Figure 2 shows a balanced endocrine index (upper graph) which is a good indicator of optimal cellular function. Bonus's endocrine index (lower graph) shows acceptable endocrine function, however, it is indicating a trend toward exhaustion of the thyroid and adrenal glands. This information helps us take steps to reverse this trend now, before problems occur. Providing your canine with the required nutrients at optimal levels and ratios enables his body systems to perform the infinitely complex cellular interactions necessary to support ideal functioning. Extensive tissue mineral research has led to significant advancements in the understanding of nutrient mineral interrelationships. This knowledge also can be applied to vitamin and endocrine interrelationships for a comprehensive approach to nutritional therapeutics. Examples of Performance Optimization for Different Needs The performance index identifies cellular stress response ability, or how well the dog can respond to and recover from stress. How you choose to optimize performance will depend on your dog's needs. Different working dogs have different performance needs based on their specialty. Figure 3 shows three examples of optimization strategies. For an explanation of the mineral relationships used to create the endocrine and performance index graphs, please refer to the "Unleashing Canine Performance" article at animalelite.com. 2 Endrocrine Index (balanced) LOW IDEAL HIGH Pituitary Thyroid Adrenal Endrocrine Index LOW IDEAL HIGH Pituitary Thyroid Adrenal 3 Performance Index (ideal) LOW IDEAL HIGH Endurance Speed Ideal Balance: This optimization strategy is suited to most dogs and is indicated by both endurance and speed indices being close to ideal on the "performance index." Performance Index (endurance) LOW IDEAL HIGH Endurance Speed Endurance Optimization: This optimization strategy is suited to a long-distance sled dog and is indicated by endurance being slightly dominant over speed. Performance Index (speed) LOW IDEAL HIGH Endurance Speed Speed Optimization: Optimized performance for a dog that performs in agility competitions is indicated by speed being slightly dominant over endurance. The simple act of discovering how to improve your dog's health (naturally, with hTMA) is surprisingly fun to learn. Watching your dog transform is fun too, because improvements are often quick and dramatic. And by balancing your dog's metabolic rate, you can slow the aging process and enjoy each other's companionship longer. What could be more fun? June 15 | Clean Run 15http://www.animalelite.com