Pancreatitis, in simple terms, 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 at the back of 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 for several days, while chronic pancreatitis recurs over many years. Both types of pancreatitis can lead to the death of blood or tissues in or around the pancreas.
Mild forms of acute pancreatitis can be treated on their own by switching to a pancreatic diet. In recurrent forms of pancreatitis, pancreatic lesions are common, sometimes leading to malnutrition and diabetes. In both cases it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist.
If you don't follow a pancreatitis diet, the disease can become chronic and lead to further complications. Some of these complications include diabetes and a condition called pancreatitis, in which pancreatic tissue dies.
In this condition, pus and cyst-like pockets form and inflammation spreads quickly. If left untreated, toxins can pass through the abdomen, damaging blood vessels and causing internal bleeding. Therefore, if you have pancreatitis, you should start a diet as soon as possible. It prevents the development of diseases, chronic pancreatitis and relieves your pain.
What causes pancreatitis?
Although there are many causes of pancreatitis, the most common are gallstones (acute pancreatitis) and heavy drinking (chronic pancreatitis).
Other reasons include:
- Abdominal injuries;
- Abdominal surgery;
- Some medicines;
- cystic fibrosis;
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is used to treat gallstones;
- Family history of pancreatitis;
- high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia);
- High levels of parathyroid hormone in the blood (hyperparathyroidism);
- high blood triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia);
- infection;
- Pancreatic cancer;
- smoking;
- ulcer.
Once a pancreatic attack tends to occur, subsequent attacks can be triggered by eating high-fat foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Planning your diet in advance can often be the best way to prevent further pancreatic attacks and subsequent damage.
signs and symbols
- severe and severe pain in the upper abdomen;
- Radiation pain in the back of the abdomen;
- fever;
- Dizziness;
- vomiting;
- Increased heart rate;
- Rapid breathing;
- Steatorrhea;
- Extreme odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
- Stomach upset;
- Weight loss (not related to anything).
Risk of pancreatitis
If left untreated, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and even death. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
- Pseudocysts accumulate fluid. If they break, infection and internal bleeding can occur.
- Inflammation of the pancreas is resistant to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be required.
- Kidneys that require dialysis may not work.
- Respiratory problems can occur when changes in the body affect oxygen levels.
- Diabetes can occur because insulin-producing cells are damaged.
- Malnutrition is common because the pancreas produces fewer enzymes and makes it harder for the body to break down the nutrients it needs.
- Pancreatic cancer is accompanied by chronic inflammation of the pancreas, often accompanied by chronic pancreatitis.
Why diet is important for pancreatitis
Proper nutrition is important to prevent or reduce the risk of pancreatitis. Violent attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Because the pancreas plays an important role in the digestion of food, it is directly related to food.
Numerous studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in the daily diet cause stress and inflammation of the pancreas, as well as antioxidant levels in the blood, which can lead to chronic pancreatitis due to the harmful effects of free radicals.
However, by increasing the amount of antioxidants in your diet, you can control pancreatitis and prevent diseases 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,
- With vitamins,
- Vitamin E,
- Carotenoids,
- Selenium.
Most foods should focus on proteins and fats, which play a supporting role in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The real goal here is to provide your body with foods that are easy to absorb and do not increase your blood sugar, as well as satisfy your body. Do not eat foods that cause or aggravate pancreatitis.
Top 8 fruits:
- Blueberries and Blueberries:These fruits are rich in resveratrol, manganese, fiber and vitamins C and K, which support healthy digestion. Try a nutritious BlackBerry Lemon salad that contains healthy olive oil, sesame seeds and almonds.
- Cherries:Low-calorie and high-nutrient cherries are a great snack to lose weight, reduce inflammation and promote restful sleep.
- Watermelon:An excellent source of vitamins A, B and C, as well as potassium, magnesium and manganese. Eat watermelon smoothie for morning or afternoon tea;
- Plums:Low glycemic index, in addition prunes help lower cholesterol and digestion. Plums are an excellent fruit for pancreatitis.
- Red grapes:removes excess fluid and reduces inflammation. For snacks, try a salad of grapes, chicken and walnuts.
