Beta-glucuronidase
Beta-glucuronidase is an enzyme that your dog makes. It is also made by their gut bacteria. High levels can be due to an imbalance of healthy gut bacteria, which is also called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis means the bacteria in the gut is out of balance. Another problem with high levels of beta-glucuronidase is that it is known to free toxins that have already gone through detoxification. Meaning toxins can become free within the gut and lead to negative health effects. Consistently elevated levels of beta-glucuronidase have been associated with intestinal disease.
- Normal: 4 ug/g
- Borderline: 4 – 6 ug/g – Retest in 3-6 months
- High: >6 ug/g – Indicative of issues with gut bacteria or increased levels of toxins. Provide treatment and retest in 3 months
Treatment Options
Continue with current diet and lifestyle, retest in one year
- Elevated levels may be seen in dogs with an imbalance of healthy gut bacteria
- Consider a probiotic supplement with a variety of healthy gut bacteria, referred to as multi-stran, spore-forming probiotics or Saccaromyces boulardii
- Adding snacks higher in fibers to support healthy gut bacteria. These can include apricots (no pit), broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots red bell peppers, squash, and sweet potato (cooked).
- Reduce exposure to toxins.
- Consider a higher quality dog food. Research has noted a reduction of fecal beta-glucuronidase in dogs fed dry dog food, and believe it is due to an increase in healthy gut bacteria.
- Retest in 3 months.