Top 10 foods good for the pancreas

The pancreas performs two main functions – produces insulin to control blood sugar levels and enzymes needed to metabolize fats and proteins. The pancreas helps the body break down ingested food more efficiently and absorb nutrients, which are then used by it to sustain life.

In addition, this organ produces important hormones – polypeptides, somatostatin and glucagon. Products for the pancreas described in this article estet-portal.com will help restore and protect this vital organ.

Symptoms of pancreatic disorders

For diseases of the pancreas a number of similar symptoms are characteristic, the main of which are pain and dyspeptic disorders. So, diseases of this organ may indicate:

• pain in the region of the left hypochondrium, which may be encircling or radiate to the back and left shoulder blade;
• the appearance of pain in the above locations after taking fatty, spicy and fried foods, as well as alcohol;
• nausea;
• vomit;
• diarrhea;
• decreased appetite;
• unexplained weight loss.

If possible symptoms of pancreatic dysfunction appear, you should consult a doctor who will determine the source of the problem and diagnose the disease (if any).

An important component of the treatment of pancreatic diseases is diet.

What foods should not be consumed in diseases of the pancreas

The diet recommended for patients with pancreatic diseases varies depending on the type, form and stage of the disease. Therefore, permitted and prohibited foods for the pancreas, as well as their quantity and methods of preparation, are determined by the doctor.

As for foods that should not be consumed if the pancreas is not functioning properly, they usually include:

• fatty foods, including full-fat dairy products;
• alcohol;
• confectionery, sugar, honey, jam;
• fresh bread;
• cabbage;
• smoked dishes;
• beans, etc.

It is important to remember that, for example, in acute pancreatitis, patients are advised to spend several days in fasting mode, and only after that allowed products are gradually introduced into the menu.

Foods useful for the pancreas

For foods that help protect the pancreas from disease, these include:

1. Garlic

Allicin – an antioxidant substance with anti-inflammatory properties, which in the course of studies has demonstrated the ability to prevent the development of pancreatic cancer. The following substances contained in garlic also have a beneficial effect on pancreatic tissue:

• sulphur;
• arginine,
• oligosaccharides;
• flavonoids;
• selenium.

Apart from this, garlic is an excellent product for the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

2. Natural low-fat yogurt

Yogurt, rich in live probiotic cultures, is another pancreas-friendly food. Natural low-fat yoghurts are also extremely beneficial for the health of the digestive system in general, as well as helping to restore the pancreas.

3. Spinach

As an excellent source of iron and B vitamins, spinach may reduce the risk of inflammation and pancreatic cancer. Thanks to MGDG, the growth of cancer cells is suppressed. Spinach also helps control blood sugar levels.

4. Turmeric

This spice has anti-cancer properties and has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, along with blood sugar control and prevention of diabetes.

5. Blueberry

Antioxidant-rich blueberries protect the pancreas from oxidative stress and prevent cancer with pterostilbene.

6. Broccoli

Apigenin, found in broccoli, protects pancreatic tissue from damage. It has also proven to be a great food to protect against oxidative stress and help control type 2 diabetes.

The question of the use of broccoli, as well as other products, in acute pancreatitis must be discussed with a doctor.

7. Red grapes

The powerful antioxidant resveratrol protects pancreatic tissue from free radical damage, reducing the risk of developing pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Resveratrol also promotes apoptosis of cancer cells in the pancreas and prevents damage to blood vessels. The polyphenols found in red grapes improve carbohydrate metabolism and the transport of glucose into cells, which helps control insulin sensitivity.

8. Sweet Potato

Thanks to the beta-carotene in this pancreas-friendly food, sweet potatoes can regulate insulin-producing cells, stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes.

9. Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms are used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including cancer, because this product is rich in anti-inflammatory substances that reduce inflammation of the pancreas and prevent the development of pancreatitis. Beta-glucans and triterpenes reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.

10. Licorice

Anti-inflammatory properties, bile stimulation, anti-diabetic properties and increased insulin sensitivity – main reasons why this product is beneficial for pancreatic health.

Estet-portal.com reminds that the products described above help protect the pancreas from diseases, however, in case of dysfunction of this organ, a specialist consultation is necessary before using any products. The diet for diseases of the pancreas is selected individually, based on the characteristics of the course of the disease.