The pancreas is very important to our body and many body functions depend on it. This organ is involved in two vital functions of the body: digestive and hormonal. It produces enzymes involved in the digestion of food and hormones that regulate the metabolic processes in the body.
Any damage to the pancreas leads to serious consequences and long-term, sometimes lifelong treatment. What foods should be included in your diet to avoid endangering this critical organ?
In the following article, have a look at some products that are good for the pancreas:
Broccoli
Apigenin contained in broccoli protects the pancreatic tissue from pathogenic effects. To get the maximum amount of healthy nutrients, try to use broccoli raw or lightly steamed.
Spinach
Spinach is an excellent choice for maintaining pancreatic health. According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, a diet including spinach and other vegetables provides reliable protection against pancreatic cancer.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics that strengthen the immune system and improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. The most beneficial for the pancreas are yogurts with minimal fat content, which do not include flavorings, colorings or flavor enhancers.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin neutralizes hydrochloric acid, has a soft and tender texture, does not contain much fiber. It also contains carotene, potassium, group B vitamins, magnesium, copper, iron and pectins. This vegetable is ideal for feeding patients with pancreatitis.
Sweet potato
Reminiscent of the pancreas in shape, the sweet potato protects it, ensures a slow flow of sugar into the blood stream and relieves the digestive system of unnecessary stress.
Jerusalem artichoke (sunroot)
Jerusalem artichoke is also called earth apple or sunroot. This root crop looks similar to ginger root and tastes like sweet potatoes. The aerial part of the earth apple grows up to 2–4 meters and looks like a sunflower.
Its use helps to normalize metabolic processes and relieve inflammation in the pancreas. In addition, the juice of this vegetable prevents the development of diabetes mellitus and also prevents the development of atherosclerosis, which is a common phenomenon in pancreatitis.
Blueberry
Blueberries are indispensable for people with diabetes. Blueberry leaf tea, like fresh fruit, lowers blood sugar and stimulates the pancreas. By using blueberries as part of various herbal mixtures, you can get rid of the foci of inflammation in the pancreas, as well as detox the liver and improve the secretion of bile. In case of exacerbation of pancreatitis, blueberries are consumed only in crushed (mashed, grinded) form and after heat treatment.
Buckwheat
Given that with pancreatic disease, doctors recommend a significant reduction in the portion of carbohydrates in food, buckwheat dishes will take their rightful place in the patient's diet. At the same time, buckwheat is not devoid of vegetable fiber, which contributes to normal digestion, cleansing the intestines and removing toxins. Buckwheat is considered one of the most popular products that help in the treatment of pancreatitis. It is allowed from the fifth day after the start of the diet, when the pain symptoms are reduced. Buckwheat porridge is prepared by thoroughly mashing it after boiling. You should eat such a dish without oil, salt or sugar.
Red grapes
Red grapes are an excellent source of resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that rids cells of free radicals. Resveratrol strengthens blood vessels and reduces inflammation. This substance also reduces cell death (apoptosis) in pancreatic cancer.
Licorice root
This medicinal herb has long been used for many health problems, including pancreatic problems. Licorice root decoction is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce the pain and swelling that often accompanies pancreatitis.
Drinking three or more cups of licorice root tea daily or taking supplements is recommended. You should know that in some people, when taking licorice medicine, blood pressure rises. Consult a doctor before taking it or having your blood pressure measured regularly.
Nutritionists believe that a moderate approach to nutrition helps to maintain pancreatic health. The diet should include lean meat and fish, olive oil, cereals, vegetables and fruit, stewed fruit and jelly, dried white bread, dairy products. Excluded from the diet should be alcohol, coffee, smoked meats, sweets and rolls.
The pancreas is extremely important for the life of the whole organism. Therefore, if you feel pain in this area, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. After all, it is better to prevent the disease than to treat it long and exhaustingly.
