I am writing this blog today because I keep seeing a bashing of the use of supplementation of vitamins and minerals for your dog and I think it can become confusing and taken out of context. I wanted to create a whole picture of your dog’s health, the nutritional profile of food, common deficiencies, genetic mutations and malabsorption issues, that can affect this entire picture of health and where deficiencies can most certainly lead to concerns such as poor digestion, skin issues and disease. I am not an advocate of throw it in and see happens, but I am an advocate for addressing nutritional shortfalls in a diet that can most certainly lead to other issues if left unturned. So this blog is about balance, retrospect and highlighting that there isn’t always a generic approach to feeding. Food supplements are an umbrella for functional ingredients whether they are wholefoods, probiotics, fatty acids or vitamins and minerals. Food supplements are big business and rightly so as certain supplements can offer unique and effective support in some cases. Many of us may know about chamomile and valerian for calming, medicinal mushrooms for immune support, glucosamine and green lipped mussel for joint support and probiotics for digestive support and immunity. The list is endless when it comes to wonderful supplements we can use, some of great quality and efficacy and some not so great. Supplements are a wonderful addition to a healthy diet if used correctly and can support disease. Today I wanted to mention the use of vitamins and minerals and the controversy surrounding them. Gut Guardian Vitamins and minerals, unless from wholefood source, and believe me I’ve been in the industry long enough to know this process is far from the ‘wholefood’ dream you are sold, are derived from a number of sources that may be deemed synthetic. This seems to be a dirty word in the industry at the moment and without people knowing much about it, they tend to give it a bad wrap. Whilst I am not an advocate of overloading the body with additional vitamins and minerals, I do know how transformative they are when used in deficiency or disease and also in some cases, prevention. Foods nowadays don’t tend to provide the levels of nutrients expected and required from what we call a balanced diet. This is why it’s become such a huge industry in the health sector. Looking at pets, this trend closely follows. Due to agriculture, farming and depleted soils, food doesn’t always offer the nutritional profile we are led to believe (no one meat source or vegetables will contain the same amount of vitamins and minerals). Creating recipes is something I have to do on a weekly basis. I love working with the power and transformative therapy of food but I do on occasion like to ensure a little added vitamin and mineral are provided when I know it is something that often shows up as a deficiency due to depletion or that a particular dog will require additional support. For example, there are some beautiful zinc rich foods that you can include in your dog’s food on a daily basis if you create your own food at home. Whether this be from oysters, pumpkin seeds, venison and other red meats but as a formulator of foods, it’s easy to see how many meals, even over time, don’t quite hit the mark for the amounts required by dogs. Research has proven that zinc is one of the hardest minerals to absorb due to it being pipped to the post by so many other minerals and around 60-85% of zinc in the diet is not well utilised and absorbed. I hope I am painting a fair picture here, it’s simply about balance and looking at possible shortfalls. In my practise, I work with due diligence and a fine tooth comb. As a functional medicine practitioner, I work off a grid that maps all bodily systems over a 12 page questionnaire. We look at this sytem as well as history, presenting symptoms and possible diagnosis. I would call it a jigsaw puzzle that I piece together, trying to fill in any missing pieces. I can quite often tell if there is a deficiency but I do often work with tests to make sure the more dangerously stored nutrients such as A,D,E and K are tested. Unfortunately there is poor testing for minerals and whilst some might still offer blood tests, this often gives inaccurate readings unless your dog is at death’s door. There are a number of symptoms associated with deficiencies that when taking in the whole picture of health, can often tell you a lot about the pathophysiology and the health state of your dog. Fresh foods are incredibly important for a number of reasons. They provide enzymes, antioxidants, phytonutrients and fatty acids that are all essential for good health. Vitamins and minerals are only one factor and aspect when we look at ‘nourishment’. However, vitamins and minerals are incredibly important and involved in 1000’s of biochemical pathways in your dog’s body. Whilst food source is always