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Diet against pancreatitis

Simply put, pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food, as well as insulin, which controls blood sugar. When the pancreas (the long gland behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body is unable to absorb all the necessary nutrients.

diet rules in case of 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 pancreatitis can cause bleeding and tissue death in or around the pancreas.

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

If you do not follow a pancreatitis diet, 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, abscesses and cyst-like pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can enter the abdomen, damage blood vessels and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, you should start dieting as soon as possible. This will prevent complications, the development of chronic pancreatitis and relieve your pain.

What causes pancreatitis?

Although there are many causes of pancreatitis, the most common are gallstones (acute pancreatitis) and alcohol abuse (chronic pancreatitis).

Other reasons include:

  • Abdominal injuries;
  • Abdominal surgery;
  • certain medicines;
  • 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 levels of triglycerides in the blood (hypertriglyceridaemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Ulcer.

When there is a tendency for pancreatic attacks, further attacks can be caused by eating fatty foods, processed foods and alcohol. Advance diet planning can often be the best prevention against further attacks and further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and Symptoms

  • mild or severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Abdominal pain radiating to the back;
  • Fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • rapid breathing;
  • Steatore;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Stomach upset;
  • Weight loss (not related to anything).

Dangers of pancreatitis

Untreated pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

  • 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 require dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can occur because changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes can be caused by damage to insulin-producing cells.
  • 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 chronic inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

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

Many studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in daily meals cause pancreatic stress and inflammation, and that low levels of antioxidants in the blood often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the effects of free radicals.

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

The real goal here is to provide your body with easily digestible foods that do not lower your blood sugar and that also saturate your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or worsen pancreatitis.

Fruit top 8:

  1. Blackberries and blueberries:These berries are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and K, which promote healthy digestion. Try the nutrient-dense Blackberry Lemon Salad, which contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and high in nutrients, cherries are an ideal 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 smoothies for breakfast or afternoon tea;
  4. Black plums:Low glycemic index, as well as plums, have been shown to lower cholesterol and promote digestion. Plums are an ideal fruit for the treatment of pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. For a snack, try a hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad.
  6. Mango:Mango, along with fiber and vitamin C, also contains essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This superfruit is associated with improved blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
  7. Apples: High in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. It can be used both raw and as an accompaniment or dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (not fatty) provides protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this superfruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 Vegetables:

  1. Beets: Packed 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:Only a cup of boiled broccoli contains more than 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. Plus, rich in minerals, this vegetable fights cancer and promotes digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is famous for its immune-boosting nutrients in protecting against diabetes.
  4. Potatoes:Rich in beta carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese. Potatoes are a 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:

Studies show that whole grains should be used in a pancreatitis diet.

  1. Brown rice:High in fiber and rich in manganese A great substitute for white rice. Brown rice can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As an additive, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so it is recommended to stick to one serving size.
  2. Buckwheat:High in protein and fiber, this gluten-free grain is high in antioxidants and is well absorbed by the body. Healthy morning pancakes can be made from buckwheat flour, and buckwheat can be added to salads or morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern groats, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic, GMO-free polenta.
  4. Millet:is ​​high in fiber. This nutritious dense seed enjoys a renaissance because it is so versatile. Millet can be used for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you're not familiar with Ethiopian teffo grains, it's time to find out about them. This grain promotes weight loss, increases immunity, maintains bone health and promotes digestion. It is available in the form of flour or cereals, and you can use it to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:For thousands of years, this grain has been a great source of fiber, manganese and protein for the Aztecs. These gluten-free whole grains help digestion, reduce inflammation, fight type 2 diabetes and help you lose weight. 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, plain almonds are packed with protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Studies show that almonds can help control blood sugar and lose weight. Due to its relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:A true nutritional powerhouse, 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 intake of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to one serving per side, as they are relatively high in fat.
  4. Pumpkin seeds:are packed with healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
  5. Pistachios:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it's no wonder that pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol and help lose weight. Stick to one serving because of the fat content.

4 main 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 protection against cancer.
  2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkeys are great sources of protein. Stick to frying - Avoid frying to keep your fat content healthy. To aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintains intestinal integrity by altering the intestinal microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
  3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, high in amino acids and less saturated fat than eggs. Eggs, a typical breakfast dish, are also great for quick lunches and dinners.
  4. Legumes:Legumes are high in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, and are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet because they help stabilize blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Special beans, including lentils, contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

3 main low fat dairy products:

  1. Yogurt:Choose a low- or low-fat yogurt during your diet without adding sugar or sweeteners. This dairy product with a large amount of probiotics for intestinal health and protein is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Cottage cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, cottage cheese is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods in the pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  3. Kefir:This fermented dairy product, known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy digestive bacteria, 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 dishes;
  • white flour products such as pasta and white bread;
  • Sugar;
  • Trans-fatty acids in 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;
  • Take relaxation to reduce stress and pain.