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Diet for pancreatitis

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

dietary rules in 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 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 required.

If you do not follow a diet for pancreatitis, the disease can become chronic and lead to additional complications. Some of these complications include diabetes and a condition known as necrotizing pancreatitis, in which the tissue in the pancreas 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, it is necessary to start a diet as soon as possible. This will prevent complications, the development of chronic pancreatitis and provide pain relief.

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;
  • Some drugs;
  • 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 (hypertriglyceridemia);
  • Infection;
  • Pancreatic cancer;
  • Smoking;
  • Ulcer.

Once a tendency to pancreatic attacks develops, further 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 further damage to the pancreas.

Signs and symptoms

  • mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
  • Abdominal pain radiating to the back;
  • Fever;
  • Nausea;
  • Vomiting;
  • Increased heart rate;
  • Accelerated breathing;
  • Steatorrhea;
  • Very strong odor during defecation (chronic pancreatitis);
  • Stomach upset;
  • 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 occur.

  • Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
  • Inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
  • Renal failure requiring dialysis may occur.
  • Respiratory problems can develop as 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 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

Proper diet is essential to avoid or make pancreatitis attacks less severe. Severe attacks 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 show 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 high 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 need to 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 foods that are easily digested and that do not raise your blood sugar, and this 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 fruits are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber and vitamins C and K, which support a healthy digestion. Try a nutritious thick salad of blackberries and lemons, which contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
  2. Cherries:Low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, 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. Prunes:Low glycemic index, plus plums have been shown to lower cholesterol and aid digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
  5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. For a snack, try the rich salad of grapes, chicken and walnuts.
  6. Mango:Along with fiber and vitamin C, mango also contains 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 both raw and 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. Beets: Full of essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Beets are known to improve heart health, brain health and maintain function. of the liver.
  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 aids digestion.
  3. Spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting, anti-diabetic nutrients.
  4. Potatoes:rich in beta carotene, vitamin C, honey, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great.
  5. Carrots:Beta carotene is great for the immune system and eye health, as well as for healthy digestion, as it is one of the most flexible vegetables on the planet.

Top 6 whole grains:

Studies show that whole grains should be consumed in the diet of pancreatitis.

  1. Brown rice:high 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 bean is relatively high in calories, so it is recommended that you stick to a single serving.
  2. Buckwheat:High 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 morning porridge.
  3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern porridge, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only GMO-free organic polenta.
  4. Millet:is ​​high in 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 are unfamiliar with the Ethiopian teff grain, it's time to learn about it. This grain promotes weight loss, boosts immunity, maintains bone health and aids digestion. It is available in the form of flour or grain and you can use it to prepare cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
  6. Amaranth:Appreciated by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain 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 lose weight. Use instead 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, ordinary almonds are full of protein, fiber and very important vitamins and minerals. Studies show that almonds can help you control your blood sugar levels and lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
  2. Walnuts:A true nutritional power, walnuts provide omega-3s to maintain 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 a 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:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it is no wonder that pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and help with weight loss. Stick to half a serving because of the fat content.

Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:

  1. Fish:Usually diets include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon is associated with healthy cognitive function, heart health and protection against cancer.
  2. Birds:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stick to baking - avoid frying to keep fat levels within healthy limits. And 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, rich in amino acids and have less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical main breakfast, 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 diet for pancreatitis as they help stabilize blood sugar levels andhelp lose weight. Specific grains, 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 when following a pancreatitis diet. With a high content of probiotics for intestinal health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
  2. Cottage cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and rich in calcium, cottage cheese is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods in the diet for pancreatitis, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
  3. Kefir:Known for its ability to boost immunity and healthy digestive bacteria, 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 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.