preferable, we can see that there can be many reasons for dog’s not to absorb effectively. The most common deficiencies I see in clinic today are vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium and zinc. Obviously this is not exclusive, just my overall experience. Reasons for nutritional deficiencies Poor commercial food I don’t even know where to begin. Most foods are so void of any nutrition after they have been cooked to high temperatures, several times over, a premix of vitamins and minerals have to be added to provide any nutrition at all. This isn’t good basic nutrition and i am not a fan of any commercial food unless home cooked style or raw. To further the problem even more, many commercial pet food in the EU do not fulfil nutritional requirements. Only 6% (6/97) of wet and 38% (30/80) of dry food were fully compliant
Slim fat doggy. We are a globally obsessed about the fat content of foods, limiting fats when we need to lose weight, reducing certain fats in the belief that they are bad for us. The truth is, it’s about balance, it’s about less carbohydrates and more about the quality of proteins and looking at the beautiful essential fats that our dog’s require. Dogs utilise fats rather differently to us but the premise is the same, good fats equals good health. What are fats? The main macronutrients for health are proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Proteins and fats are responsible for many bodily functions. However, carbohydrates are a pure source of energy only and given that the dog only produces a minimal amount of amylase by the pancreas, their need for carbs is very low indeed (think beautiful vegetables here). Fats contain 2.5 times more energy than protein or dietary soluble carbohydrate. Around 90% of dietary fat is made up of triglycerides that are made up of fatty acids and a glycerol. In a fat molecule, the fatty acids are attached to each of the three carbons of the glycerol molecule with an ester bond through the oxygen atom. Here’s the boring bit about classifications of fatty acids…. ‘There are different classifications of fatty acids based on the length of their carbon chain, by the presence or absence of double bonds, the number of double bonds, the position of those bonds along the carbon chain, and by their melting point. Fats with no double bond at all are called saturated fats. Fats containing fatty acid chains with a double bond are called unsaturated fats.” Saturated fats contain the maximum level of hydrogen atoms possible and have no double bonds. Unsaturated fats, some of the hydrogen atoms are missing and have been replaced with double bonds between the carbon atoms. Monounsaturated fats, have one double bond. Polyunsaturated fats, have two or more double bonds. Polyunsaturated fats (PUFA’s) can be divided into two main groups: Omega-6 and Omega-3. The difference between the two is where the first of the double bond occurs. Omega 3 fatty acids, the first double bond occurs on the third carbon atom. In Omega 6 fatty acids, the first double bond is on the sixth carbon atom, counting from the methyl end. Omega-6 fatty acids include linoleic acid (LA), arachidonic acid (AA) and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Omega-3 fatty acids include alpha linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). What fats are essential for my dog’s health? Your dog requires both saturated and unsaturated fats but in particular balance. If that balance is out, particularly with the polyunsaturated fats, inflammation can occur and therefore, health issues arise. It is proven that dogs metabolise up to 95% of the fats they consume even though fat digestion is more far more complex than breaking down and assimilating protein and carbohydrates. Fats are a highly digestible and accessible form of energy for doggos and absolutely essential for health. Fats have many vital roles within the body; Energy production Development of all cells Neurological function Production of hormones Reproductive support Reduce inflammation Healthy skin and coat Nutrient absorption (such as vitamin A,D,E,K) Let’s talk about the most known and essential to health. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fats help to control hormones in the body such as regulating inflammatory response and blood pressure. Omega-6 fatty acids produce immune hormones that increase inflammation. Omega 6 fatty acids also help with blood clotting, brain function, and normal growth and development, helps stimulate skin and hair growth, maintain bone health, regulate metabolism, and maintain the reproductive system. A diet rich in Omega-6, can often cause skin issues and aggravate allergies, arthritis and any possible inflammatory disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are part of the phospholipid bilayer in the membrane of your dog’s cells. This means that they help regulate cellular communication