Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which is simply put. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food, as well as insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. When the pancreas (the long gland located behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body is unable to 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 for several days, and chronic pancreatitis returns for many years. Both types of pancreatitis can cause bleeding and tissue death in or around the pancreas.

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

Failure to follow a diet for pancreatitis can lead to the disease becoming chronic and leading to further complications. Some of these complications include diabetes and a condition called necrotizing pancreatitis, in which the tissue in the pancreas gradually dies.

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

What causes pancreatitis?

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

Other reasons include:

  • Injuries to the abdomen;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • Certain drugs;
  • Cystic fibrosis; Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), used to treat gallstones;
  • Family history of pancreatitis;
  • High blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia);
  • High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
  • High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection
  • ;
  • Pancreatic Cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Ulcer.
When a trend toward pancreatic attacks has developed, further attacks can be triggered by eating high-fat foods, processed foods, and alcohol. It is often possible to plan the diet in advance for the best prevention of further attacks and further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and Signs

  • severe mild pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain in the abdomen radiating to the back;
  • Fever
  • ;
  • Nausea;
  • Urlacan
  • ;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • Fast breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor
  • during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • stomach upps;
  • Weight loss (not related to anything).

The danger of pancreatitis

Left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Get medical attention if symptoms are present.

  • pseudocysts collect fluids. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation in the pancreas puts it at risk for bacteria and infection. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
  • Renal failure may occur, requiring dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can develop as changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes can occur because 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

Proper diet is essential to avoid or make pancreatitis attacks so severe. Serious attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Because the pancreas plays a very important role in the digestion of food, it is directly related to food.

Numerous studies have shown that stress and inflammation in the pancreas are caused by artificially processed foods and fats in everyday foods, and that low levels of antioxidants often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the harmful effects of blood. free radicals.

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you control pancreatitis and prevent complications such as diabetes. Foods that are high in antioxidants are an important 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 food should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains with a supporting role of proteins and fats.

The real goal here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to digest and do not spike your blood sugar, and which also saturate your body. It is important not to eat foods that can make or worsen pancreatitis.

Top 8 Results:

  1. Blackberries and Blueberries:These berries are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion. Try a nutritious dense Blackberry Lemon Salad containing heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds, and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and promote restful 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 Plums:with a low glycemic index, plums have been proven to lower cholesterol levels and aid digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluids and relieves inflammation. For snacks, try the grape, chicken and walnut heart salad.
  6. Mango:Along with fiber and vitamin C, mangoes also contain essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This excellent result has been linked to improved blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples: high in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. It can be used raw and as a side dish or as a dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (not fatty) provides healthy protein, calcium, and fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this excellent fruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 Vegetables:

  1. Beetroot: packed with essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Beets are known to improve heart health, brain health and support liver function.
  2. Broccoli:Only over 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. Plus in a cup of cooked broccoli, rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and helps digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting nutrients, protecting against diabetes.
  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, as one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.

The 6 Whole Grains:

Research suggests that whole grains should be eaten in the diet of pancreatitis.

  1. Brown rice:high in fiber and rich in manganese Excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is moderately high in calories, so it is 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 in morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse maize, like 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 revival because it is so useful. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you are not familiar with Ethiopian teff grain, it is time to learn about it. This grain promotes weight loss, boosts immunity, promotes bone health and helps with digestion. It is available in flour or grain form, and you can use it to make cereals, pancakes, or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:It has been revered by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain is a great source of fiber, manganese and protein. Gluten-free whole grains help with digestion, reduce inflammation, fight type 2 diabetes, and aid in weight loss. Use instead of oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, plain almonds are packed with protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one service.
  2. walnuts:True nutritional power, walnuts provide omega-3s to support a healthy heart and brain by 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 a healthy dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to half of the serving, because they are relatively high in fat.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:is ​​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 surprise that pistachios are on this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss. Stick in half serving because of the fat content.

The 4 Sources of Protein Follow:

  1. Fish:Diets usually include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been implicated in healthy cognitive functions, heart health and cancer protection.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are great sources of protein. Stick to baking - avoid frying to keep the fat content within healthy limits. And to help digestion, eat chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine to maintain gut integrity by altering gut microbiome (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 great for a quick lunch and dinner.
  4. Legumes: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 help with weight loss. loss. Specific beans including lentils contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

The 3 Low Fat Dairy Products:

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

Foods to Avoid:

  • Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
  • Allergens identified as soy, dairy, corn, and artificial sweeteners;
  • Fried foods;
  • White flour products such as pasta and white bread;
  • Sugar
  • ;
  • Trans fatty acids in industrially prepared foods; Lifestyle changes
  • to prevent recurrence of pancreatitis;
  • If you smoke or use other tobacco products, stop doing so;
  • Eat small meals 4-5 times a day;
  • Drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Relaxation exercise to relieve stress and pain.