carrying proteins and breaking down cholesterol. True choline deficiencies have regularly been linked to liver disease. Whilst eggs are a good source, you will also find choline in beef, beef liver, chicken, fish, shiitake mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts. If you would like to learn more about the nutrients to support liver health in your dog, check out our blog here: Foods to Feed in Liver Disease And if you would like to learn more about conditions that can affect your dog’s liver, check out our blog here: Natural Guide to Liver Disease If you are concerned about your dog’s health and would like to speak with us, then please check out our services. Thanks for reading, MPN Team
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we often describe the liver as the body’s powerhouse, and there are some very good reasons for this. When it goes wrong it can go very wrong, but for us to understand why, we first need to know the function of the liver. So here it is, our brief guide to liver function in pets. What is the Liver? The liver is one of the largest organs in the body. It has some super metabolic functions. It converts the nutrients in the diet into substances that the body can use, stores these substances, and supplies cells with them when needed. In addition, it also takes up toxic substances and converts them into harmless substances or makes sure they are released from the body. Liver tissue is made up of lots of smaller units of liver cells called lobules. Many canals carrying blood and bile run between the liver cells. Blood coming from digestive organs flows through the portal vein to the liver, carrying nutrients, medication, and also toxic substances. Once they reach the liver, these substances are processed, stored, altered, detoxified, and passed back into the blood or released in the bowel to be eliminated. In this way, for us humans the liver can remove alcohol from our blood and for both us and our pets, it can get rid of by-products from the breakdown of medications. With the help of vitamin K, the liver produces proteins that are important in blood clotting. It is also one of the organs that break down old or damaged blood cells. Main Functions of The Liver Metabolic Processes In fat metabolism the liver cells break down fats to produce energy. Liver cells produce bile which helps the small intestine break down and absorb fats, cholesterol, and those fat soluble vitamins. Bile consists of bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water. In carbohydrate metabolism, the liver helps to ensure that the level of sugar found in the blood (blood glucose) stays constant. If blood sugar levels increase, for example after a meal, the liver removes sugar from blood supplied by the portal vein and stores it in the form of glycogen. If blood sugar levels are too low, the liver breaks down glycogen and releases sugar into the blood. In the metabolism of protein, liver cells change amino acids in foods so they can be used around the body, or to produce energy. Ammonia is the by-product of this process, and the liver converts ammonia to a less toxic product known as urea. This is released into the blood and then transported to the kidneys to pass out of the body in urine. Liver Guard Absorbing and Metabolising Bilirubin Bilirubin is an orange-yellow pigment, a waste product primarily produced by the normal breakdown of haem, which is a component of a protein called haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is found in red blood cells and gives them their characteristic red colour and is used to carry oxygen round the body. Bilirubin is ultimately processed by the liver to allow its elimination from the body. High levels of bilirubin can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes and can be harmful to the body. Supporting Blood Clots Vitamin K is necessary for the creation of coagulants that help clot the blood. Bile is essential for vitamin K absorption and is created in the liver. If the liver does not produce enough bile, clotting factors cannot be produced. Vitamin and Mineral Storage The liver stores vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12. The liver stores iron from haemoglobin in the form of ferritin, ready to make new red blood cells. The liver also stores and releases copper (which is why copper toxicity in dogs is associated with liver failure). Filters the Blood The liver filters and removes compounds from the body, this includes those synthesised in the body like hormones and also those from outside of the body, like medication. Whilst we describe the liver as a powerhouse, we don’t want to overburden it. This is why looking at environmental exposure of harmful compounds is crucial to supporting our pet’s health. Does My Pet Need to Detox Immunological Function The liver is part of the mononuclear phagocyte system. It contains high numbers of Kupffer cells that are involved in immune activity. These cells destroy any disease-causing agents that might enter the liver through the gut. Your Pet’s Immune System Liver Guard Production of Albumin Albumin is a protein found in the blood. It transports fatty acids and steroid hormones to help maintain pressure and prevent the leaking of blood vessels. It is the higher circulating albumin found in dogs that suggests they possess an increased fat oxidation capacity, in comparison to humans. Synthesis of Angiotensinogen This hormone raises blood pressure by narrowing the blood vessels when alerted by production of an enzyme called renin in the kidneys. Did you know? In mice, if two thirds of their liver is removed, the remaining tissue can regrow to its original size within 5-7 days! In humans, this process takes slightly longer, but it can still occur. In dogs, the mechanism is thought to occur similarly to that in the mouse., but maximum response is seen after three days, as opposed to 24-hour peak in rat regeneration. Findings Here As you can see, there are many reasons why we describe the liver as the powerhouse of the body. It plays a huge role in digestive function, metabolism and even immune function. Sadly, there are a number of factors that can contribute to its poor function: Poor diet Stress Endocrine disease Infectious agents Trauma Pharmaceuticals Vaccinosis Copper toxicity If you would like to learn more about what can go wrong with the liver, check out the following My Pet Nutritionist blogs. Ultimate Guide to Liver Disease Vaccinosis Liver Shunts If you are concerned about your pet’s health, please check out our services to see if we may be able to help. Thanks for reading, Team