in every area of the body. Omega-3 fatty acids form a large percentage of brain matter and are the foundation of pro and anti-inflammatory compounds. The balance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is an important part of a healthy immune system and balances out inflammation. A diet poor in Omega-3 can lead to chronic disease and autoimmune disease. Findings here A ratio of approximately 4-1 Omega-6 to Omega-3 is considered optimum for a dog’s diets. Many commercial dog foods contain ratios of 20-1 and sometimes ratios up to 50-1 (often seen in foods that contain high amounts of corn, naturally high in Omega-6 EFAs). This will result in an Omega-3 deficiency and a huge amount of inflammation. If you feed your dog a commercial dog food, it will more than likely be too high in pro-inflammatory Omega-6 fats. And if you feed your dog a raw meat diet that isn’t raised 100% on pasture, they too may be high in pro-inflammatory Omega-6 fats. Sources of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Omega-3 fatty acids, ALA (alpha linolenic acid) is often found in certain plants such as flax seed, sacha inchi seed, hemp seeds, chia seeds, avocado flesh only and oysters. Although ALA foods and supplements are not a substitute for fish or algae oil, due to the high Omega-6 content also, they can be an excellent additional supplement to include in the diet and added to certain meat sources. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are often found in high levels and good ratios in fish (these have the most anti-inflammatory effect). Found in salmon, tuna, trout, cod, krill, oysters, seabass, mackerel, sardines and anchovies. Non animal sources containing DHA and EPA are phytoplankton and marine algae oil. Although these are wonderful additions to your dog’s diet, they do not contain as much DHA and EPA as fish. They therefore don’t exert as much of an anti-inflammatory effect. Fish and fish oil Whole fish is a wonderful addition to the your dog’s diet but ensuring you don’t feed fish from the Pacific due to radiation, heavy metals and toxins, is essential. Feeding small fish such as krill,
What does the pancreas do? The pancreas is a small organ that sits behind the small intestine and the stomach. The pancreas digests food and regulates a cat and dog’s blood sugar. The pancreas produces and stores inactive enzymes that should only be activated when they enter the small intestine. Amylase for carbohydrate digestion, lipase for emulsifying and digesting fats and protease for digesting protein. Most of the pancreas is composed of cells that produce digestive enzymes. These cells are arranged in clusters that are connected to a series of small ducts. Pancreatic enzymes and juices flow from the cells and minor ducts into the main pancreatic duct, leading to the duodenum. The pancreas also contains small “islands” of hormone-producing cells called the islets of Langerhans, which secrete insulin and glucagon,along with somatostatin, hormones that mostly regulate blood sugar metabolism. What is pancreatitis Pancreatitis is the intense inflammation and swelling of the pancreas. It can either be an acute case, where animals can be at high risk (sometimes fatal) from a sudden onset of mass inflammation, where this tends to go away in a matter of a few days to a week (if the patient survives it). Chronic pancreatitis is a low grade inflammation over an extended period of time, leading to other possible health complications. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is the termed coined when the pancreas is no longer able to produce digestive enzymes, this can result from chronic pancreatitis. When the pancreas is damaged, further complications such as diabetes may appear over time, if not managed effectively. The prognosis depends on the severity of the disease. If left untreated, pancreatitis may lead to severe organ damage and even sudden death. Pancreatitis can cause a lot of pain and damage so if your pet seems uncomfortable, please do not ignore this, go to your veterinarian. Common symptoms but not exclusive are; Loss of appetite Sickness Diarrhoea Lethargy Dehydration Restlessness Arched back In milder forms, symptoms aren’t always obvious but may include loss of appetite, lethargy and diarrhoea. During an attack they may hunch the back, holding their bottom in the air with front legs and head low to the floor. Why it is so prevalent It is almost 50% more common in cats and dogs than in humans. A combination of environmental and genetic factors plays a role in the development of many cases of pancreatitis in pets. We see many acquired inflammatory issues related to IBS and IBD. You will find certain breeds such as cocker spaniels, dachshunds, miniature schnauzers and poodles are more susceptible to pancreatitis due to common genetic snips (SNP) in cats and dogs. It’s sometimes difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of