Nutritional factors related to glucose and lipid modulation in diabetic dogs: literature review

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder that results in hyperglycemia by absolute or relative insulin deficiency, sometimes leading to fatal complications. The successful treatment of diabetic dogs depends on nutritional management and insulin applications. Studies evaluating the nutrition of diabetic dogs focused on fiber as the main factor in glycemic control; however, new research describes the role of starch as key in postprandial glycemic fluctuation, also attributing a central role for body condition scores and feed management in the adequate glycemic control of diabetic dogs. The aim of this paper is to review nutritional aspects to better control diabetes in dogs.

Keywords

• Nutrition
• Canine
• Diabetes mellitus
• Starch
• Fiber