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Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is, simply put, 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 (a long gland located behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body is unable to absorb all the necessary nutrients.

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 over 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 the case of recurrent pancreatitis, damage to the pancreas is common, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases, a consultation with a gastroenterologist is necessary.

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 condition known as necrotizing pancreatitis, in which pancreatic tissue gradually dies.

In this condition, cyst-like abscesses and pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can leak through 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, the development of chronic pancreatitis and relieve 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 medications;
  • Cystic fibrosis;
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), used to treat gallstones;
  • Family history of pancreatitis;
  • High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcaemia);
  • High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
  • High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Boil.

Once the trend towards pancreatic attacks develops, further attacks can be triggered by eating foods high in fat, processed foods and alcohol. Advance diet planning can often be the best prevention against further seizures and further pancreatic damage.

Signs and symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in upper abdomen;
  • Abdominal pain radiating to the back;
  • Fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased pulse;
  • rapid breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Upset stomach;
  • Weight loss (not related to anything).

Danger of pancreatitis

If left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if symptoms are present.

  • Pseudocysts 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, requiring dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can develop because 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 less 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 nutrition is crucial to avoid pancreatitis attacks or make them less serious. Severe seizures 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 artificially processed foods and fats in daily meals cause stress and inflammation of the pancreas, and that low levels of antioxidants in the blood 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 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 foods should focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and proteins and fats play a supporting role.

The real goal here is to provide your body with food that is easily digested and that does not raise 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 a nutritious blackberry lemon salad that contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, they 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, 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. For a snack, try a hearty salad of grapes, chicken and walnuts.
  6. Mango:Along with fiber and vitamin C, mangoes also contain essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This super fruit is associated with improved blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples:high in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. It can be used raw, as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (not greasy) provides protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is full of fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 vegetables:

  1. Beetroot: Full of essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and vitamin B. Beetroot is known to improve heart health, brain health and support liver function.
  2. Broccoli:Just a cup of cooked broccoli contains over 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. Plus, rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and helps digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is known for its nutrients that boost immunity and protect 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 - Great for the immune system and eye health, as well as for healthy digestion, is one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 whole grains:

Research suggests that whole grains should be eaten in a diet with pancreatitis.

  1. Brown rice:rich in fiber and rich in manganese An excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so it is recommended to keep one portion size.
  2. Buckwheat:Rich 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 used to make morning porridge.
  3. Polenta: This coarse corn, similar to southern semolina, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:contains a lot of fiber. This nutritious dense seed is enjoying a renaissance because it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you’re not familiar with the Ethiopian grain of teff, it’s time to learn about it. This grain promotes weight loss, strengthens immunity, maintains bone health and aids digestion. It is available in the form of flour or grains, and you can make cereals, pancakes or tortillas from it.
  6. Amaranth:Appreciated by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These whole grain gluten-free cereals help with digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes and help with weight loss. Use instead of oats, white rice or pasta and as a means of thickening soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, ordinary almonds are full of protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control your blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:True nutritional power, walnuts provide omega-3s to support a healthy heart and brain, 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 a healthy dose of 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 full of healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachios:Grown all over the Mediterranean, it's no wonder that pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and help with weight loss. Stick to one half portion because of the fat content.

Top 4 non-fat protein sources:

  1. Fish:Usually the diet includes fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon is associated with healthy cognitive functions, heart health and protection against cancer.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stick to baking - avoid frying to keep fat content within healthy limits. And to aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth that is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintains intestinal integrity by altering the gut microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are rich in protein, rich in amino acids and have less saturated fat than their other. Eggs, a typical staple for breakfast, are also great for a quick lunch and dinner.
  4. Legumes:Rich in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, legumes are an important part of a healthy diet for pancreatitis because they help stabilize blood sugar levels and help with weight loss. Specific beans, including lentils, contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

Top 3 low fat dairy products:

  1. Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt, without added sugar or sweeteners, while adhering to a pancreatitis diet. Rich in probiotics for gut health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Fresh cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and rich in calcium, fresh cheese is an excellent snack, especially in combination with other foods on a pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  3. Kefir:Known for its ability to boost immunity and healthy bacteria that aid digestion, this fermented dairy 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 cigarettes 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;
  • Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.