Diet for pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is simply an inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that help digest food and insulin, which controls blood sugar levels. When the pancreas (the long gland behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body cannot absorb all of the nutrients it needs.

Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and lasts for several days, while chronic pancreatitis returns 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 alone. Recurrent pancreatitis often results in damage to the pancreas, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. Consultation with a gastroenterologist is required in both cases.

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 the tissues in the pancreas gradually die.

In this condition, abscesses and cyst-like pockets develop, and the inflammation spreads quickly. Left untreated, toxins can seep through the abdomen, damaging blood vessels and causing internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, it is necessary to start dieting as soon as possible. This prevents complications, developing chronic pancreatitis, and relieves 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 are:

• injuries to the abdomen;
• abdominal surgery;
• certain drugs;
• cystic fibrosis;
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for the treatment of gallstones;
• Family history of pancreatitis;
• high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia);
• High levels of parathyroid hormones in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
• High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
• infection;
• pancreatic cancer;
• smoking;
• ulcer.

Once a trend towards pancreatic seizures has developed, further seizures can be triggered by eating high-fat foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Planning your diet early on can often be the best prevention against further seizures and damage to the pancreas.

Signs and symptoms

• slight to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
• pain in the abdomen radiating backwards;
• fever;
• nausea;
• vomiting;
• Increased heart rate;
• rapid breathing;
• steatorrhea;
• Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
• upset stomach;
• weight loss (unrelated).

The risk of pancreatitis

If left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Consult a doctor if symptoms occur.

• Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. When they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
• The inflammation in the pancreas makes it susceptible to bacteria and infection. In some cases, surgery may be required.
• Kidney failure may occur and require dialysis.
• Breathing problems can occur as changes in the body can affect the level of oxygen.
• Diabetes can occur when cells that produce insulin are damaged.
• Malnutrition is 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 persistent inflammation of the pancreas, which is often associated with chronic pancreatitis.

Why diet is important in pancreatitis

Proper diet is important to avoid or make the attacks of pancreatitis less severe. Severe attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Since 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 everyday foods cause stress and inflammation in the pancreas, and that low levels of antioxidants in the blood, due to the harmful effects of free radicals, often lead to chronic pancreatitis.

However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you control pancreatitis and prevent complications like 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 should focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with proteins and fats playing a supporting role.

The real goal here is to provide your body with easily digestible foods that will not make your blood sugar rise and that will also satiate 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 and lemon salad that features heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds, and almonds.
2. Cherries:Cherries are low in calories and rich in essential nutrients. They're the perfect snack to promote 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. Have a watermelon smoothie for breakfast or afternoon tea;
4. Black plums:with a low glycemic index and plums have been shown to lower cholesterol and aid digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
5. Red grapes:removes excess fluid and soothes inflammation. For a snack, try the hearty grape, chicken, and walnut salad.
6. Mango:In addition to fiber and vitamin C, mangoes also contain important minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. This superfruit has been linked to improved blood sugar levels and blood sugar control.
7. Apples:rich in fiber, reduces inflammation and helps with digestion. It can be used both raw and as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (non-fatty) provides protein, calcium, and healthy fiber.
8. Pomegranate:Sweet and crispy, this super fruit is full of 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. Beets are known to improve heart health, brain health, and support liver function.
2. Broccoli:Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains over 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. In addition, this vegetable, which is rich in minerals, fights cancer and promotes digestion.
3. Spinach:Spinach is famous for its immune-boosting, diabetes-protecting nutrients.
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 the health of the eyes as well as for healthy digestion and is one of the most versatile vegetables in the world.

Top 6 whole grain products:

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

1. Brown rice:rich in fiber and rich in manganese An excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free cereal is relatively high in calories, so sticking to a single serving size is recommended.
2. Buckwheat:This gluten-free cereal is rich in protein and fiber, 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 in morning porridge.
3. Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern grains, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic polenta without GMOs.
4. Millet:is ​​rich in fiber. This nutritious, dense seed is enjoying a renaissance because it's so versatile. You can have millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
use
5. teff:If you're not familiar with the Ethiopian teff grain, it's time to learn about it. This grain promotes weight loss, strengthens immunity, maintains bone health, and aids digestion. It is available in flour or cereal form and can be used to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
6. Amaranth:This grain has been valued by the Aztecs for thousands of years and is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free whole grain products aid digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and help you lose weight. Use in place of oats, white rice or pasta and as a thickener for soups.

Top 5 nuts and seeds:

1. Almonds:Almonds are a distant relative of many stone fruits and are full of protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. Limit yourself to one serving due to their relatively high fat content.
2. Walnuts:Walnuts are a real powerhouse for nutrition and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which support a healthy heart and brain while reducing inflammation and blood sugar.
3. Sunflower seeds:Sunflower seeds are rich in B vitamins and vitamin E as well as selenium and magnesium and contain a healthy dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to half a serving as these are relatively high in fat.
4. Pumpkin seeds:are filled with 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 pistachios make this list. They are known to lower cholesterol and help you lose weight. 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 has been linked to healthy cognitive function, heart health, and cancer protection.
2. Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stick to baking - avoid frying to keep fat levels within healthy limits. To aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally high in collagen and L-glutamine, and which maintains gut integrity by altering gut microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
3. Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, high in amino acids, and have less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast staple, are also great for quick lunches and dinners.
4. Legumes:Legumes are high in protein, low in fat and high in fiber. They are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as they help stabilize blood sugar levels and help reduce weight. Specific beans, including lentils, contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.

Top 3 low-fat dairy products:

1. Yoghurt:For a diet against pancreatitis, choose low-fat or low-fat yoghurt without added sugar or sweeteners. This dairy product is rich in gut health probiotics and protein and is ideal for breakfast.
2. Cottage cheese:Cottage cheese is high in vitamin B12 and high in calcium and makes a great snack, especially when paired with other pancreatitis diet foods like nuts, seeds, and fruits.
3. Kefir:This fermented milk product is known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy bacteria that aid digestion. It contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.

Foods to avoid:

• alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
• Well-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 pancreatitis from recurring;
• If you smoke cigarettes or use other tobacco products, quit.
• Eat small meals 4-5 times a day.
• Drink at least 2 liters of water a day.
• Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.