In our last blog we considered the importance of minerals for your dog’s health, but we only got so far. There are further minerals, ones we deem trace minerals, which are also important to optimal health. So, let’s get cracking. Chromium Within human realms, chromium is mostly talked about for its role in modulating blood glucose levels. It is considered that chromium acts as a cofactor that can enhance the effects of insulin on target tissues. In states of chromium deficiency, abnormal glucose utilisation results along with increased insulin demands. Findings Here Along with potentiating the action of insulin, chromium increases uptake of amino acids into muscle, heart, and liver and enhances protein synthesis. It also plays a role in regulating blood lipids. Increased Risk of Deficiency: Diets high in sugars and refined carbohydrates (results in increased urinary excretion of chromium) Increased stress (physical activity, infection, trauma or illness) Pregnancy Ageing Sources of Chromium: Broccoli Turkey Chicken Brewer’s Yeast Cobalt One of the things you may not have realised about Cobalt is that it is an integral part of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin – get it?). Why Your Dog Needs Vitamin B12 Cobalt is therefore essential for the function of cells. It is involved in the production of red blood cells and the production of antibacterial and antiviral compounds that prevent infections. This mineral plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates as well as the synthesis of proteins and conversion of folate in their active form. In the nervous system, cobalt also plays a role in the prevention of demyelination, which is a condition that results in damage to the membrane that covers the nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This ensures efficient nerve transmission. Copper Copper has a number of functions throughout the body including: Energy production in mitochondria Mobilisation and transfer or iron from storage sites to the bone marrow Synthesis of collagen and elastin in connective tissue Acts as an antioxidant (as zinc/copper superoxide dismutase) Supports synthesis of melanin in the skin Synthesis of adrenaline and noradrenaline in the nervous system Breakdown of serotonin, histamine and dopamine Increased Risk of Deficiency: High intakes of supplemental iron, molybdenum, or zinc Prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors (acid reducers) Gastrointestinal disorders (chronic diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease) Increased levels of oxidative stress (air pollution, toxin exposure) Signs of Deficiency: Anaemia Increased vulnerability to oxidative damage Reduced immune responses Abnormal skeletal growth Changes and loss of hair and skin pigmentation Lethargy Excessive copper build-up in the liver can cause liver disease in some dogs. Common breeds of dog that are affected include Bedlington terriers, Labrador retrievers, and Dalmatians. There are clear genetic implications found in Bedlington Terriers which prevents normal copper excretion. Three forms of the disease occur: (i) asymptomatic – in which signs are yet to develop, (ii) acute -seen in dogs up to six years of age, with the sudden onset of severe illness shown as depression, anorexia (not eating) vomiting and possibly jaundice (yellowing of mucous membranes, whites of eyes and skin), and (iii) chronic – seen in middle-aged dogs with signs of chronic liver damage and sometimes failure which may show vomiting, weight loss, jaundice and abdominal swelling. It is considered that many commercial dog foods report total copper levels as higher than recommended, and some home-made diets may not furnish adequate amounts of copper. Findings Here That said, data indicates that copper absorption is greater when diets are animal protein rather than plant protein. Findings Here Iodine An essential mineral, iodine is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones that control many functions in the body including growth and development. If you would like to learn more about the thyroid gland and the conditions that often affect it, check out our blogs here: Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism in Cats Iodine can only be obtained from diet or in supplemental form. Of interest, concurrent deficiencies in selenium, iron or vitamin A may exacerbate the effects of iodine deficiency. Seaweed like wakame are rich in iodine, but other sources include eggs and poultry. Iron Functions: Oxygen transport Oxygen storage as myoglobin Energy production Cofactor for multiple enzymes Production of neurotransmitters and thyroid hormone There are two sources of iron, haem, and non-haem. Haem is found primarily in meat and meat products where non-haem is found in plants. Haem is generally well-absorbed, whereas non-haem absorption is largely affected by other factors. Common inhibitors of iron absorption are phytates, tannins, starch, and proton pump inhibitors. The body has three unique mechanisms for maintaining iron balance and preventing deficiency and overload: Storage of iron Reutilisation of iron Regulation of iron absorption Iron from food is mainly absorbed in the duodenum. Iron can be in ferrous state (Fe2+) or ferric state (Fe3+). Fe3+ is not directly absorbed, but Fe2+ is easily absorbed. In the intestine, Fe3+ is converted by ferric reductases into Fe2+. When required by the body, iron is transported by transferrin to bone marrow and other tissues. Iron is required for the transport of oxygen, oxygen storage in muscle and is also a component of energy production. After absorption, any iron that isn’t needed, is stored as ferritin in the liver, spleen, or bone marrow. During times of high need, iron is then released. Most of the iron in the body is contained within red blood cells. Red blood cells have been noted to have a life span of around 110-120 days but when they reach the end of their life span, they release iron. The resultant liberated iron can be reused to produce new erythrocytes in bone marrow, stored as ferritin or released back into systemic circulation. Iron deficiency anaemia is the common condition associated with decreased iron levels, resulting in low circulating haemoglobin and reduced myoglobin. Iron deficiency is also associated with lower T and B lymphocyte, macrophage, and neutrophil function. Your Pet’s Immune System On the other side of the scale, iron toxicity is generally associated with supplementation. At a
If you have been following any nutrition nerds (including us here at My Pet Nutritionist) then you will have likely come across the terms macro and micronutrients. We tend to reference them more commonly in the human realms, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t also apply to our canine companions (and feline for that matter). When we mention macronutrients we are referencing those needed in larger amounts in the body and they encompass protein, fat and carbohydrates. When we consider micronutrients we are looking at vitamins and minerals. Despite them being needed in micro amounts, they are still biologically necessary to all functions in the body. So, let’s take a look at minerals in a little more detail and see why your dog needs them. What is a Mineral? A mineral is a naturally occurring inorganic solid, with a definite chemical composition, and an ordered atomic arrangement. What on earth does this mean we hear you wonder? Well, let’s break it down. Minerals are naturally occurring, meaning they are not made by humans. They are inorganic, meaning they have never been alive. They are solid, meaning they are not liquid or gas. Each of them has a unique structure and arrangement which is how we know what they are. For the dog we are interested in 17 essential minerals. We have macrominerals