Insulin resistance is a condition in which a normal amount of insulin causes an inadequate decrease in blood glucose levels. Over a period of time the body ends up producing more insulin which puts pressure on the liver, pancreas and kidneys. This results in various metabolic abnormalities. In simple terms, insulin resistance is when the cells in the muscle, fat and liver resist the signal sent from “insulin” (a hormone made and released by the pancreas) to grab glucose from the bloodstream and convert it.

While genetics play a role toward insulin resistance in dogs, it is also caused and escalated by excess body weight, lack of exercise, infection and poor diet. While we can’t change genetics, we can contribute by making sure that we are offering the best possible diet for our dogs which ensures less metabolic stress on their liver and kidneys, and provides maximum support against insulin resistance.

Looking at your dog’s diet from a different perspective is key to understanding the different elements that contribute to providing a balanced nutritious diet. Ingredients that make up kibble are dehydrated, hydrolyzed and cooked at high temperatures, most nutrients are lost during the processes and synthetic nutrients are then added to replace what has been lost. Different types of acrylamide (a chemical formed in some foods during high-temperature cooking) and other carcinogens are created in this process. Although ratios between brands differ, what you are left with is a food that is high in sugar and carbohydrates, and low in natural micronutrients. This can cause increased strain on the pancreas and contribute to the risk factors associated with insulin resistance. Carbohydrates are responsible for the greatest changes in postprandial (after-eating) blood sugar levels.  

Many dogs that suffer from insulin resistance and need to manage weight would ultimately be put on a controlled diet of kibble, but limiting their daily intake would ultimately limit their intake of essential macro and micronutrients. A bit of a catch-22. 

How would switching to a raw diet help to improve the regulation and control of insulin resistance and help ensure less metabolic stress on the liver and kidneys?

As with humans, dogs absorb nutrients better from whole foods rather than synthetic vitamins. Fresher and more bioavailable proteins in a raw diet are more effective as the liver doesn’t have to work as hard. The protein in kibble can be cross-linked and not very easily digested. Feeding a raw diet will prevent glucose inconstancy associated with carbohydrate-rich, dry kibble-based diets and ensure the intake of all the nutrients needed to maintain and support the natural functioning of the liver and kidneys. It is also the solution to proper weight management, metabolism support and alleviation of chronic inflammatory conditions. The raw diet contains many nutrients that are needed to support low glucose levels and ultimately provide support in managing insulin resistance.

The solution lies in the variety on offer. There’s far more opportunity to get the right nutrients needed when feeding a variety of foods.