pancreatitis but the following definitely play a part in the full picture of health. Scavenging; eating spoiled foods and incredibly high amounts of oxidised fat. Processed foods; eating processed foods, always high in sugars and sometimes grains are specifically high in carbohydrates.These carbohydrates put an unusual load on the pancreas. Cats and dogs are carnivores and naturally produce less amylase than any other digestive enzyme in the digestive system. Rancid fats; found in poor processed foods and poorly stored fats, leading to oxidation and inflammation and therefore, more than likely, leaky gut. IBS/IBD; low HCL levels in the gut, poor microbiome and constant immune triggers to environmental stimuli, food being the biggest offender, seems to be involved in a low grade chronic inflammation that may impact the pancreas and can bring about episodes or undiagnosed characteristics of pancreatitis. Grains and Lectins; often contained in dry food due to being cheap ingredients, creates inflammation and up regulates a protein called zonulin. Zonulin is responsible for (and a new diagnostic biomarker of) intestinal permeability (leaky gut). Leaky gut/gut integrity/intestinal permeability; leaky gut is when the integrity of the ‘one cell epithelial’ lining of the gut, becomes compromised by inappropriate foods, allergens, toxins and so forth. These slack and under functioning junctures allow chemicals, including food stuff into the blood stream, that should not be permitted. Leaky gut is linked to many disease states and closely linked to a lowered gut immunity in pancreatitis. Inflammation and imbalanced immunity; acute and chronic pancreatitis are dynamic inflammatory processes. Immune cells playa critical role in pancreatitis progression so looking towards that intricate cascade and supporting stress are key. Pharmaceuticals; in recent years, a large number of commonly prescribed medications have been linked to drug-induced pancreatitis pathogenesis. Although mechanisms are proposed, the exact cause of injury is not well understood. Obesity; obese animals are predisposed to a wide variety of diseases affecting many organ systems. Endocrine disorders commonly associated with obesity include canine pancreatitis. Cushing’s disease; is an endocrine disease and is commonly associated in pancreatitis. High blood levels of fats; triglycerides, have also been listed as a risk factor to pancreatitis in canines. Infections such as Babesia canis or Leishmania have shown to be present in some canine pancreatic patients. Genetics; genetic polymorphisms are found in certain breeds, the most common being SPINK1. Feeding a processed diet and in a toxic environment (vaccinations included), are more likely to express this gene, however this is far too common a disease for it to be purely genetic. Nutrition regime in pancreatitis There’s a lot of conflicting advice out there for pancreatitis but we have worked in this with humans and pets and the aetiology, pathogenesis and therefore dietary plans are rather similar in terms of approach and the following can be very helpful. Findings here We do not advocate any processed foods in this disease, only fresh, balanced, home cooked or raw food. There is often the suggestion that small meals spread over time is the best protocol in pancreatitis but this activates the pancreas, aggravating the inflammation further. When you start feeding fresh and balanced food over time, we find feeding twice a day, if your schedule permits it, feeding breakfast around 9am and then dinner at about 4pm, allowing a longer fast between dinner and the following breakfast. If your pet can tolerate being fed once a day, this might be
Here at MPN, we see a number of different cases whether it be itching/allergies, cancer, pancreatitis, IBS, IBD, liver and kidney disease and more. There’s a lot that goes into a consultation at MPN and its bespoke to your pet. No 2 clients are going to get the same plan. However, Bentonite clay is one of the ingredients can that be applied to a lot of these problems as an initial support. So, let’s get the dirt on clay! See what I did there? Does your dog dig for soil or want to eat cardboard? Does your cat try and eat litter? Then Bentonite could be just what they are looking for. Clay has been used with the following issues successfully and supported by research for both humans and animals: · Skin issues and Allergies · Digestive issues · Pancreatitis · Kidney and liver Support · Immune support · Parasites · General detoxification My favourite, which is Bentonite clay, can be interchangeably referred to as Montmorillonite clay and are both regarded as an absorbent aluminium phyllosilicate clay from the Smectites family. They are both named after regions they come from but in nature they have the same structure and have a much higher absorption capacity than other clays found in