which are needed in larger amounts and trace minerals which are needed in smaller amounts. Macrominerals Calcium You’ll likely be familiar with calcium as you were probably told to drink your milk so you would have strong teeth and bones. Calcium is the main structural component of skeleton and teeth, but it also plays a role in blood clotting. In addition, it is involved in the intracellular messaging triggering the contraction of muscle fibres. Calcium also plays a role in fat oxidation and it carries ATP (energy) with magnesium. There is an increased risk of deficiency in: Diets containing large quantities of phosphorus and sodium. Fat malabsorption (fat binds calcium, reducing absorption). Vitamin D deficiency. Diets containing large quantities of oxalates. Signs of Deficiency: Poor bone mineralisation, Muscle cramping and spasm, Increased irritability of nerve cells, Abnormal blood clotting and increased bleeding after trauma. Chloride Chloride is one of the most important electrolytes found in the blood. It plays a key role in controlling the amount of water and type of compounds that go in and out of cells. It therefore plays a crucial role in homeostasis. Chloride also contributes to muscle function and this includes the heart. This mineral helps red blood cells exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide too! Lastly, chloride supports digestive processes through its role in the production and release of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, and as we know, without this, foods won’t be properly digested and subsequently absorbed. Low levels of chloride are usually found alongside existing health issues which result in electrolyte imbalances. Sources of Chloride: Himalayan Salt Seaweed Magnesium Here at My Pet Nutritionist, we have a thing about Magnesium, for good reason. If you want to know more about this trusty mineral, then check out our full blog here: Why Is Magnesium So Important to Your Pet But the one often forgotten role of magnesium is the part it plays in energy, so we’ll do a recap. The bottom line is that insufficient micronutrient intake results in poor ATP production in the mitochondria. Remember that ATP is the currency of energy and the mitochondria is the powerplant of the cell, where it all happens. Magnesium and copper are star minerals for making ATP and without enough ATP or energy, the body hasn’t got enough resources to do what it needs to! In addition, a deficiency in magnesium can lead to mitochondrial damage. Signs and Symptoms of Deficiency: Muscle cramps and spasms Anorexia, nausea, vomiting Arrythmias Sodium and water retention Impaired action of vitamin D Increased Risk of Deficiency: Diets emphasizing processed foods and refined grains (largely nutrient deplete) Strenuous training Periods of rapid growth Intestinal malabsorption Medications (diuretics, steroids, laxatives) As a note, magnesium deficiency has also been linked to increased inflammatory cytokines, so this is a consideration to make in any chronic inflammatory condition. Findings Here Phosphorus Phosphorus in mainly used for the growth and repair of body tissues – it is a component part of bones, teeth, RNA and DNA. In the form of phospholipids, phosphorus is also a component of cell membrane structure and of the body’s key energy source, ATP. Many proteins and sugars in the body are phosphorylated. In addition, phosphorus plays key roles in regulation of gene transcription, activation of enzymes, maintenance of normal pH in extracellular fluid, and intracellular energy storage. A range of foods contain phosphorus, mainly in the form of phosphates and phosphate esters. Phosphorus in seeds for example, is in the form of phytic acid, the storage form of phosphorus. Because many species intestines lack the phytase enzyme, much phosphorus in this form is unavailable for absorption. Low phosphorus levels in the body can include anorexia, anaemia, proximal muscle weakness, skeletal effects (bone pain, rickets, and osteomalacia), increased infection risk, ataxia, and confusion. But in most cases, hypophosphatemia (low phosphorus) is caused by existing health conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, kidney disorders, and diabetic ketoacidosis. In cases of chronic kidney disease, their ability to excrete phosphorus becomes compromised. This is why low phosphorus diets are often recommended. Kidney Disease Potassium Another electrolyte, potassium is also involved in energy production and membrane excitability and transport. Throughout the body there are a number of functions that are potassium dependent. If potassium is deficient, these enzymes or proteins are unable to carry out their job as they should. For example, one heat shock cognate protein, involved in protein folding, autophagy, apoptosis and cell stability requires potassium to carry out these functions. In a deficit, cell senescence results, along with DNA damage, carcinogenesis, and neurodegeneration. Findings Here The bottom line is that potassium helps nerves and muscles to function correctly, it maintains a
Dogs are considered senior at half of their life expectancy. For some, this can come around a little earlier than expected. Are there changes we need to make as our dog ages? Well, there are always things we can do to support their health of our companion. Let’s take a look Aging is defined as the process of becoming older and whilst we still haven’t got to grips with the biological process in its entirety, there are some things we do know. Cells are thought to have a finite number of times they can replicate and divide. It is known as the Hayflick Limit. When a cell has reached that limit, it cannot divide anymore and will break down by programmed cell death. It is this limited capability that we see as aging. This programmed cell death usually occurs when telomeres (protective structures found at both ends of chromosomes) reach a critical length. It is therefore considered that telomere length serves as a biological clock. Telomere shortening occurs at every DNA replication – so if there is an increased need for cell replication, they will become shorter. This is why we are particularly interested here at My Pet Nutritionist, because there is such a high turnover of cells in the liver, gastrointestinal tract and skin (all parts of the body that we see many issues with). Shorter telomeres can also induce genomic instability and this sadly, is one of the leading factors in cancer. Cells have planned programmes to divide, replicate and ultimately die (apoptosis) – they get these messages from genes. When genes are unstable, their messages get a little like Chinese whispers and so the cells go rogue – dividing and replicating, but not dying. This aberrant growth is implicated in cancer. Diet can also affect telomeres. A diet contain omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a reduced rate of telomere shortening, Telomere length is positively associated with the consumption of nuts and fruits, Consumption of a diet including Vitamin E, Vitamin C and beta-carotene is also associated with longer telomeres – the inclusion of antioxidant compounds protects against oxidative damage. Dietary