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Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, to put it simply, is an inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food, as well as insulin, which controls blood sugar levels. When the pancreas (the long gland located behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body can't absorb all the nutrients it needs.

dietary rules for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and lasts several days, whereas chronic pancreatitis recurs over many years. Both types of pancreatitis can cause bleeding and death of tissue in or around the pancreas.

Mild attacks of acute pancreatitis can be treated on their own by switching to the pancreatic diet. In cases of recurrent pancreatitis, damage to the pancreas is frequent, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases, consultation with a gastroenterologist is required.

If you do not follow a diet for pancreatitis, it can become chronic and lead to further complications. Some of these complications include diabetes and a condition known as necrotizing pancreatitis, in which the tissue in the pancreas gradually dies.

In this condition, abscesses and cyst-like pockets develop, and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can seep through the stomach, damage blood vessels, and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, it is necessary, as soon as possible, to start a diet. This will prevent complications, progression of chronic pancreatitis and relieve your pain.

What causes pancreatitis?

Although there are many causes of pancreatitis, the most common are gallstones (acute pancreatitis) and excessive alcohol consumption (chronic pancreatitis).

Other reasons include:

  • Injury to the stomach;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • Certain drugs;
  • Cystic fibrosis;
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), used to treat gallstones;
  • Family history of pancreatitis;
  • High blood calcium level (hypercalcemia);
  • High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
  • High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Boils.

Once the trend for pancreatic attacks develops, further attacks can be triggered by eating high-fat, processed foods and alcohol. Planning your diet in advance can often be the best prevention against further attacks and further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and Symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain in the stomach that radiates to the back;
  • Fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • rapid breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • A very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Stomach ache;
  • Weight loss (not related to anything).

Dangers of pancreatitis

If left untreated, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if you have symptoms.

  • Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation in the pancreas makes it susceptible to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be required.
  • Kidney failure may occur, requiring dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can develop because changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes can occur because the insulin-producing cells are damaged.
  • Malnutrition is quite common because the pancreas produces fewer enzymes, making it difficult for the body to break down and process essential nutrients.
  • Pancreatic cancer is associated with prolonged inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

A proper diet is very important to avoid or make pancreatitis attacks less severe. Severe attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Since the pancreas plays a very important role in the digestion of food, it is directly related to food.

Numerous studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in the daily diet cause stress and inflammation of the pancreas, and that low levels of antioxidants in the blood often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the damaging effects of free radicals.

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you control pancreatitis and prevent complications such as diabetes. Foods high in antioxidants are an essential part of the pancreatitis diet and should be included in your diet.

Some of these antioxidants include:

  • Vitamin A,
  • vitamin C,
  • Vitamin E,
  • Carotenoids,
  • Selenium.

Most foods should focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains with protein and fat as their backing.

The real goal here is to provide your body with food that is easy to digest and does not raise your blood sugar, and that also saturates your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or worsen pancreatitis.

Top 8 Fruits:

  1. Blackberries and Blueberries:These berries are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion. Try the nutrient-rich Blackberry Lemon Salad, which contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds, and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to lose weight, reduce inflammation and improve sleep.
  3. Watermelon:is ​​a great source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese. Eat a watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Black Plum:with a low glycemic index, plus prunes have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and aid digestion. Plums are an ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red wine:removes excess fluid and reduces inflammation. For a snack, try the delicious grape, chicken and walnut salad.
  6. Mango:Along with fiber and vitamin C, mangoes also contain essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This super fruit has been linked to increased blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples:are high in fiber, reduce inflammation and aid digestion. It can be used raw and as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apples + cottage cheese (not fat) provide healthy protein, calcium and fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 Vegetables:

  1. Beets: packed with essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium, and B vitamins. Beets are known to promote heart health, brain health, and support liver function.
  2. Broccoli:A cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. Plus, rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and aids digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting and diabetes-protecting nutrients.
  4. Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great.
  5. Carrots:Beta Carotene is great for the immune system and eye health, as well as healthy digestion, being one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 Whole Grains:

Research shows that whole grains should be consumed in the pancreatitis diet.

  1. Brown rice:high in fiber and rich in manganese An excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so it's recommended to stick to one serving size.
  2. Buckwheat:High in protein and fiber, this gluten-free grain is rich in antioxidants and is well absorbed by the body. Buckwheat flour can be used to make healthy morning pancakes, and buckwheat can be added to salads or made into morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to Southern grits, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:high in fiber. This nutrient-dense seed is enjoying a resurgence because it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you are not familiar with Ethiopian teff seeds, now is the time to learn them. These whole grains help with weight loss, boost immunity, maintain healthy bones and aid digestion. It is available in flour or grain form, and you can use it to make cereal, pancakes, or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:Respected by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. Gluten-free whole grains aid digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and aid in weight loss. Use it as a substitute for oats, plain rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almond:A distant relative of many stone fruits, plain almonds contain protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to just one serving.
  2. Walnuts:A true source of nutrition, walnuts provide omega-3s to support heart and brain health while helping to reduce inflammation and blood sugar.
  3. Sunflower Seeds:Rich in B vitamins and vitamin E, as well as selenium and magnesium, sunflower seeds provide healthy essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to half of one serving, as they are relatively high in fat.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:are packed with healthy fats, protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachios:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it's no wonder pistachios are on this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss. Choose a half portion because of the fat content.

Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:

  1. Fish:Usually the diet includes fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been linked to healthy cognitive function, heart health, and cancer protection.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stick to grilling - avoid frying to keep fat content within healthy limits. And to improve digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintaining intestinal integrity by changing the intestinal microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids and have less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast staple, are also great for quick lunches and dinners.
  4. Nuts:High in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, legumes are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as they help stabilize blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. Certain beans including lentils contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

Top 3 Low Fat Dairy Products:

  1. Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweeteners when following your pancreatitis diet. High in probiotics for gut health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Curd:Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, curds are a great snack, especially when combined with other pancreatitis diet foods, such as nuts, seeds, and fruit.
  3. Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy bacteria that aid digestion, this fermented milk product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.

Foods to Avoid:

  • Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
  • Known allergens such as soy, dairy products, corn, and artificial sweeteners;
  • Fried foods;
  • Wheat flour products such as pasta and white bread;
  • Sugar;
  • Trans fatty acids in industrial processed foods;
  • lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence of pancreatitis;
  • If you smoke or use other tobacco products, stop doing it;
  • Eat small meals 4-5 times a day;
  • Drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.