Pancreatitis Dietary Guidelines

Strictly following pancreatitis dietary guidelines is an effective measure in alleviating inflammatory symptoms. In the pancreatitis diet plan, foods rich in fats are kept to minimum; while plant based foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins form the bulk of the daily diet.

Pancreatitis is a medical problem, caused due to inflammation of the pancreas. Based on the duration of manifested symptoms, it can be acute or chronic condition. As you refer to human anatomy, you will find pancreas at the back side of the stomach. Function wise, it is responsible for secreting insulin hormone and digestive enzymes. These enzymes help in digestion of proteins, carbohydrates and fats into simpler substances, which can be readily absorb by the body.

The causes and the after effects of pancreatitis are related to the digestive health. Like for example, excessive alcohol consumption and increased iron in the body are primary reasons for this gland disorder. Coming to the effects of chronic pancreatitis, there is an impairment in the digestion of foods and abnormal levels of sugar in the bloodstream. Taking these factors into consideration, pancreatitis dietary guidelines are purported for patients, who are diagnosed with this medical condition.

Pancreatitis Dietary Guidelines

As the pancreas becomes inflamed, there are two consequences; either the gland loses its ability to produce digestive enzymes, a condition called exocrine failure or there is reduction in insulin production, medically known as endocrine failure. In both the cases resulting pancreas problems negatively affect the normal functioning of the body system. Thus, timely therapeutic intervention is essential to avoid worsening of this health problem. And pancreatitis diet is suggested as a part of the treatment plan. Pancreatitis foods recommendations are discussed below:

Limit Fat Intake

A thumb rule followed in pancreatitis diet plan is to reduce food items that require enzymes secreted by pancreas for digestion. With reference to this, the total fat content in the daily diet should be less than 30 percent. The remaining calorie should come from other nutrient sources i.e. proteins and carbohydrates. To achieve this, one needs to plan the meal menu with reference to the amount of calories yielded by fats.

Add Protein Rich Foods

Even though there is reduced production of enzymes for digesting proteins and carbohydrates, these two nutrients cause minimal pressure to the pancreas. So, including foods that contain proteins and carbohydrates is a way to fulfill body's energy requirements in this situation. Also, incorporate foods that are rich sources of antioxidants, as they help in combating the inflammatory responses. Substituting red meat with chicken surely helps in minimizing this pancreas condition to some extent, as the former contains saturated fats.

Include Plant Based Foods

Incorporating plant based foods that are low in fat content is an easy tip in planning a diet for pancreatitis. Green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits and fruit juices are healthy alternatives for people with pancreatitis condition. Some of them are also rich in proteins and carbohydrates, which are recommended for pancreatitis patients.

Reduce Spicy and Hot foods

Pancreatitis dietary guidelines are recommended to control further inflammation of the gland and if possible, restore the normal function of the pancreas. Hence, limit intake of hot and spicy foods, which otherwise stimulate pancreas inflammation. Also, refrain from caffeine, cheese, butter, sweet desserts and foods that increase gas production in the body.

Stay Away from Alcohol

It is known that alcohol abuse triggers inflammation of the pancreas tissues. The same stimulation is observed with nicotine. The condition will be worse if one continues to have alcoholic beverages or nicotine in an inflamed pancreas. Thus, in order to help restore pancreas function and combat pancreatitis symptoms, refrain from alcohol and tobacco products.

Besides planning chronic pancreatitis diet, serving smaller meals, drinking lots of water and performing exercise are also recommended for prompt results. Recovery from pancreatitis depends on the severity of the condition, therapeutic intervention followed and overall health of the patient. Making dietary changes will definitely help in reducing the bouts of pancreatitis attacks. One can refer to the pancreatitis diet reviews for better understanding of the positive results. I hope, this article on pancreatitis dietary guidelines is useful in planning a healthy meal menu.