restriction also reduces oxidative burden, reducing damage to DNA – for this reason it is regularly associated with improved lifespans. In a study in Labrador retrievers, results indicated that 25 % restriction in food intake increased median life span and delayed the onset of signs of chronic disease. Findings Here The bottom line? The consumption of a whole-food, nutrient dense diet with the inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for the aging pet. Caloric restriction is also a consideration to make. On the other side of the scale, are there things that can negatively affect telomere length? Processed meats, high consumption of sugar over time and high intake of refined grains is negatively associated with telomere length. In short, the consumption of these foods is associated with shorter telomeres. If telomeres are shorter, the cell hits its limit sooner and carries out its programmed death sooner. Findings Here Cognitive Canine Dysfunction Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder of senior dogs. It’s generally considered the dog version of Alzheimer Disease. It is thought that one third of senior dogs will show signs of confusion, restlessness, and less enjoyment of life. It is a result of a decline in higher brain functions, through degeneration. A variety of studies in the veterinary field have supported the proposal of nutritional manipulation, particularly with antioxidants as part of the treatment regime in cases of CDS and reported significant effects of modified diets. Evidence has demonstrated a place for the following nutrients: Antioxidants Alpha-Lipoic Acid Vitamin C Vitamin E L-Carnitine Co-enzyme Q10 EPA and DHA Phosphatidylserine It is considered that nutritional adjustment provided brain strengthening components, signalling enhancers, metabolic support, and antioxidants. Findings Here What was particularly interesting from the above study is that time spent active increased alongside the nutritional adjustment. Being sedentary is a shortcut to poor immune function largely due to lymph function. The Lymphatic System The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes that spans the entire body. It is critical for health and for the immune system to function properly. Your Pet’s Immune System Both blood and lymphatic systems share many functional, structural, and anatomical similarities, but lymphatics are unique. Unlike the blood system, which is a closed loop with the heart actively pumping blood to oxygenate our tissues, lymphatics are open-ended. Movement of lymph is governed by rhythmic daily muscle movements propelling the fluid along network. The lymph fluid, called chyle, which contains immune cells, permeates every nook of the body. Movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels transports immune cells around the body, where they patrol all the remote corners of the body, keeping a lookout for anything untoward. The lymphatics also bring immune cells together in hubs of immune activity called lymph nodes. If the flow of lymph stops or becomes impaired, this vital immune surveillance and defence function can become compromised. And being sedentary sadly results in compromised lymph function. Therefore, movement for the aging dog is still important to support vital immune function. Within reason. We can’t hide from the fact that degenerative musculoskeletal issues are common in the aging dog, so care must be taken. Can Nutrition Support Joint Health What Is Pain and How to Look For It Obesity and Musculoskeletal Health in Dogs Natural Arthritis Guide and Herbs to Help Dogs You’ll be forgiven for thinking that lifestage nutrition is a bit of gimmick, but there’s no denying that the demands placed upon the body and brain are different across different life stages. For that reason, nutritional adjustment may be appropriate, depending on individual circumstances, lifestyle and health needs. If you would like further support for your aging or senior pet, then please check out our services to see if we may be able to help. 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
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we often deal with dogs who have either a congenital or acquired liver shunt. There is often some misunderstanding around liver shunts because in medicine there are procedures where a “shunt” is inserted into the brain to drain excess spinal fluid – but a liver shunt is a little different, so let’s take a look at what they are and considerations to make in any treatment plan. Liver Function The liver processes blood and the substances found within it. In a healthy animal, blood draining from the intestines passes immediately through the liver for nutrients to processed and for toxic compounds to be removed. The blood then re-enters main circulation. But in an animal with a portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), a significant volume of blood bypasses the liver, enters main circulation and heads to the heart where it can be pumped around the body. As the blood being pumped around the body is technically unfiltered, toxic compounds can build up. In addition, the liver is unable to break down nutrients or regulate the body’s energy balance. In most cases, a liver shunt is caused by a birth defect. This is known as a congenital portosystemic shunt. But acquired shunts can also occur – this is usually linked to primary liver disease, or a disease involving the normal blood vessels into the liver. Symptoms of a Liver Shunt: Stunted growth Poor muscle development Abnormal neurological behaviour – disorientation, staring into space, circling or head pressing, seizures Drinking/urinating too much Vomiting Diarrhoea Lethargy In addition, if a shunt is secondary to liver disease, then you would also note additional symptoms associated with poor liver function including: Loss of appetite Jaundice Fluid retention Liver Guard Congenital Liver Shunts In this instance, your puppy will be born with their shunt. At present there are 33 breeds that are significantly more likely to have a liver shunt than the general population. They include: Havanese Yorkshire Terrier Maltese Pug Miniature Schnauzer Standard Schnauzer Shih Tzu Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Irish Wolfhound Old English Sheepdog Of interest however, is that in Yorkshire Terriers, the incidence of shunts has increased more than 11 times in the past two decades. In addition, when mating two surgically corrected Yorkshire Terriers, they produce normal offspring. This poses questions around simple autosomal recessive inheritance. Findings Here When the foetus is developing, they will have a large shunt known as the ductus venosus; this carries blood quickly through the foetal liver to the heart. A congenital shunt develops if the ductus venosus fails to collapse at birth and remains intact and open after the foetus no longer needs it, or if a blood vessel outside of the liver develops abnormally and subsequently remains open after the ductus venosus closes. Small breeds tend to suffer extrahepatic liver shunts, which are just one abnormal blood vessel outside of the liver. These are most amenable to surgical correction. A single shunt