- Mango:Mango contains important minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium along with fiber and vitamin C. This super fruit is associated with an increase in blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
- Apples:high in fiber, reduce inflammation and help digestion. It can be used raw, as a side dish or as a dessert. For example, baked apples + cottage cheese (non-fat) provide protein, calcium and healthy fiber.
- Pomegranate:Sweet and crispy, this super fruit contains fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.
Top 5 Fruits and Vegetables:
- Beetroot: Filled with essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Measles promotes heart health, brain health and liver function.
- Broccoli:One cup of cooked broccoli contains more than 100 percent of the daily value of vitamin K and vitamin C, which helps the plant fight cancer and digestion.
- Spinach:Spinach is known for its immune-boosting, anti-diabetic products.
- Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B6 and manganese. Potatoes - a healthy starch, tastes great.
- Carrots:Beta Carotene is very good for the immune system and eye health, as well as for digestion, as it is one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.
From Top 6:
Studies show that cereals should be included in the pancreatitis diet.
- brown rice:is a good substitute for white rice, which is rich in fiber and rich in manganese. Brown rice can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is high in calories, so it is recommended to keep a serving size.
- Buckwheat:High in protein and fiber, gluten-free, this grain is rich in antioxidants and well absorbed by the body. Buckwheat flour can be used for breakfast pancakes, and buckwheat can be added to salads or breakfast cereals.
- Polenta:This coarse corn, similar to southern wheat, is used in the Mediterranean. Buy organic, non-GMO polenta.
- Tary:Lots of fiber. Since this nutritious dense seed is versatile, it is seeing a renaissance. Millet can be used for breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Teff:If you're not familiar with Ethiopian teff, it's time to find out. This grain promotes weight loss, boosts immunity, maintains bone health and helps digestion. It can be in the form of flour or cereals and can be used to make cereals, pancakes or cakes.
- Amaranth:This grain, which the Aztecs have revered for thousands of years, is an excellent source of fiber, manganese and protein. These gluten-free cereals help digestion, reduce inflammation, fight the development of type 2 diabetes and help you lose weight. Use instead of oatmeal, white rice or pasta and as a thickener for soups.
Top 5 nuts and seeds:
- Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, simple almonds are packed with protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Studies show that almonds help control blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Since it is relatively high in fat, limit it to one serving.
- Walnuts:True nutritional power, walnuts provide omega-3s, support a healthy heart and brain, and help reduce inflammation and blood sugar.
- Sunflower seeds:Rich in B vitamins and vitamin E, as well as selenium and magnesium, sunflower seeds provide a dose of essential fatty acids, amino acids and fiber. Eat too much and stick to half a serving because they are high in fat.
- Pumpkin seeds:are packed with healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or kefir.
- Pistachios:Pistachios are grown all over the Mediterranean, because pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and lose weight. Glue half of the fat.
Top 4 Sources of Protein:
- Fish:The diet usually includes fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon is associated with cognitive health functions, heart health and cancer prevention.
- Poultry:Lean chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Bake bread - Avoid frying so that the fat content is within healthy limits. To help with digestion, it uses chicken bone broth, which is rich in collagen and L-glutamine, to alter the intestinal microbiota (flora) and improve intestinal function.
- Eggs:Eggs are rich in protein, amino acids, and low in saturated fat. Eggs are good for a normal breakfast as well as a quick lunch and dinner.
- Beans:Beans, which are high in protein, low in fat and high in fiber, are an important part of a healthy pancreatitis diet because they help stabilize blood sugar levels and help you lose weight. Lentils contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.
3 low-fat dairy products:
- Pancreatitis When Considering Your Diet
- Yogurt:Don't add low-fat or low-fat yogurt without sugar or sweets. Containing probiotics for intestinal health, these dairy products are great for breakfast.
- Cheese:Cheese is rich in vitamin B12 and high in calcium, especially when combined with other foods such as nuts, seeds and fruits in the pancreatitis diet.
- Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy bacteria that help digestion, this sour milk contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.
Avoid foods:
- Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
- Known allergens such as soy, milk, 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 or use other tobacco products, quit;
- Eat less food 4-5 times a day;
- Drink at least 2 liters of water a day;
- Practice relaxation to relieve stress and pain.