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Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is simply inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help with digestion, as well as 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 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 by switching to a pancreatic diet on its own. In the case of recurrent pancreatitis, damage to the pancreas is common, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist.

If you do not follow a diet during pancreatitis, the disease can become chronic and lead to further complications. Some of these complications include diabetes mellitus and a condition known as necrotic pancreatitis, in which the pancreatic tissue gradually dies.

In this condition an abscess and cyst-like pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can pass through the abdomen, damaging blood vessels and causing internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, it is necessary to start the diet as soon as possible. This will prevent complications, develop 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:

  • Injuries to the abdomen;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • certain drugs;
  • cystic fibrosis;
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) used to treat gallstones;
  • Family history of pancreatitis;
    • High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia); High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism); High levels of triglycerides in the blood (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • infection;
  • pancreatic cancer;
  • smoking;
  • ulcer.

Once a tendency for pancreatic attacks to develop, further attacks can result in fatty foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Planning your diet in advance can often be the best prevention against further attacks and further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Mild and severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain in the abdomen that radiates to the back;
  • fever;
  • nausea;
  • vomiting;
  • increased heart rate;
  • fast breathing;
  • steatorrhea;
  • very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Abdominal disruption;
  • weight loss (nothing to do with it).

Danger of pancreatitis

Without treatment, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. See your doctor if you have any symptoms.

  • Pseudocysts collect fluid. If they are broken, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation of the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
  • Kidney failure can occur that requires dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can develop as changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes mellitus can be caused by damage to insulin-producing cells.
  • Malnutrition 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 associated with prolonged inflammation of the pancreas, which is often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

Proper diet is essential to prevent or make pancreatitis attacks less severe. Severe attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Since the pancreas plays a very important role in the process of digestion, it is directly related to food.

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

However, by adding antioxidants to your diet, you can control pancreatitis and prevent complications such as diabetes. Foods rich in antioxidants are an important part of your pancreatitis diet and should be included in your diet.

Some of these antioxidants contain:

  • Vitamin A,
  • Vitamin C,
  • Vitamin E,
  • carotenoids,
  • Selenium.

Most foods should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, proteins and fats that have a supporting role.

The real purpose here is to provide your body with digestible food that does not precede blood sugar and 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 promote healthy digestion. Try a nutritious blackberry lemon salad that contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and essential nutrients, cherries are an excellent food for weight loss, inflammation and restful sleep.
  3. Watermelon:is ​​an excellent source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese. Serve watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Black plum:With a low glycemic index, plus plum has been proven to lower cholesterol and promote digestion. Plum is an ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:Removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. For a snack, try a hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad.
  6. Mango:Along with fiber and vitamin C, mango also contains essential minerals including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This super fruit is linked to improving blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples:Rich in fiber, reduces inflammation and helps digestion. It can be used as a raw material, as well as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apples + cottage cheese (non-fat) provide protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super 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. Beetroot is known to improve heart health, brain health and promote liver function.
  2. Broccoli:Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains 100 percent of the daily value of Vitamin K and Vitamin C, in addition to being rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and helps digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting, anti-diabetic nutrients.
  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 is excellent for the immune system and eye health, as well as for healthy digestion, which is one of the most varied vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 whole grains:

According to research, whole grains should be included in the pancreatitis diet.

  1. Brown rice:Rich in fiber and an excellent substitute for manganese for white rice. 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 take a single serving.
  2. Buckwheat:With protein and fiber, this gluten-free grain is rich in antioxidants and is well absorbed by the body. You can use buckwheat flour to make healthy pancakes in the morning, while buckwheat can be added to salads or made into morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern krazan, is used all over the Mediterranean. Buy only Organic, Aragmo GM Polenta.
  4. Millet:Rich in fiber. This dense dense seed enjoys a rejuvenating time because it is versatile. Millet can be used for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Tef:If you are unfamiliar with Ethiopian tef grains, it's time to learn about it. These grains promote weight loss, boost immunity, promote bone health, and aid digestion. It is available in the form of flour or cereals and can be used to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth: Precious for thousands of years by the Aztecs, this grain is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. This gluten-free cereal promotes digestion, reduces inflammation, fights the development of type 2 diabetes and helps in weight loss. Use instead of oatmeal, white rice or pasta and thicken soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almonds: A distant relative of stone fruit, simple almonds are packed with proteins, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research has shown that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:A true food item, walnuts provide omega-3s for a healthy heart and brain, while helping to reduce inflammation and lower 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 eat half of one serving as they are relatively fatty.
  4. Pumpkin seeds:Packed with healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Eating pumpkin seeds separately can either be added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachio:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it is not surprising that this list is compiled by Pistachio. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and promote weight loss. Save half a ounce because of the fat content.

Top 4 sources of Lean protein:

  1. Fish:Usually diets include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon is associated with healthy cognitive functions, heart health and cancer protection.
  2. Poultry:Low fat chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Follow the bread - Avoid roasting so that the fat content is within healthy limits. To aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintains the integrity of the gut 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 counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast, are also good for a quick lunch and dinner.
  4. Legumes:High in protein, high in fat and fiber, legumes are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as 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:When following your pancreatitis diet, choose low-fat or non-fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweeteners. For intestinal health and protein rich in probiotics, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Cottage cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, cottage cheese is an excellent food, especially on a pancreatitis diet along with other foods such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  3. Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting ability and healthy bacteria that aid digestion, this fermented milk product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.

To avoid food:

  • 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 so;
  • Eat small meals 4-5 times a day;
  • Drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
  • Exercise at leisure to relieve stress and pain.