located inside of the liver is more common in larger breeds and known as intrahepatic – these are still best treated with surgery, but the procedure is more challenging. Surgery for liver shunts focuses on blocking the blood flow through the abnormal vessels so that more of it travels through the liver. Dogs with acquired shunts on the other hand, tend to have multiple abnormal vessels and are often poor candidates for surgery due to their underlying health issues. Acquired Liver Shunts In cases of liver disease, blood flow can become compromised leading to what is known as portal hypertension – or simply, high blood pressure. Like water, blood likes to take the path of least resistance and so APSS (acquired portosystemic shunts) are formed. Clinical parameters would indicate underlying hepatic concerns. In both cases of congenital and acquired, reduced blood flow to the liver also results in atrophy which subsequently affects function. But the liver is a rather unique organ, it is the only one that can regenerate, therefore appropriate intervention and management is essential. Liver Guard Considerations To Make The most common treatment regime (in addition to surgery if appropriate) usually includes a diet change and ensuring intestinal health. The conventional concern with many liver issues is protein intake. When protein is broken down in the body, left behind is ammonia. The liver plays a key role in metabolising ammonia ready for it to be excreted by the kidneys into urine, but when blood flow bypasses the liver, ammonia builds up in the blood and enters systemic circulation – this is what leads to many neurological issues alongside poor liver function. Traditionally, dietary management has included protein restriction to reduce ammonia absorption from the colon, but more recently it is considered that colonic absorption is only significant in those fed poor-quality diets, that contain poorly digestible protein. In addition, it has been established that those with chronic liver disease may develop muscle wasting from being in a long-term catabolic state – with low protein diets leading to increased muscle protein catabolism. Findings Here Therefore we would advocate a fresh-food diet, with highly digestible protein sources. The general school of thought is 2g of protein per kg of body weight. Findings Here Antibiotics are often prescribed in an attempt to reduce intestinal bacterial overgrowth, but there are other considerations to make with regards to intestinal health. Motility – if food sits too long in any one place, problems can start to occur. Stress is one of the key factors which impair motility, so consider your dog’s exposure to any stressful stimuli. In addition, fibre can aid intestinal transit. 5 Reason’s Why Fibre is Your Dog’s Best Friend There are additional factors that can skew the microbial population in your dog’s gut too. What Can Cause Gut Dysbiosis What Can Help Gut Dysbiosis Whilst the liver is unable to effectively metabolise and detoxify, it is important to support this process as much as possible, starting with not overloading it in the first place. Opt for filtered water Feed
Vomiting is one of the most common reasons owners take their dog to the vet. Here at My Pet Nutritionist it is a common symptom too, but it is often misperceived for regurgitation. There are a number of reasons for both, and they are very different mechanisms. So, let’s first establish the difference between vomiting and regurgitation, and focus specifically on reasons why your dog may be regurgitating. What’s the difference between vomiting and regurgitating? Vomiting is an active process, where the dog is forcefully ejecting the contents of their stomach or intestines. It is often preceded by sound. Food is usually at least partially digested, or it may be bile that comes up. In vomiting you will notice signs of nausea, like drooling or lip licking. Regurgitation is more passive and usually happens while a dog is eating or shortly afterward. There is usually no sound beforehand. Regurgitation is often just water or undigested food. Regurgitation can be common if a dog eats something that is too large – think large bones or chews. Some dogs will attempt to re-ingest it as soon as they’ve regurgitated it. But there are also some other reasons for regurgitation. 1) Stress Stress is a response in the body –and it is similar across humans and dogs. When exposed to a stressful trigger, the sympathetic nervous system fires up. During this process, resources are directed away from the digestive system and so digestive function is compromised. This can lead to the development of acid reflux which is one of the more common reasons for regurgitation. Stress has also been seen to affect oesophageal sensitivity. During stress, corticotropin releasing hormone plays a key role. This hormone is regularly implicated in hypersensitivity (which is why conditions like IBS are more common in those who are anxious or stressed). But what it means is that the oesophagus is more sensitive to mechanical distension, chemical stimuli and more, which may lead to regurgitation. 2) Reduced Mucosal Integrity In the same strand, mucosal integrity also influences oesophageal hypersensitivity. Just like we have a barrier in the skin and gut, we also have an oesophageal one. It too is made up of tight junctions and has its own plethora of defence mechanisms, including a mucosal barrier. But the presence of acid, in cases of acid reflux can injure the oesophageal epithelium and so, in turn, it damages the mucosal barrier, along with the tight junction formation. During attempts to repair, the inflammatory response is called to action, and animal studies into oesophageal damage have suggested it is a double-edged sword. This inflammatory response has been seen to lower oesophageal pressure through its action on smooth muscle which, not only allows for further reflux of acid,but also then delays acid clearance. Findings Here. The take home here is to restore mucosal integrity as soon as possible and modulate inflammation with ingredients such as l-glutamine, slipper elm, deglycerised and marshmallow root. Gut Guardian 3) Good Stress You may notice that your dog is more likely to regurgitate if they eat too soon after exercise. There is such a thing as good stress, but the response in the body will be the same. When your dog is running, chasing and playing, they are asking their body to move away from homeostasis. Their body will need compounds at a higher rate than what they are needed at rest. It therefore places their body under stress and so, resources are redirected. Digestion is no longer a required function and energy conversion is more important. The sympathetic nervous system is the functional stress response, the parasympathetic nervous system is the commande rthat walks into a room and states, “as you were!” But this command can take time to be heard, and so, if your dog eats too soon after exercise, the entirety of the parasympathetic nervous system hasn’t yet got the message. Without a fully functioning digestive system,it propels the food back out again. Always be mindful of when you choose to offer meals to your dog. 4) The Food