How Nutrition Affects the Endocrine System

We know that ‘You are what you eat’, exemplified by the endocrine system being responsible for regulating appetite, nutrient absorption, nutrient storage and usage.

The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain glucose homeostasis, which is key to health as every cell in our body uses glucose to make ATP – the energy currency of all cells.

Science concurs that ‘inadequate’ nutrition can disrupt the normal development and function of the endocrine organs. This involves dangerous modulations or fluctuations in the production and secretion of essential hormones.

Along with malnutrition the endocrine system can also be damaged by other environmental factors. These are known as Endocrine disrupting chemicals or EDC’s.

The long-term effect of over medication and vaccination can impact negatively on the endocrine system. As can manmade synthetic chemicals ubiquitous to modern living.

These include the volatile organic compounds insidiously emitted by furnishings packed with flame retardant chemicals, cookware, plastic containers, household cleaning products, herbicides - generically known as Organophosphates.

When working in harmony and robust health, the endocrine system is a system of ductless glands, each of which secretes hormones into the bloodstream to chemically regulate certain functions in the body.

Travelling through the body in the bloodstream, their effects vary widely, but all are essential for survival and maintaining balance or homeostasis in the body.

The canine endocrine glands are essentially identical to a human’s both in structure and function. They include the hypothalamus gland, which secretes hormones to stimulate the pituitary gland that releases several hormones essential for life, including: growth and metabolism control (how your body transforms and manages the energy from the food you eat).

The thyroid gland and parathyroid glands also secrete hormones to help with metabolic control and the synthesis of food into energy, whilst the latter specifically controls calcium homeostasis. The pancreas is a dual gland that secretes vital hormones including insulin for glucose homeostasis.

The adrenal glands situated in the kidneys regulate the metabolism, the immune system, blood pressure, response to stress (fight or flight). Ovaries and testes similarly secrete hormones needed not just for reproduction, but for overall health.

Interestingly, the brain almost never uses any other source of fuel apart from glucose. However, too much glucose damages cells and changes their function.

The main tissues responsible for the delicate glucose balancing act are: the liver, fat, muscle, brain and the pancreas. Glucose is mainly stored as glycogen in the liver and in muscles. It is stored as fat in fat cells. When energy is needed glycogen, fat and protein (last) are broken down.

The hormone glucagon acts on the liver to stimulate glucose production and its release, and on fat cells to create fat breakdown. As glucagon rises, glucose falls. Interestingly, adrenaline, cortisol, insulin and growth hormones also make blood glucose rise.

With so many component parts working in synergy, it’s no surprise that if any part becomes compromised, the effects can be dramatic, leading to the endocrine system’s mal-function.

Disturbing the body’s balance or homeostasis, an impaired metabolic function contributes to common diseases including diabetes, pancreatitis, hypo or hyperthyroidism and Cushings.

Back in 2016, pet insurer, Animal Friends, revealed that diabetes had risen by 900% since 2011. Linked to the surge in obesity in dogs and to other lifestyle choices, not least ultra-processed foods.

Opting for a fresh, functional and wholefood diet offers natural support for the endocrine system, not least by minimising sugar intake.

Allowing the endocrine system to absorb and process a balance of species appropriate ingredients. In contrast to overly processed choices like kibble, often comprising up to 70% complex carbohydrates.

Dogs can be exposed to EDC ’s in both indoor and outdoor domestic environments either through ingestion, inhalation or transdermal absorption.

Their exposure has been associated with several health disorders comparable to those described in humans, including thyroid and reproductive disorders, diabetes, heart and kidney diseases, and various types of cancer.

Estimated to be 3.5 times more toxic than outdoors, the indoor environment can easily be balanced by opting for vintage furniture, rugs and throws, plus choosing plant or probiotic based household cleaning products.

And by avoiding any scented candles or chemical air fresheners, opting for natural herbal alternatives.

Anna Webb – as a Canine Nutrition and Behaviour expert, Anna combines her psychology degree, with study at the College of Integrated Veterinary Therapies (CIVT) and over 20 years of experience. Host of the award-nominated A DOG’S LIFE podcast, she lives in London and is owned by Prudence, a Miniature Bull Terrier, and Mr Binks, a re-homed English Toy Terrier.