Pancreatitis, simply put, is an inflammation of the pancreas. This vital organ produces enzymes that aid in the digestion of food, as well as insulin, which controls blood sugar levels. When the pancreas (the long gland located behind the stomach) becomes inflamed, the body is unable to absorb all the nutrients it needs.
Pancreatitis can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic. Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and lasts 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 necessary.
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 tissue in the pancreas gradually dies.
In this condition, abscesses and cystic pockets develop and the inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can seep through the abdomen, damage blood vessels, and cause internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, then it is necessary, as soon as possible, to start a diet. This will prevent complications, the development of chronic pancreatitis and provide relief from 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 (hypercalcemia);
- High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
- High blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
- Infection;
- Pancreatic cancer;
- Smoking;
- Ulcer.
Once a trend towards pancreatic attacks has developed, further attacks can be triggered by eating high-fat foods, 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;
- 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 (not related to anything).
The danger of pancreatitis
Left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if symptoms are present.
- Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. If they break, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
- The inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infection. In some cases, surgery may be required.
- Renal failure may occur, requiring dialysis.
- Breathing problems can develop as changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.
- Diabetes can occur as insulin-producing cells are damaged.
- Malnutrition is quite common as 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 proper diet is essential 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 meals cause stress and inflammation of the pancreas, and that low blood antioxidant levels often lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the damaging 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 food 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 foods that are easy to digest and that don't spike your blood sugar, and that also saturates your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or worsen pancreatitis.
Top 8 Fruits:
- 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 Lemon Salad that contains heart-healthy olive oil, sesame seeds, and almonds.
- Cherries:Low in calories and high in essential nutrients, cherries are the perfect snack to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and promote restful sleep.
- Watermelon:is a great 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, plus plums have been proven to lower cholesterol levels and aid in digestion. Plums are the ideal fruit for pancreatitis.
- Red grapes:removes excess fluid and relieves inflammation. For a snack, try the hearty grape, chicken and walnut salad.
- Mango:Together 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 glucose levels and glycemic control.
- Apples:high in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids in digestion. It can be used both raw and as a side dish or dessert. For example, baked apple + cottage cheese (not fatty) provides protein, calcium, and healthy fiber.
- Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.
Top 5 Vegetables:
- 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.
- 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.
- Spinach:Spinach is famous for its immune-boosting, diabetes-protective nutrients.
- Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great.
- Carrots:Beta Carotene is great for immune system and eye health, as well as healthy digestion, being one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.
Top 6 Whole Grains:
Research suggests that whole grains should be consumed in the pancreatitis diet.
- Brown rice:high in fiber and rich in manganese An excellent substitute for white rice. Brown rice can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so sticking to a single serving size is recommended.
- 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 into morning porridge.
- Polenta:This coarse maize, similar to Southern grits, is used throughout the Mediterranean. Purchase only organic, non-GMO polenta.
- 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
- Teff:If you are not familiar with the Ethiopian teff grain, it's time to learn about it. This grain promotes weight loss, boosts immunity, maintains bone health and aids in digestion. It is available in flour or grain form, and you can use it to make cereals, pancakes, or tortillas.
- 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 in digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes, and aid in weight loss. Use in place of oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.
Top 5 nuts and seeds:
- Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, plain almonds are packed with protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Research shows that almonds can help control blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Due to their relatively high fat content, limit yourself to one serving.
- Walnuts: 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 a healthy dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat in moderation and stick to half of one serving, as they are relatively high in fat.
- Pumpkin Seeds:are packed with healthy fats, protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
- Pistachios:Cultivated all over the Mediterranean, it's no wonder pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and aid with weight loss. Stick to one half serving because of the fat content.
Top 4 Lean Protein Sources:
- Fish:Usually diets include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon has been associated with healthy cognitive functions, heart health, and cancer protection.
- Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stick to baking - avoid frying to keep the fat content within healthy limits. And to aid digestion, consume chicken bone broth, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintains gut integrity by altering gut microbiota (flora) to improve digestive function.
- Eggs:Eggs are high in protein, rich in amino acids and have less saturated fat than their counterparts. Eggs, a typical breakfast staple, are also great for a quick lunch and dinner.
- 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 blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. Specific beans including lentils contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.
Top 3 Low-Fat Dairy Products:
- Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt with no added sugar or sweeteners when dieting for pancreatitis. High in probiotics for gut health and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
- Cottage cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, cottage cheese is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods on the pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
- Kefir:Known for its immune-enhancing properties and healthy bacteria that aid digestion, this fermented milk 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.