Being Fed Regurgitation immediately after eating is in fact relatively common in dogs – but this doesn’t mean its normal. From experience, we often link it to the type of food being fed, as often in many cases, when the food is changed,the regurgitation stops. This can be for a number of reasons,but in short, the body isn’t liking what is going in. The enteric nervous system (ENS) is a subset of the autonomous nervous system and can function independently of the central nervous system. The enteric nervous system innervates the entirety of the digestive system and ENS neurons become hyperexcitable in the presence of toxins, bacteria, inflammatory and immune mediators. Animal studies have demonstrated hyperexcitability of ENS neurons after sensitization withmilk ingestion, leading to mast cell degranulation and histamine release. What caused the sensitisation in this study isn’t relevant, the note to make is that hyperexcitability can occur after sensitization, leading to aberrant enteric function. And so, it pays to consider an inflammatory/immune component in cases of chronic regurgitation. An elimination diet may be useful in this case. Check out our blog for more information. Here Equally, an easily digestible recipe such as white fish, can help, if fish is well tolerated. Low Fat Fish Of interest here is the crosstalk between the microbiome and the enteric nervous system. ENS nerves are thought to detect microbial products because germ-free animals exhibit significantly altered enteric function. A healthy microbiome is therefore crucial for the correct digestive messages to get where they need to go. To support your dog’s microbiome, check out our blog: Here 5) Structure There are cases where the structure of the oesophagus can result in frequent regurgitation. This can be a developmental abnormality or blockage. A thorough exam would be necessary to establish the severity of any structural issue. Summary In many acute cases of regurgitation, acid reflux often comes intoplay. If you would like to learn more then check out
One of the most popular herbicides in the world, it was first patented by Monsanto in 1974. Since then, glyphosate tolerant genetically modified crops were commercialised, paving the way for its increasing use, year on year. Here at My Pet Nutritionist, this makes our stomachs churn a little, and we’ll let you know why. What is Glyphosate? Glyphosate is a systemic, broad-spectrum herbicide. This means that it moves throughout the plant, and kills any plant not genetically modified to resist it. Glyphosate is a strong chelating agent; it creates complexes that immobilise the mineral micronutrients of the soil (calcium, iron,magnesium, manganese, nickel, zinc) making them unavailable to plants. It also acts as a powerful antibiotic – killing all bacteria in the soil. Due to its antibacterial properties, glyphosate has been reported to affect the gut microbiota of animals, killing the beneficial bacteria and leaving the pathogenic ones behind. This has been linked to adverse effects in farm animals, which feed on glyphosate-treated soya and corn feed. For more information on the importance of a diverse microbiome, checkout our blogs: Here Here Here Glyphosate and Health The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organisation (WHO), classified glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen”, following a thorough analysis performed by 17 independent world leading experts from 11 countries using only publicly available studies. The conclusion on experimental animals was based on two experiments where mice had developed malignant tumours as a result of exposure to glyphosate alone. Findings Here. Glyphosate and Hormone Glyphosate alone and glyphosate-based products alter the hormone metabolism in different mammalian cell lines and have been reported to reduce the conversion of androgens to oestrogens (resulting in production of more male than female hormones). In experimental studies with mice, glyphosate-based products also alter the reproductive hormone metabolism and reduce fertility. Findings Here. Glyphosate, Growth and Development Experimental animals exposed to glyphosate have given birth to foetuses with increased heart malformations and abnormalities, absent kidneys, distorted ribs, lungs and skeleton, as well as embryonic deaths. Findings Here. Glyphosate and the Nervous System Glyphosate and glyphosate-based products have been seen to affect the growth and development of nerve cells also. Glyphosate has been reported to disrupt the function of brain nerve signalling, brain cell organelles (mitochondria) and cause neuronal cell death. Findings Here. Whilst these all offer food for thought; we’re going to focus on cancer research a little further. When concluding that it is a probable human carcinogen,researchers took into consideration the strong evidence of genotoxicity (DNA damage) and oxidative stress (tissue/cell damage) in humans and laboratory animals following exposure to glyphosate-pesticides and its metabolites. As we know, the first step to cells becoming cancerous is unusual DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) structure. DNA contains the instructions that ours and our dog’s cells need to develop, live, and reproduce. These instructions are passed down from parents to their offspring. Every cell must undergo growth, and then it must die. Cancer cells on the other hand receive aberrant instructions. Of interest here is the concept that these instructions are passed down from parents to their offspring, and in relation to glyphosate, it has been established as genotoxic. Here, you not only have to consider your dog’s exposure to the product, but that the damage could be seen in future generations, and equally, your dog could be experiencing health issues because of their parent’s exposure. This is of particular concern when a study highlighted glyphosate has been found in several commercial cat and dog foods on the market. Findings Here. As it is sprayed on many crops, and most commercial foods are crop based, this is of little surprise. Glyphosate has been implicated in the disruption of proteins crucial to detoxification pathways; it affects the host’s ability to remove other environmental chemicals, causing them to be more nephrotoxic than they would otherwise be. This is why, many reviews are now linking glyphosate to kidney disease of unknown origin and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Findings Here. Again, this is a worry if these modifications can be passed from generation to generation. Are dogs becoming less efficient at removing environmental chemicals, in a world where we have never had more? We don’t know the answer to that question, but its certainly worth considering. If you would like to learn more about detoxification pathways and toxins found in the home, check out our blogs: Here Here Here How much are us and our pets actually exposed to? Many laboratory tests have demonstrated the possible absorption of glyphosate in the gastro-intestinal tract of humans and mammals, as well as absorption through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact. In 2012 the German magazine Oko-Test found traces