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Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, in simple terms, is 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 nutrients it needs.

diet rules for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic. Acute pancreatitis comes on suddenly and lasts for several days, while chronic pancreatitis recurs for many years. Both types of pancreatitis can cause bleeding and death of tissue in or around the pancreas.

Mild attacks of acute pancreatitis can be treated on their own 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 necessary.

If you do not follow a diet for pancreatitis, the disease can become chronic and lead to other 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 quickly. If left untreated, toxins can seep into the abdomen, damage blood vessels and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, it is necessary, as soon as possible, to start a diet. 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 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 blood calcium levels (hypercalcaemia);
  • 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 has developed, other attacks can be triggered by eating foods high in fat, processed foods, and alcohol. Planning your diet in advance can often be the best prevention against further attacks and other damage to the pancreas.

Signs and symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Pain in the abdomen that radiates to the back;
  • fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • Rapid breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
  • upset stomach;
  • Weight loss (unrelated to nothing).

The danger of pancreatitis

Left untreated, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. Consult a doctor in case of symptoms.

  • Pseudocysts collect 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 necessary.
  • Kidney failure may occur, requiring dialysis.
  • Breathing problems can occur because changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
  • Diabetes can occur when 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 prolonged inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important for pancreatitis

A good diet is essential to avoid or reduce attacks of pancreatitis. Severe seizures can be fatal if left untreated. The pancreas playing a very important role in the digestion of food, it is directly linked to food.

Numerous studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in daily meals cause stress and inflammation in the pancreas, and low levels of antioxidants in the blood often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to theharmful 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, with protein and fat playing a supporting role.

The real goal here is to provide your body with food that is easy to digest and does not raise your blood sugar, and which also saturates your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or make pancreatitis worse.

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 and lemon salad that contains olive oil, sesame seeds, and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to aid weight loss, reduce inflammation and promote restful sleep.
  3. Watermelon:is ​​an excellent 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 proven to lower cholesterol levels and aid digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. For a snack, try the hearty salad with raisins, chicken and nuts.
  6. Mango:In addition to fiber and vitamin C, mangoes also contain essential minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This super fruit has been linked to improved blood sugar and blood sugar 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 (non-fat) provides healthy protein, calcium, and fiber.
  8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.

Top 5 vegetables:

  1. Beet: rich in essential nutrients like iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Beets are known to improve heart health, brain healthand support liver function.
  2. Broccoli:A single 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 cancerand aids digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is renowned for its nutrients that boost the immune system and protect against 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 is excellent for the immune system and eye health, as well as for healthy digestion, being one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 Whole Grains:

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

  1. Brown rice:high in fiber and high in manganese An excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16%. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so sticking to a single serving is recommended.
  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 pancakes in the morning, and buckwheat can be added to salads or porridge in the morning.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern porridge, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic, non-GMO polenta.
  4. Millet:is ​​high in fiber. This dense and nutritious seed is enjoying a rebirth because it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
  5. Teff:If you are not familiar with the Ethiopian teff grain, now is the time to learn more. This grain promotes weight loss, strengthens immunity, maintains bone health, and aids digestion. It is available in flour or grain form and you can use it to make cereal, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:Prized by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free whole grains aid digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and help with weight loss. Use in place of oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

  1. Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, simple almonds are packed with protein, fiber, and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar and lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:True nutritional powerhouse, nuts 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 andof fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to half a serving, as they are relatively high in fat.
  4. Pumpkin Seeds:are packed with healthy fats, protein 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 are on this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and help you lose weight. Stick to half a serving because of the fat content.

The 4 main sources of lean protein:

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

Top 3 low fat dairy products:

  1. Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweetener when dieting for pancreatitis. Rich in probiotics for gut health and protein, this dairy product 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:Known for its immune properties 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, 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 using it;
  • Eat small meals 4 to 5 times a day;
  • Drink at least 2 liters of water per day;
  • Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.