Pancreatitis Diet + 5 Tips for Prevention & Management

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Pancreatitis diet - Dr. Axe

About 200,000 people are admitted to the hospital for pancreatitis each year in the United States, and the number continues to rise. This is a very serious and painful condition that requires careful medical observation, but a pancreatitis diet and lifestyle changes can help prevent and treat this unpleasant condition.


While the majority of people recover well from acute pancreatitis, nearly 25 percent of those diagnosed will experience recurrent episodes, leading the disease to become chronic. Chronic pancreatitis puts you at a significantly increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, diabetes, liver failure and other potentially life-threatening illnesses.


Not only is following a diet for pancreatitis necessary to help recover, but it is essential to help prevent this disease from entering the chronic phase. There are some individuals who are more prone to developing pancreatitis, including those with a history of substance abuse, use of certain prescription drugs, unhealthy eating and genetics.


Light to moderate exercise, yoga and meditation can help manage the symptoms, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco is absolutely necessary for recovery. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis, the first step is adopting a healthy diet focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.


Keep reading to find out how to follow a pancreatitis diet to treat and prevent this condition.


What Is Pancreatitis?


The pancreas is the central organ where essential enzymes are produced for digestion and hormones are produced that help the body process sugar. The pancreas can malfunction, causing the digestive enzymes to activate while still in the pancreas instead of in the digestive tract.


This can lead to inflammation and pancreatitis. In both acute and chronic patients, scar tissue may form, causing the pancreas to not perform optimally or even fail.


Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas resulting in swelling, pain and poor digestion. Serious complications are possible, particularly if the pancreas becomes infected.


Chronic pancreatitis is marked by persistent inflammation of the pancreas, causing permanent damage to this vital organ. Chronic pancreatitis is incurable, and certain life-threatening complications can occur, including liver failure, diabetes and pancreatic cancer.


Pancreatitis diet: understanding pancreatitis - Dr. Axe

Symptoms


When you have pancreatitis, you may experience any of the following symptoms. For some, symptoms may be mild, but for others, symptoms may be debilitating.


Acute Pancreatitis Symptoms:



  • Pain in the upper abdominal area

  • Pain that radiates from the upper abdomen to the back or shoulders

  • Pain that worsens after eating

  • Abdomen is tender to the touch

  • Elevated temperature or fever

  • Rapid pulse

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting


Chronic Pancreatitis Symptoms:



  • Pain in the upper abdomen that persists or that may come and go

  • Weight loss, often dramatic, without trying

  • Stools that are oily and smelly


Causes and Risk Factors


There are several possible causes for pancreatitis, many of which are linked to diet and overall wellness. However, there are times where pancreatitis is the result of a physical injury, surgery or other medical condition.


Recognized risk factors include:



Dangers


Left untreated, pancreatitis can cause serious complications and even death. Seeking emergency medical intervention is necessary when symptoms present.



  • Pseudocysts accumulate fluid and debris in pockets. If they rupture, they cause infection and internal bleeding.

  • Inflammation in the pancreas makes it vulnerable to bacteria and infection. Surgery may be required in some cases.

  • Kidney failure may arise, requiring dialysis.

  • Breathing problems may develop as chemical changes in the body can affect oxygen levels.

  • Diabetes may occur as insulin-producing cells are damaged.

  • Malnutrition is fairly common as the pancreas produces fewer enzymes, making it difficult to break down and process essential nutrients.

  • Pancreatic cancer is associated with long-term inflammation of the pancreas often due to chronic pancreatitis.


Pancreatitis diet: acute vs. chronic pancreatitis - Dr. Axe

What to Do If You Suspect Pancreatitis


DO:



  • If symptoms are severe, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

  • If symptoms are mild or moderate, make an appointment with your physician.

  • Eat small, light meals that are low in fat.


DON’T:



  • Discount the symptoms as just discomfort.

  • Consume a high-fat meal.

  • Drink alcohol or smoke.


Pancreatitis Diet


After a diagnosis of acute or chronic pancreatitis, nutrition must be the first priority. The main objective of a pancreatitis diet is to prevent malnutrition, nutritional deficiencies, and maintain optimal blood sugar levels while safeguarding against kidney and liver problems, pancreatic cancer, and worsening symptoms.

Columbia University's Pancreas Center advises following a nutrient-dense diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, while steering clear of greasy fried foods and alcohol. Their program includes regular blood tests to identify any nutrient deficiencies and suggests supplements as needed.

The diet recommended by Columbia University closely resembles the Mediterranean diet, which has been practiced in Greece, Italy, and Spain for generations. Numerous studies have shown that this eating pattern can be beneficial in various ways.

Although the traditional Mediterranean diet may be too high in fats for some individuals with pancreatitis, it can be modified to suit their needs. It's crucial to listen to your body and identify the foods that make you feel your best.

The majority of each meal should consist of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with proteins and fats playing a supporting role. Experts recommend aiming for specific daily and weekly servings of different food groups to ensure a balanced diet.

The ultimate goal is to provide the body with easily digestible foods that don't cause blood sugar spikes while keeping you satisfied. It's essential to address any nutritional deficiencies caused by pancreatitis through dietary choices.

Remember, these guidelines are just a starting point. If you have pancreatitis and know that you are allergic or sensitive to certain foods on this list, it's best to avoid them. Enjoy carrots in your pancreatitis diet whether raw, cooked, or juiced.

Research shows that whole grains should be encouraged in a pancreatic diet. Here are the top 6 whole grains to include:

1. Brown rice
2. Buckwheat
3. Polenta
4. Millet
5. Teff
6. Amaranth

Include these top 6 whole grains in your diet to promote digestive health and overall well-being.

Additionally, here are the top 5 nuts and seeds to incorporate into your pancreatitis diet:

1. Almonds
2. Walnuts
3. Sunflower seeds
4. Pumpkin seeds
5. Pistachios

These nuts and seeds are packed with essential nutrients and can aid in weight loss and inflammation control.

For lean protein sources, consider the following top 4 options:

1. Wild-caught fish
2. Poultry
3. Eggs
4. Legumes

These protein sources are low in fat and high in essential nutrients for a healthy pancreatitis diet.

Lastly, include these top 3 low-fat dairy options in your diet:

1. Greek yogurt
2. Cottage cheese
3. Kefir

These dairy options provide probiotics, protein, and essential vitamins for digestive health.

Remember to avoid certain foods such as alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, fried foods, white flour products, sugar, and trans fatty acids to prevent pancreatitis recurrence.

In addition to dietary changes, consider making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating small meals, staying hydrated, practicing relaxation techniques, and incorporating yoga into your routine to prevent pancreatitis recurrence. A recent study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology has found that practicing yoga can significantly enhance the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic pancreatitis. This research highlights the positive impact of yoga on managing the symptoms and improving the well-being of those with this condition. Incorporating yoga into their daily routine can provide individuals with a holistic approach to managing chronic pancreatitis and promoting a better quality of life.

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