of glyphosate in wheat flour, oats, and bread in 14 samples out of 20 analysed. In 2014 the Moms Across America group and the SustainablePulse information website reported the presence of glyphosate in human milk in 3 out of 10 samples. In 2015, the National University of La Plata in Argentinadetected traces of glyphosate in 85% of the sample tampons purchased in supermarkets and all analysed samples of medical gauze and cotton. In 2016, research conducted by Boston University and AbraxisLLC revealed the herbicide’s presence in 62% of conventional honeys and in 45% of organic honeys. In 2016, another two studies conducted by the Munich Institute of the Environment and the Consumer Magazine 60 Millions de Consommateurs, found traces of glyphosate in 14 beers, among the best known in Germany (Beck’s, Paulaner, Warsteiner, etc.) and in panty liners from the feminine hygiene company Organyc. In Italy, 100 food products based on flour and 26 samples of drinking water were analysed by the magazine Test-Salvagente, they found traces of glyphosate in half of the food and in two samples of water. Findings Here. The fact that it finds its way into so many different products really shines a light on how we need to pay attention to everything we are exposed to or expose our pets to – including their
Did you know that body wasting is found in 65-90% of patients with advanced liver disease? These patients often develop micronutrient deficiencies which ultimately results in malnutrition. Being a more common disease than we’d like to see here at My Pet Nutritionist, it is clear that there are nutritional implications in any treatment plan. For that reason, we thought we’d explore liver disease in a little more detail, with specific reference to food choices. What is Liver Disease? Liver disease can present in many different ways – it can range from chronic hepatitis, acute liver failure, portosystemic shunts to hepatic encephalopathy. For more information on these specific manifestations, check out our blog here. Here you will also find any signs and symptoms to look out for. But before we get into what happens when it goes wrong, let’s look at what a healthy liver does. The major functions of the liver include: Bile production: Bile helps the small intestine breakdown and absorb fats, cholesterol, and those fat soluble vitamins. Bile consists of bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, electrolytes, and water. Absorbing and metabolising bilirubin: Bilirubin is formed by the breakdown of haemoglobin. The iron released from haemoglobin is stored in the liver or bone marrow and used to make the next generation of blood cells. Supporting blood clots: Vitamin K is necessary for the creation of coagulants that help clot the blood. Bile is essential for vitamin K absorption and is created in the liver. If the liver does not produce enough bile, clotting factors cannot be produced. Fat metabolisation: Bile breaks down fats which makes them easier to digest. Metabolising carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are stored in the liver, where they are broken down into glucose and siphoned into the bloodstream to maintain normal glucose levels. They are stored as glycogen and released whenever energy is needed. Vitamin and mineral storage: The liver stores vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12. The liver stores iron from haemoglobin in the form of ferritin, ready to make new red blood cells.The liver also stores and releases copper (which is why copper toxicity in dogs is associated with liver failure). Filters the blood: The liver filters and removes compounds from the body, including hormones and compounds from outside the body, like medications. For more information on detox, check out our blog here. Immunological function: The liver is part of the mononuclear phagocyte system. It contains high numbers of Kupffer cells that are involved in immune activity. These cells destroy any disease-causing agents that might enter the liver through the gut. Production of albumin: Albumin is a protein found in the blood. It transports fatty acids and steroid hormones to help maintain pressure and prevent the leaking of blood vessels. It is the higher circulating albumin found in dogs that suggests they possess an increased fat oxidation capacity, in comparison to humans. Synthesis of angiotensinogen: This hormone raises blood pressure by narrowing the blood vessels when alerted by production of an enzyme called renin in the kidneys. But perhaps the most interesting function of the liver, is its ability to regenerate. In mice, if two thirds of their liver is removed, the remaining tissue can regrow to its original size within 5-7 days! In humans, this process takes slightly longer, but it can still occur. In dogs, the mechanism is thought to occur similarly to that in the mouse., but maximum response is seen after three days, as opposed to 24-hour peak in rat regeneration. Findings here Liver Guard This regeneration is helped by a number of compounds, including growth factors and cytokines like: hepatocyte growth factor insulin transforming growth factor-alpha epidermal growth factor interleukin-6 norepinephrine Micronutrients to Support Liver Health Almost all chronic liver diseases are under the background of elevated oxidative stress. Great sources ofessential antioxidants are foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and trace element selenium. Plant foods also contain compounds that have antioxidant activity, such as ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, coenzyme Q10, curcumin, ellagic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, lipoic acid,lycopene, N-acetyl cysteine, quercetin, and resveratrol. Blueberries This versatile berry contains anthocyanins, an antioxidant, protecting the liver from oxidative stress. Studies have found that in the livers of rats, such protective compounds found in fruits like blueberries slowed the development of scar tissue, and may be useful in the prevention of hepatic fibrosis. CruciferousVegetables (Brussel sprouts, broccoli) Not only does this family of vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits, they also have the added ability of increasing the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes and improving overall liver function by decreasing oxidative stress. Findings here Nuts Nuts, which are high in healthy fats and Vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant) as well as other phytochemicals, have shown potential for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by reducing inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver. Fatty fish (mackerel, tuna, salmon, trout) Consuming fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly can modulate inflammation and enzyme levels. Findings here A review of plant-based foods for liver health indicated the following as beneficial: broccoli carrots collard greens kale sweet potato cabbage banana papaya pomegranate watermelon Findings here Patients with liver disease are advised to avoid nightshade plants like tomatoes and eggplant as they can become hepatotoxic. Macronutrients to Support Liver Health The liver plays a crucial role in the metabolism of proteins along with carbohydrates and fats. It carries out four main functions in protein metabolism. The first is the formation of blood proteins. These blood proteins include clotting factors, carrier and transport proteins, hormones, apolipoproteins, and other proteins involved in homeostasis and the maintenance of pressure, such as albumin. The liver is also involved in amino acid interconversion. Amino acids are divided into two groups, essentials—those that the body is unable to produce,which must be obtained from the diet and non-essentials, those that the body can synthesise. The liver is able to alter the structure of amino acids and transfer amino radicals to a keto acid to produce the amino acids needed for the body. This process is critical in many body functions, especially gluconeogenesis. The third function is amino acid deamination, or breakdown, the by-products
