Pancreatitis, to put it simply, is inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that aid in the digestion of food, as well as insulin, which help control blood sugar. When the pancreas (the long gland behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body cannot absorb all the necessary nutrients.
Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and lasts a few days, while chronic pancreatitis recurs for years. Both types of pancreatitis can cause bleeding and tissue death in or around the pancreas.
Mild episodes of acute pancreatitis can be treated on their own by switching to a pancreatic diet. In the case of recurrent acute pancreatitis often damages the pancreas, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases, consultation of a gastroenterologist is required.
If you don't follow the 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 tissues in the pancreas slowly die.
In this condition, abscesses and cyst-like sacs develop, and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, the poison can seep through the abdomen, damaging the blood vessels and causing internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, then it is necessary to start the diet as soon as possible. This will prevent complications, the development of chronic pancreatitis, and help 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:
- Abdominal injury;
- Abdominal surgery;
- Certain drugs;
- Cystic fibrosis;
- Upstream biliary endoscopy (ERCP), used to treat gallstones;
- Family history of pancreatitis;
- High blood calcium concentration (hypercalcemia);
- High level of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
- High blood triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia);
- Infections;
- Pancreatic cancer;
- Smoking cigarettes;
- Sores.
Once the trend of pancreatic attacks has developed, further attacks can be triggered by eating fatty foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Planning in advance for your diet can often be the best defense against further attacks and damage to the pancreas.
Signs and Symptoms
- mild to severe pain in the upper abdomen;
- Pain in the abdomen spreading to the back;
- Fever;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Increased heart rate;
- Rapid breathing;
- Increases blood fat secretion;
- Very strong smell with bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
- Tummy upset;
- Weight loss (not related).
The Dangers of Pancreatitis
If left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms.
- Dummy cysts accumulate liquid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
- Inflammation in the pancreas makes it more susceptible to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be required.
- May have kidney failure, need dialysis.
- Respiratory problems can develop due to changes in the body that can affect oxygen levels.
- Diabetes can happen when insulin-producing cells are damaged.
- Malnutrition is quite common because the pancreas produces less enzymes, making it difficult for the body to break down and process essential nutrients.
- Pancreatic cancer is related to a persistent inflammation of the pancreas, often associated with chronic pancreatitis.
Why diet is important for pancreatitis
A proper diet is essential to avoid or make the attacks of pancreatitis less severe. Serious 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.
Many studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in daily meals cause pancreatitis and stress, and low blood antioxidant levels often lead to chronic pancreatitis. the harmful effects of free radicals.
However, by increasing the antioxidants in your diet, you will keep pancreatitis under control and prevent complications like diabetes. Antioxidant-rich foods are an important part of a pancreatitis diet and should be included in your diet.
Some of these antioxidants include:
- Vitamin A,
- vitamin C,
- Vitamin E,
- Carotenoid,
- Selenium.
Most foods should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains with protein and fat acting as a supporting role.
The real goal here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to digest and that won't raise your blood sugar, while at the same time saturating your body. It is important not to eat foods that could cause or worsen pancreatitis.
Top 8 fruits:
- Raspberries and blueberries:These berries are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion. Try the nutrient-rich black lemon salad that contains olive oil, sesame seeds and heart-healthy almonds.
- Cherries:Containing low in calories and many essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and promote good sleep.
- 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;
- Black Plums:with a low glycemic index, along with plums have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and aid digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
- Red grapes:removes excess fluid and reduces inflammation. For a snack, try a hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad.
- Mango:Along with 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 levels and blood sugar control.
- Apples:is rich in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. It can be used both raw and as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apples + cheese (non-fat) provide healthy protein, calcium and fiber.
- Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is high in fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.
Top 5 vegetables:
- Beetroot: contains many essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and vitamin B. Sugar beets are known to improve heart health, brain and liver function support.
- Broccoli:Just one cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100% of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C. In addition, very rich in minerals, this vegetableAnti-cancer and digestive aid.
- Spinach:Spinach is famous for its immune-boosting nutrients that protect diabetes.
- Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that has a great taste.
- Carrots:Beta Carotene is great for immune system and eye health, as well as healthy digestion, and is one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.
The top 6 grains:
Research shows that whole grains should be consumed in a pancreatitis diet.
- Brown rice:is 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%. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so you should consume a single serving.
- Buckwheat:Containing a lot of protein and fiber, this gluten-free grain is rich in antioxidants and well absorbed by the body. Buckwheat flour can be used to make healthy morning pancakes, and buckwheat can be added to salads or to morning porridge.
- Polenta:This coarse maize, similar to southern maize, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Buy only organic, non-GMO polenta.
- Statistics:is high in fiber. This nutrient-rich nut is being revived as it is so versatile. You can use millet for breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Teff:If you are new to Ethiopian teff, it's time to learn about it. This nut helps with weight loss, boosts immunity, maintains bone health and aids digestion. It's available in either powdered or granular form, and you can use it to make a cereal, pancake or corn cake.
- Amaranth:Valued by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this nut 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 aid weight loss. Use as a substitute for oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.
Top 5 nuts and seeds:
- Almonds:As a distant relative of many rocks, almonds contain a lot of protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar and help you lose weight. Due to the relatively high fat content, you should limit your intake to one serving.
- Walnuts: As a true nutritional powerhouse, walnuts provide omega-3s to support a healthy heart and brain while helping to reduce inflammation and blood sugar.
- Sunflower seeds:Rich in B vitamins and vitamin E, as well as selenium and magnesium, sunflower seeds provide healthy amounts of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and eat half a serving because they are relatively high in fat.
- Pumpkin seeds:contains lots of healthy fats, protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten alone or added to salads or yogurt.
- Pistachios:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it's no wonder pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss. Eat half a serving because of the fat content.
Top 4 sources of lean protein:
- Fish:Typically the diet consists of fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been linked to healthy cognitive function, heart health and cancer protection.
- Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Baking is recommended - avoid frying to keep fat content within healthy limits. And to aid digestion, eat chicken bone broth, which is rich in collagen and natural L-glutamine to maintain intestinal integrity by altering the gut microflora (plant) to improve function. Digest.
- Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids and lower in saturated fat than eggs. Eggs, a typical breakfast snack, are also great for quick lunches and dinners.
- Legumes:High in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, legumes are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet as they help stabilize intake. blood sugar and weight loss support. Specific legumes include lentils that contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.
Top 3 low-fat dairy products:
- Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt with no added sugar or dietary sweeteners for pancreatitis. Containing plenty of gut health probiotics and proteins, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
- Stick cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, stick cheese makes a great snack, especially when combined with other foods in your diet. Pancreatitis people, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
- Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and digestive healthy bacteria, this fermented dairy product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.
Foods to avoid:
- Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
- Known allergens such as soy, milk, corn and artificial sweeteners;
- Fried food;
- White flour products such as pasta and white bread;
- Road;
- Trans fatty acids in industrially processed foods;
- made 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 per day;
- Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.