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Diet for pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, simply put, is inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food, as well as insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. When the pancreas (the long gland 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, while chronic pancreatitis recurs for many years. Both types of inflammation of the pancreas can cause bleeding and tissue death in or around the pancreas.

A mild attack of acute pancreatitis can be treated on its own by switching to a pancreatic diet. In recurrent pancreatitis, pancreatic damage is common, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is required.

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

In this condition, abscesses and cyst-like pockets form and the inflammation spreads rapidly. Without treatment, toxins can pass through the abdomen, damage blood vessels, and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have inflammation of the pancreas, you should start your diet as soon as possible. This prevents complications, the development of chronic pancreatitis and relieves pain.

What causes inflammation of the pancreas?

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

Other reasons:

  • Abdominal injuries;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • Certain medications;
  • Cystic fibrosis;
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for the treatment of gallstones;
  • Family history of pancreatitis;
  • High blood calcium (hypercalcaemia);
  • High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
  • High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • ulcer.

Once the trend for pancreatic seizures has developed, further attacks can be triggered by consuming high-fat foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Pre-planning your diet can often be the best prevention against further attacks and further damage to your pancreas.

Signs and Symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Abdominal pain radiating to the back;
  • Fever;
  • Nausea;
  • vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • Fast breathing;
  • Steatorrhoea;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic inflammation of the pancreas);
  • Stomach upset;
  • Weight loss (unrelated to anything).

Risk of inflammation of the pancreas

Without treatment, inflammation of the pancreas can cause serious complications and even death. Get medical attention if symptoms occur.

  • False cysts accumulate fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation of the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be needed.
  • Renal failure may occur which requires dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can occur 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 long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with chronic inflammation of the pancreas.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

Proper diet is essential to avoid or alleviate seizures of pancreatitis. Severe seizures can be fatal if left untreated. Because the pancreas plays a very important role in digesting food, it is directly related to food.

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

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, it regulates pancreatitis and prevents complications such as diabetes. Foods high in antioxidants are an important part of the diet for pancreatitis and should be included in the 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 a supporting role in proteins and fats.

The real goal here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to digest, that don’t raise your blood sugar, and that also saturate your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or exacerbate 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 a nutrient-dense Blackberry lemon salad that contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low-calorie, high-nutrient cherries are the perfect snack to help you lose weight, reduce inflammation and get a good night’s sleep.
  3. Watermelon:An excellent source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese. Drink a watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Black plums:Low glycemic index plus plums have been shown to lower cholesterol and aid digestion. Plums are an ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. Try a hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad as a snack.
  6. Mango:Mango, along with fiber and vitamin C, also contains essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. This super fruit is associated with improved blood sugar levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples:High in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. Can be used raw, as a side dish or as a dessert. For example, baked apples + cottage cheese contain (non-fatty) protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is full of fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and K.

The top five vegetables:

  1. Beets: 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 one cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. In addition to being rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and aids digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is famous for its immune-boosting, anti-diabetic nutrients.
  4. Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese. Potatoes are healthy starch that tastes great.
  5. Carrots:Beta-carotene is great for immune and eye health as well as healthy digestion as it is one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 whole grains:

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

  1. Brown rice:High in fiber and rich in manganese White rice is an excellent substitute. Brown rice can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free cereal is relatively high in calories, so it is recommended to stick to a single serving.
  2. Buckwheat:High in protein and fiber, gluten-free grain is rich in antioxidants and is well absorbed by the body. You can make healthy breakfast pancakes from buckwheat flour and buckwheat into salads or breakfast porridge.
  3. Polenta:This southern corn-like coarse corn is used throughout the Mediterranean. Only buy organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:High in fiber. This nourishing dense seed is experiencing a renaissance because it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you don’t know the Ethiopian tree seed, it’s time to get to know it. This grain promotes weight loss, increases immunity, maintains bone health and promotes digestion. It is available in flour or cereal form and can be used to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:Awarded by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this eye is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free whole grains promote digestion, reduce inflammation, fight type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss. Use it instead of oats, white rice or pasta and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and kernels:

  1. Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, plain almonds are full of protein, fiber, many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help regulate blood sugar levels and lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:Walnuts provide omega-3s as a true nutritional resource to support a healthy heart and brain while reducing inflammation and blood sugar levels.
  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. Consume in moderation and stick to one half of one serving as they are relatively high in fat.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:Full of healthy fats, protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachios:They are grown all over the Mediterranean, no wonder pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol and promote weight loss. Stick to one serving because of the fat content.

The 4 most popular protein sources are:

  1. Fish:Diets usually include 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. Insist on frying - avoid frying to keep fat content within healthy limits. To help digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, and maintain intestinal integrity by altering the intestinal microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids, and less saturated fats than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast ingredient, are also great for quick lunches and dinners.
  4. Legumes:High-protein, low-fat, and high-fiber legumes are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet because they help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. Special beans contain lentils, lipase, digestive enzymes.

Top 3 Low Fat Dairy Products:

  1. Yogurt:For inflammation of the pancreas, choose low or low fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweeteners during your diet. Probiotics that contain gut health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Cottage cheese:Vitamin B12-rich and high-calcium cottage cheese is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods on your pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  3. Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy digestive bacteria, this fermented dairy product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.

Foods to avoid:

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