Everyday, ours and our pet’s bodies are exposed to toxins. They are produced internally in the body, like lactic acid and consist of waste products from gut microbes, hormones, and neurotransmitters. But the largest threat is possibly those external toxins, like air pollution, chemicals from cleaning products and volatile organic compounds from the plug-in air diffuser in your lounge. Here at My Pet Nutritionists, when considering your pet’s well-being, detoxification is largely looked at as part of the health picture. It is thought that in the 25 years between 1970 and 1995, the volume of synthetic organic chemicals produced tripled from about 50 million tonnes to approximately 150 million tons, and this number has grown year on year since. Findings here These toxins can disrupt essential biological structures in the body. A toxin is defined as any substance that must be neutralised and eliminated to avoid its promotion of ill-health if left to accumulate. What surprises most people is that the body produces waste products every second of every day in the form of used hormones, neurotransmitters, or oxidised lipids. For this reason, even if we manage ours and our pet’s environments well, we still need to support our detoxification system, simply to eliminate the exhaust fumes of daily life. So, what is 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. We can think of it like a waterfall, water will always find a way down. In a healthy system, toxins will be able to find a way out. Initially, the body will attempt to detoxify at source. These locations include the intestinal mucosa, the respiratory mucosa, the microbiome,and the skin epidermis. Whilst these also provide a physical barrier to prevent toxin penetration, they also express a range of enzymes which are essential in sweeping toxins away. Detoxification falls into three phases. The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our dog’s toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally. Liver Guard Phase I PhaseI is primarily undertaken by a superfamily of enzymes and they are predominantly concentrated in the liver (but are found in the oral and nasal cavity). t also includes enzymes like MAOs or monoamine oxidases to deal with neurotransmitters (those chemical messengers involved in mood and behaviour ) and PON1 or paraoxonase 1 dealing with pesticides and oxidised lipids. The names aren’t important, but the point is that at this stage the body needs to be efficiently producing these enzymes to metabolise the toxins. So, it stands to reason that this stage is particularly nutrient demanding and sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential. This phase also generates high numbers of reactive oxygen species, or ROS leading to oxidative stress (there is also evidence of poor antioxidant capacity in obesity). These enzymes are also highly polymorphic – which means they are prone to altered gene expression. If you would like to know how gene expression can alter detoxification in the cat, then check out our blog here. But, whether the expression starts to cause problems can often depend on the nature and exposure to toxins. Once toxins have been passed through phase I, they are not finished with. Intermediate metabolites are produced, and they sit in the body. t’s almost like putting your rubbish in the outside bin, but missing collection day. The rubbish remains. Welcome to phase II Within phase II there are number of pathways and they are all responsible for detoxifying different compounds. Methylation The process of methylation deals with heavy metals, plastics, medications, mould,histamine, hormones, and neurotransmitters. This process requires nutrients like folate, vitamin B6, zinc and magnesium. Many environmental factors can limit methylation capacity including low dietary intake of co-factors, use of proton pump inhibitor medication, stress, use of anti-depressant medication, gut dysbiosis, high exposure to toxins and a high histamine diet. This can then become more of an issue in those with genetic SNPs in the genes that code for the enzymes involved. Poor methylation can also impair bile synthesis, which then impacts on cholesterol maintenance and glucose metabolism. Sulphation The process of sulphation deals with heavy metals, heavy smoke, hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, phenols, and medications including antibiotics. Efficient sulphation requires an adequate supply of sulphur (included in cruciferous vegetables for example), but also iron, molybdenum and vitamin B12. Deficiency in any of these can result in an accumulation of sulphites and then an increased sensitivity to sulphite containing foods or supplements (MSM for example). Since this pathway modulates catecholamine levels, poor function can result in higher circulating levels too. Glutathione conjugation This deals with heavy metals, plastics, mycotoxins, mould, heavy smoke, pesticides, and medications like steroids. Glutathione is a master antioxidant so is also important in neutralising the reactive oxygen species produced in phase I. Steady supply of the enzymes in this pathway relies on vitamin B2. But what is also of interest is that the more the glutathione pathway becomes overloaded with long-term paracetamol use, the more depleted glutathione stores become, which places increased pressures on other Phase II pathways and Phase I processes. Low selenium also contributes to poorer enzyme function here. Glucuronidation Glucuronidation is involved in managing heavy metals, sex hormones, neurotransmitters, plastics, mould, alcohol, smoke, medications including paracetamol,non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, warfarin and immunosuppressants. Important nutrients in this process include vitamin B3, B6 and iron. The glucuronidation pathway is particularly affected by digestive health. Anything that promotes gut dysbiosis, like antibiotics, high sugar intake or the use of certain medications which later digestive function can result in toxins being recirculated throughout the body. This then results in increased oxidative stress, which has its own ramifications throughout the body. Acetylation Acetylation supports the detoxification of smoke, halides, tyramine, caffeine, neurotransmitters, histamine, and
