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 there is a need for consultation with a gastroenterologist.
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 die gradually.
In this condition, cyst-like abscesses and pockets develop and inflammation spreads rapidly. If left untreated, toxins can penetrate 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, develop 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:
- Abdominal injuries;
- Abdominal surgery;
- Some medicines;
- 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 predisposition towards pancreatic attacks develops, 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;
- Abdominal pain radiating to the back;
- Ethet;
- Mixed;
- Vomiting;
- Increased heart rate;
- Rapid breathing;
- Steatororea;
- Very strong odor during bowel movements (chronic pancreatitis);
- Anxious stomach;
- Weight loss (nothing to do with it).
Risk 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 down, they cause infection and internal bleeding.
- Inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infections. In some cases, surgery may be required.
- Kidney failure may occur, requiring dialysis.
- Respiratory 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 to break down and process essential nutrients.
- Pancreatic cancer is associated with prolonged inflammation of the pancreas, often accompanied by chronic pancreatitis.
Why diet is important for pancreatitis
A proper diet is essential to avoid or make pancreatic attacks less severe. Severe attacks can be fatal if left untreated. Since the pancreas plays a very important role in digestion, it is directly related to food.
Numerous studies have shown that artificially processed foods and fats in everyday foods cause stress and inflammation of the pancreas and that low levels of blood antioxidants 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 rich 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,
- Selen.
Most foods should focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains with proteins and fats that play a supporting role.
The real purpose here is to provide your body with easily digestible foods that do not raise blood sugar, and that also satiate your body. It is important not to eat foods that can cause or worsen pancreatitis.
8 Main fruits:
- Cranberries and Cranberries: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 food to promote weight loss, reduce inflammation and promote restful 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, plus plums have been shown to lower cholesterol levels and aid 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 nut 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 improving blood glucose levels and glycemic control.
- Apples:high in fiber, reduces inflammation and aids digestion. It can be used as a live or as a side dish or dessert. For example, ripe apples + cottage cheese (non-fat) provide healthy protein, calcium and fiber.
- Pomegranate:Sweet and crunchy, this super fruit is packed with fiber, potassium and vitamins C and K.
5 Main vegetables:
- Beetroot: Packed with essential nutrients like iron, manganese, copper, potassium and B vitamins. Beetroot is known to improve heart health, brain health and support liver function.
- Broccoli:Just one 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 nutrients that boost immunity, and protect against diabetes.
- Potatoes:Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, copper, vitamin B 6 and manganese. Potatoes are a healthy starch that tastes great.
- Carrots:Beta Carotene - Excellent for immune system and eye health, as well as healthy digestion, being one of the most versatile vegetables on the planet.
6 main 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 the risk of type 2 diabetes by 16 percent. As a side dish, this gluten-free grain is relatively high in calories, so it is recommended to keep a single size.
- Buckwheat:Rich 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 pancakes in the morning, and buckwheat can be added to salads or porridge in the morning.
- Polenta:This thick corn, similar to Southern grinds, is used all over the Mediterranean. Buy only organic polenta, not GMOs.
- Honey:contains a lot of fiber. This dense nutritious 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 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 flour or cereal form, and you can use it to make cereals, pancakes or tortillas.
- Amaranth:Valued by the Aztecs for thousands of years, this grain 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 in weight loss. Use instead of oats, white rice or pasta, and as a thickener for soups.
5 main nuts and seeds:
- Almonds:A distant relative of many stone fruits, simple 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 nutritious nut, walnuts provide omega-3s to support a healthy heart and brain by 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 stay in the middle of a ration, as they are relatively high in fat.
- Pumpkin Seeds:are packed with healthy fats, proteins and fiber. Pumpkin seeds can be eaten separately or added to salads or yogurt.
- Pistachios:Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, it is no wonder that pistachios make up this list. They are known to help lower cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss. Stay at half service due to fat content.
Top 4 Light Protein Sources:
- Fish:Diets usually include fish or seafood at least twice a week. Salmon is associated with healthy cognitive functions, heart health and cancer protection.
- Poultry:Chicken and turkey are excellent sources of protein. Stay in baking - avoid frying to keep fat content within healthy limits. And to aid digestion, consume chicken bone juice, which is naturally rich in collagen and L-glutamine, maintains intestinal integrity by altering the 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 item, 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 help lose weight. weight. Specific beans including lentils contain lipase, a digestive enzyme.
Top 3 Low Fat Dairy Products:
- Yogurt:Choose low-fat or low-fat yogurt without adding sugar or sweetener when dieting for pancreas. Rich in intestinal health probiotics and protein, this dairy product is ideal for breakfast.
- Cottage cheese:Rich in vitamin B12 and rich in calcium, cottage cheese is a great snack, especially when combined with other foods in the pancreatitis diet, such as nuts, seeds and fruits.
- Kefir:Known for its immune-boosting properties and healthy digestive bacteria, this fermented milk product contains protein, calcium and vitamin D.
Foods to avoid:
- Alcohol, tobacco and caffeine;
- Allergens known 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, 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.