Pancreatitis Diet

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Pancreatitis is described as an inflammatory process with pancreatic edema, fat necrosis or hemorrhage. It occurs most often in middle age. The three types of pancreatitis are acute, chronic and hereditary. Pancreatitis is usually caused by alcoholism, biliary tract disease, viral infection (like mumps, hepatitis,), abscesses, medications (steroids, oral contraceptives, thiazide diuretics), gallstones, metablic disorders (Hyperparathyroidism, hyperlipidemia), increased fat levels in blood, pancreatic cancer.

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If  there is left upper quadrant pain which radiates to the back, difficulty of breathing, nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness with muscle guarding then most likely it is pancreatitis. Two signs that are unique to pancreatitis is positive Grey Turner’s spot (ecchymoses on flanks) and positive Cullen’s sign (ecchymoses of periumbilical area).

Diagnostic tests used in determining pancreatitis are serum amylase and lipase, urinary amylase, blood sugar, lipid levels which are all increased in pancreatitis. Serum Calcium is decreased. Usually there is pancreas enlargement in CT Scan results.

What is the ideal diet for pancreatitis? It is usually a high-carbohydrate, high-protein, low fat diet. First, only eat small frequent meals instead of three large meals. Second, try to avoid caffeine products, they stimulate the pancreas. Third, eliminate alcohol and nicotine, this can further burden the pancreas. Fourth, stop consuming foods that are spicy as well concentrated sweets. Fifth, green leafy vegetables are good source of antioxidants which is good for the pancreas. Sixth, substitute fruit juices to your alcohol consumption. Last, try eating white meat (fish, chicken) instead of red meat (beef, pork).

How vital is the diet for pancreatitis in the treatment of pancreatitis? The answer?It is very important, we must remember that the pancreas  has two important functions, Exocrine, wherein the pancreas produces digestive enzymes which are necessary for the breakdown of sugars and fats. Endocrine, which produces hormones like insulins. Without the proper functioning of the pancreas, it can lead to pancreatitis and diabetes mellitus.

Improvement in our diet and lifestyle is not an easy step to take, but the ideal diet for pancreatitis is a must since our pancreas is not functioning well enough to carry on its task. We must remember in starting our diet for pancreatitis, we should avoid foods high in fat, sugar. You can never go wrong with vegetables and fruits. Also, quitting vices like alcohol and nicotine is difficult but we do not want to cause further damage to the pancreas. We must add to our list as well to follow our doctor’s advice, they can help further in avoiding and treating pacreatitis.