nature and on the market. It has been used and eaten since ancient times as humans believed in its therapeutic benefits. So let’s chat about Bentonite clay and its wondrous abilities. Skin issues and Allergies Due to many skin issues arising from immune reactions and toxicity, Bentonite can be calming and cooling both applied internally and externally. Internally Bentonite clay has proven to remove many different bacteria and fungi, including candida albicans, that can lead to skin issues. It can help support and excrete histamine from the bowel (histamine, we know can create intense itching and can accumulate whether your pet is experiencing allergies or not) and clay can help support liver and kidney function which is essential when detoxification is required due to the above. Applied externally (clay being wet and made into a paste) can help hotspots, wounds, calm itching and help fungal infections. This is our favourite on the market for EXTERNAL application only. Digestive issues Clay can positively affect digestion by boosting gut flora and ridding the digestive tract of any unwanted toxins. One trial states that bentonite may help nutrient absorption through increasing gut flora activity. We know gut flora (microbiota is essential for digestive health and good immunity). Bentonite clay has for a long time been considered as an effective treatment for diarrhoea, IBS and IBD. A trial in 1961, was shown that orally administered bentonite treated 97% of cases with different causative factors of diarrhoea. These being virus infection, food allergy, spastic colitis, mucous colitis, and food poisoning. This is pretty incredible don’t you think? Pancreatitis Clay can be a wonderful addition to a diet in EPI(Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency) especially when stools are upset and voluminous. In pancreatitis the pancreas becomes inflamed and enzyme production is less than desired. A trial with montmorillonite clay improved diarrhoea, enhanced intestinal mucosal integrity and the production of digestive enzymes in animals found here. Kidney and liver Support Bentonite can really help kidney and liver function. Two examples of how this may help. Bentonite is a natural phosphate binder which is a essential support in kidney disease. The excess phosphates and urea that the kidneys can’t clear can be greatly helped by Bentonite clay and will allow your pet to feel much better, improving appetite and energy level. SerumUrea is a by-product of kidney disease and poor function. Bentonite is shown to promote the diffusion of urea from blood vessel to intestine, and inhibits the absorption of urea in intestine here. Also Bentonite clay was able to restore liver function during exposure to toxins. And it didn’t affect their digestion of good nutrients here. Immune support We know Bentonite clay supports digestion and over 70% of the immune system resides in the digestive system. We know effective detoxification supports general immune function but we also know cancer and Bentonite have a direct correlation. Bentonite has been shown to inhibit the growth of human cancer cell lines U251 (central nervous system, glioblastoma). It seems that bentonite clay surfaces, controls the levels of metabolic growth components here. It has also been shown to demonstrate an anti-bacterial affect and the ability to pull pathogens out of the bowel here. Parasites Bentonite helps to clear intestinal parasites by dehydrating them, binding to them and then pulling them out of the body. Clay may also be used externally to suffocate and kill parasites on your pet. Dry powder can be put over your pet’s coat or pasting wet clay for a period of time. Just to warn you folks, this could get messy. General detoxification Clay has first and foremost always been considered as a detoxifier. It ultimately helps many of the above issues due to its detoxifying nature. Bentonite clay is negatively charged and so manages to attract and pull out toxins that by nature are positively charged. Clever isn’t it? If your pet has been on a processed diet, been exposed to allergens, pathogens, parasites, vaccinations or just plain fatigued and trying to eat soil, then Bentonite clay is a wonderful supplement to consider. Clay is basically ideal for most of the pet population if taken with caution. How to use Bentonite Clay Bentonite clay needs to be given on an empty stomach and not to be fed food, herbs or medications until at least 2 hours after consumption. Please make sure dose is considered for your pet’s size and health and check with a healthcare professional first if unsure. Also select a reputable and established supplemental clay as it can naturally contain heavy metals and quality can differ between brands. Caution must be taken when given and reassessed after a period of administration. Make sure clean and filtered water is available at all time. The very essence of
