It still contained a large amount of meat, and this prevented taurine deficiencies from occurring. However, metal was needed for the military, and by the time the war ended, 85% of pet food was dry kibble. Taurine has a profound effect on the development and course of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.īefore WWII, more than 90% of commercial pet food came in cans, and contained mostly if not only meat. It is used to treat hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver) in cats as well as people and it may be helpful in kidney disease. It also helps regulate blood pressure, and is an extremely important cellular protector. More specifically, it has been shown to improve periodontal disease in humans. Taurine acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It is essential for immune system function. Taurine is utilized in every area of the brain, as well as the retina of the eyes. It is crucial for muscles, especially the heart muscle. Taurine production naturally decreases with age. (Notable exceptions are cats and weasels–including ferrets–who must consume taurine in their diet.) The first step involves the sulfur-containing essential amino acid methionine, which is used to make another amino acid, cysteine (also spelled “cystine”). Most mammals produce their own taurine in the pancreas from amino acid precursors. It is an essential component of bile acids, which are produced in the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and used to break down fats from food. It is abundant in the brain, the eye (especially the retina), muscle tissue, and many organs. Taurine is an amino acid produced in the liver and almost exclusively found in meat. Is this warning justified, based on science? Let’s take a look. In July 2018, the FDA released a warning about grain-free dog foods and their possible connection to the development of a serious heart disease in dogs. I am leaving this information up to provide background, a little science, and a glimpse into the perhaps-too-cozy relationship between the FDA, pet food companies, and veterinary schools. For a detailed history and analysis, see this article by Dr. ![]() I can say with confidence that grain-free foods DO NOT cause heart disease in dogs or cats. There was and is no scientific evidence to support FDA’s original theory, much less its naming of brands involved. NOTE: We now know that, as suspected all along, the purported link between grain-free pet foods and heart disease was entirely speculative. They will not be providing any further updates. FINAL UPDATE 12/27/22 The FDA has closed its investigation into this matter, saying there is “insufficient evidence” to establish a causal link between diet and DCM in dogs.
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