Pancreatitis Diet Menu

Pancreatitis is a painful condition characterized by infection or inflammation of the pancreas. A suitable pancreatitis diet menu can help keep the condition under control. Located in the upper abdomen, behind the stomach and very close to the duodenum, the pancreas is one of the gland organs in the human body. It is about six inches long and shaped like a leaf. This gland organ is a part of the digestive system as well as the endocrine system.The primary role of pancreas is to secrete hormones such as insulin, somatostatin and glucagon and certain digestive enzymes that are necessary for the process of digestion.

Several factors can cause inflammation of the pancreas resulting in pancreatitis. There are several types of pancreatitis, acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis, being the two most common types. Acute pancreatitis is characterized by a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that occurs over a short period of time. The digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas become active before reaching the digestive system, that is, in the pancreas itself. This causes damage to the pancreas and can lead to several other pancreas problems. Chronic pancreatitis is a gradual destruction of the pancreas and its surrounding tissues. Chronic pancreatitis does not heal or improve and can worsen with time. Damage caused to the pancreas affects its function and can cause several other health complications. People diagnosed with pancreatitis need to make certain changes in their diet and lifestyle to prevent flare ups. Here is a pancreatitis diet menu that you can follow to keep the condition under control. Take a look...

Pancreatitis Foods Menu

Pancreatitis, irrespective of the type, produces similar symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, chills, fever, weakness, weight loss, fatty stools, diarrhea and mild jaundice are some of the symptoms of pancreatitis. This is mainly because of the reduced ability of pancreas to produce sufficient amounts of enzymes needed for digestion of fats. Hence, a typical pancreatitis diet plan should consist of foods that are low in fats but high in carbs to balance the nutrition. Here is how you could plan your pancreatitis nutrition menu.

Reduce Fat Intake
The most important thing is to limit your fat intake. The inflamed pancreas is unable to secrete digestive enzymes required for fat digestion and hence it is better to reduce the consumption of fats through your diet. You should try to include foods rich in carbs and proteins to fulfill the daily calorie intake.

Increase Consumption of Carbs and Proteins
As I said earlier, you should consume foods that are rich in carbs and proteins as these foods reduce the work pressure of the pancreas. Increase the intake of green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, that will provide the essential nutrients and speed up the healing process of pancreas. Try to include lean meats such as chicken, turkey and lean fish, soy milk, tofu, beans and yogurt that are rich in protein and low in fats. Stay away from processed and packaged foods.

Drink Plenty of Water
Water is the best natural cure for most health conditions. People suffering with pancreatitis become dehydrated very soon and hence consumption of ample amounts of water throughout the day is extremely important. The total fluid intake should range between two and three liters daily. Fresh fruits juices, broths and soups can be consumed throughout the day to fulfill the daily fluid requirement.

Say 'No' to Hot and Spicy Food
It is very important to avoid consumption of hot and spicy foods in order to prevent further inflammation of the pancreas. They stimulate inflammation of the pancreas and result in delaying the healing process.

This was all about pancreatitis diet menu. It is advisable that you avoid consumption of alcohol as well as beverages that contain caffeine. I hope you found these pancreatitis dietary guidelines useful! However, it is better to consult a qualified health care professional to plan a diet menu that is suitable for you! Take care!