Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is simply an inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food and insulin, which 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 for several days, while chronic pancreatitis recurs for 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. Recurrent pancreatitis often causes damage to the pancreas, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases there is a need to consult a gastroenterologist.

If you do not follow a diet for pancreatitis, the disease can become chronic and lead to further complications. Some of these complications include diabetes and a disease such as necrotic pancreatitis, which results in the gradual death of pancreatic tissue.

In this condition, abscesses and cysts-like pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can leak out of the abdomen, damage blood vessels, and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, you need to start a diet as soon as possible. This will prevent the development of complications, chronic pancreatitis and get rid of 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 are:

  • Abdominal injuries;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • Some medications;
  • Cystic fibrosis;
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) used in the treatment of 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;
  • Xora.

As the tendency to panic attacks develops, more attacks can occur with eating fatty foods, processed foods and alcohol. Planning your diet in advance can best prevent attacks and further damage to the pancreas in most cases.

Signs and Symptoms

  • severe and severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain in the abdomen;
  • fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • rapid breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • stomach upset;
  • Weight loss (not related to anything).

Danger of pancreatitis

If left untreated, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. If you have symptoms, consult your doctor.

  • Pseudocysts collect fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation of the pancreas makes it susceptible to bacteria and infection. In some cases, surgery may be required.
  • There may be kidney failure that requires dialysis.
  • Respiratory problems can develop because changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Damage to insulin-producing cells can lead to diabetes.
  • Nutrition is quite common because the pancreas produces fewer enzymes, making it harder for the body to break down and process essential nutrients.
  • Pancreatic cancer is often associated with long-term inflammation of the pancreas associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

A proper diet is important to prevent or aggravate pancreatitis attacks. Severe attacks can be fatal if left untreated. The pancreas is directly involved in food because it plays a very important role in the digestion of food.

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

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you manage pancreatitis and prevent complications such as diabetes. Foods high in antioxidants are an important part of the pancreatitis diet and should be 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, which contain proteins and fats that play a supporting role.

The real goal here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to digest, do not jump in blood sugar, and at the same time saturate your body. It is important not to eat foods that cause or worsen pancreatitis.

Top 8 Fruits:

  1. Blueberries and Blueberries:This berry is rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber and vitamins C and K that support healthy digestion. Try a nutritious BlackBerry Lemon Salad with olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds, which are good for the heart.
  2. Cherries:Low-calorie and high-nutrient 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 watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Plums:Low glycemic index plums have been shown to lower cholesterol and help digestion. Plums are an ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and eliminates inflammation. Try a saturated grape, chicken and walnut salad for a snack.
  6. Mango:Mango contains essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, along with fiber and vitamin C. It is associated with super fruit, improved blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples: It is rich in fiber, reduces inflammation and helps digestion. It can be used both raw and as a garnish or dessert. For example, baked apples + cottage cheese (not fatty) provide protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:This sweet and crispy super fruit is full of fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 Vegetables:

  1. Beets: Filled 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:Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of vitamin K and vitamin C daily, this mineral-rich vegetable fights cancer and helps digestion.
  3. spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting, anti-diabetic foods.
  4. Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes very good.
  5. Carrots:Beta carotene, one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet, is great for both the immune system and eye health, as well as healthy digestion.

Top 6 Whole Grains:

Studies suggest consuming whole grains in the pancreatitis diet.

  1. Brown rice:Rich in fiber and manganese White rice substitute. Brown rice can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, these gluten-free cereals are relatively high in calories, so it's a good idea to stick to one serving size.
  2. Buckwheat:This grain, which is rich in protein and fiber, is rich in antioxidants and is well absorbed by the body. Buckwheat flour can be used to make healthy morning pancakes, buckwheat can be added to salads or morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:Similar to southern seeds, this coarse corn is used in the Mediterranean. Get only organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:is ​​high in fiber. This nutritious dense seed is experiencing a renaissance because of its versatility. Millet can be used for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you're not familiar with Ethiopian teff, it's time to find out. This grain helps to lose weight, increases immunity, protects bone health and helps digestion. It is available in the form of flour or cereals and can be used to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:This grain, rewarded by the Aztecs for thousands of years, is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free whole grains help digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and help with weight loss. Use oats, white rice or pasta instead and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, ordinary almonds are full of protein, fiber and many important vitamins and minerals. Studies show that almonds can help you control your sugar levels and lose weight. Limit yourself to one serving due to its relatively high fat content.
  2. Walnuts:Walnuts, which have real nutritional power, provide omega-3, which helps reduce inflammation and blood sugar to support a healthy heart and brain.
  3. Sunflower Seeds:Sunflower seeds, which are rich in B vitamins and vitamin E, as well as selenium and magnesium, provide the necessary amount of fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stay at half a serving as they are relatively fatty.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:is ​​full of healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachios:Cultivated all over the Mediterranean, it is not surprising that peanuts make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and lose weight. Stay halfway through the service due to the fat content.

Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:

  1. Fish:Diets usually include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been linked to healthy cognitive functions, heart health and protection against cancer.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stay in the bakery - avoid frying to keep the fat content healthy. And to help digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, while maintaining intestinal integrity by altering the intestinal microbiota (flora) to improve digestion.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids, and less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, which are a typical breakfast, are also great for a quick lunch and dinner.
  4. Legumes:Legumes, which are high in protein, low in fat and fiber, are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as they help stabilize blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Beans, including lentils, contain lipase, a special digestive enzyme.

Top 3 Low Fat Dairy Products:

  1. Yogurt:When following your pancreatitis diet, choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt that does not add sugar or sweeteners. High in probiotics in terms of intestinal health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Curd:Curd, which is rich in vitamin B12 and calcium, is an excellent snack, especially when mixed with other foods such as nuts, seeds and fruits in the pancreatitis diet.
  3. Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy bacteria that help digestion, this fermented milk product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.

Foods to avoid:

  • Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
  • Allergens known as soy, milk, 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;
  • Eat small meals 4-5 times a day;
  • drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Apply relaxation to relieve stress and pain.