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Diet for pancreatitis

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

Dietary guidelines for pancreatitis

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

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

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

In this case, abscesses and cyst-like pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can leak from the abdomen, damage blood vessels and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, it is necessary to start a diet as soon as possible. This will prevent complications, prevent 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 excessive alcohol consumption (chronic pancreatitis).

Other reasons include:

  • Abdominal injuries;
  • 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 (hyperparathyroidism) in the blood;
  • High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Ulcer.

Once a trend towards pancreatic attacks develops, further attacks can be triggered by consuming high-fat foods, processed foods and alcohol. Planning your diet ahead of time can often be the best prevention against subsequent attacks and further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and Symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain radiating to the back of the abdomen;
  • Fire;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • Fast breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Stomach upset;
  • Weight loss (not about anything).

Pancreatitis danger

If left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications or even death. If symptoms are present, seek medical attention.

  • Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infection. In some cases, surgery may be required.
  • Kidney failure requiring dialysis may occur.
  • Breathing problems can develop as changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes can occur when cells that produce insulin 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 long-term pancreatic inflammation often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why is diet important for pancreatitis?

A proper diet is necessary to prevent or make pancreatitis attacks less severe. If left untreated, severe attacks can be fatal. The pancreas is directly related to food as it plays a very important role in the digestion of food.

Numerous studies have shown that artificially processed foods and oils cause stress and inflammation in the pancreas in daily meals, and low blood antioxidant levels often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the harmful effects of free radicals.

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you control pancreatitis and prevent complications such as diabetes. Foods rich 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 food should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains; proteins and fats play a supporting role.

The main purpose here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to digest, do not raise your blood sugar and at the same time fill your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or worsen pancreatitis.

Top 8 Fruits:

  1. Blackberries and Blueberries:These fruits are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion. Try a nourishing rich Blackberry Lemon Salad with heart-friendly olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
  2. Cherry:Being low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and provide restful sleep.
  3. Watermelon:is ​​a great source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese. Have a watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Black Plum:low glycemic index plus plums have been proven to lower cholesterol levels and aid digestion. Plum is an ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. Try the hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad as a snack.
  6. Mango:Mango contains essential minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium along with fiber and vitamin C. This super fruit has been associated with improved blood sugar levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apple:contains high fiber, reduces inflammation and helps digestion. It can be used both raw and as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (not fatty) provides protein, calcium, and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:This super fruit, sweet and crunchy, is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K

Top 5 Vegetables:

  1. Beet: packed with essential nutrients like iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Beets are known to improve heart health, brain health, and support liver function.
  2. Broccoli:Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. In addition, this vegetable rich in minerals fights cancer and helps digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is famous for its foods that strengthen the immune system and protect against diabetes.
  4. Potato:It is rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great.
  5. Carrots:Beta Carotene - One of the most versatile vegetables on the planet, great for immune system and eye health and healthy digestion.

Top 6 Whole Grains:

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

  1. Brown rice:A perfect substitute for white rice, rich in high fiber and manganese. Brown rice can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free cereal is relatively high in calories, so it's recommended to stick to a single 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 morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to Southern grits, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Only buy organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:is ​​high in fiber. This nutrient-dense seed is experiencing a renaissance as it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you are not familiar with Ethiopian teff grain, it's time to learn it. This grain supports weight loss, boosts immunity, protects bone health and aids digestion. It comes in flour or cereal form and you can use it to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:Awarded by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free whole grains aid digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and aid weight loss. Use it as a substitute for oats, white 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 are packed with protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Studies show that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and lose weight. Because of their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnut:A true nutritional center, walnuts help reduce inflammation and blood sugar while providing omega-3s to support a healthy heart and brain.
  3. Sunflower Seeds:Rich in selenium and magnesium as well as vitamin B and vitamin E, sunflower seeds provide a healthy dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Because their fat is relatively high, eat in moderation and stick to half a serving.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:is ​​packed with healthy fats, protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachio:No wonder pistachios grown all over the Mediterranean make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and lose weight. Stick to half a serving because of its fat content.

Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:

  1. Fish:Diets usually contain fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been associated with healthy cognitive function, heart health, and cancer prevention.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Continue cooking - avoid frying to keep the fat content within healthy limits. To aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth, naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, modifying the gut microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function, maintaining gut integrity.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids and lower in saturated fat than their counterparts. A typical breakfast item, eggs are also great for a quick lunch or dinner.
  4. Legumes:Legumes, which are high in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet, as they help balance blood sugar levels and lose weight. Certain beans, including lentils, contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

Top 3 Low-Fat Dairy Products:

  1. Yogurt:When following your pancreatitis diet, choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweeteners. High in probiotic for gut health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Cottage cheese:Cottage cheese, rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods in the pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  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;
  • 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 this;
  • Eat small meals 4-5 times a day;
  • For at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Practice relaxation to reduce stress and pain.