Pancreas plays an indispensable role in the digestive process by secreting digestive enzymes that help to break down the nutrients in our food. It also secretes hormones which are involved in blood sugar regulation (insulin and glucagon). Pancreatitis refers to chronic inflammation of the pancreas which could lead to diarrhea, weakness and weight loss.
Foods that contribute to pancreatitis
According to Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, chief nutritionist, Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru, “The more processed foods we consume, the more problematic it becomes for the pancreas to handle it which ultimately leads to pancreatitis.”
Apart from the swelling induced pain, the functionality of the organ is also impaired. “High-fat or greasy foods cause excess release of enzymes which flares up the condition,” explains Bengaluru-based Nutritionist Vasundhara Agrawal.
Foods to eat and avoid for managing pancreatitis
Agrawal explains, a person with pancreatitis should follow a low-fat diet to manage the condition. She recommends including easy-to-digest foods (like rice, banana, etc.) and fluid-based items in the diet until the affected person feels better.
When it comes to fruits, Delnaaz Tabriz Chanduwadia, HOD, Nutrition and Dietetics, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, recommends whole fruits rather than foods containing added sugars as those with pancreatitis could be at a higher risk of diabetes.
She explains that it is wise to avoid foods made from refined flour.
“Cereals like ragi, wheat, millets or rice should be consumed in their natural wholesome form,” advices Dr Rohatgi.
Experts suggest that since most of the animal fats are difficult to digest, it is best to avoid ghee, butter and cheese.
Although cold-pressed nut oils (soyabean, olive, sunflower and coconut oil) are easy to digest, none of them should be highly processed or double-refined.
According to Chanduwadia, research has shown that fat from whole foods is well tolerated. “These fats sources contain medium chain triglycerides (MCT) which make digestion easier,” she explains.
In addition, omega-3 fatty acids found in nut oils are important for those with pancreatitis as these contain anti-inflammatory properties. Nuts, seeds and avocado are good sources of healthy fat.
Fibre intake should be spaced out in the day. “ Consuming too much fibre at once slows down the digestion of the meal and could lead to malabsorption of nutrients and enzymes,” says Chanduwadia.
How to eat?
People with pancreatitis are advised to have smaller meals spread throughout the day instead of having large portions at once and following a longer fasting period.
Chanduwadia recommends anything between six to eight small, frequent meals in a day which do not put excessive load on the pancreas for digestion.
How to beat sugar cravings?
Consuming too much sugar can lead to an increase in the amount of triglycerides which in turn may increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. Dr Rohatgi explains that sugar cravings generally happen when we don’t consume enough proteins. “Once your protein requirements are met, the cravings come down drastically. For this reason, it is advisable to include proteins like curds, toned milk, legumes, daal cheelas (pulse pancakes) along with carbohydrates in your diet,” she explains. Dates or raisins can be consumed to satiate the sweet tooth.
“A small piece of occasional dark chocolate or fruits can be a good sugar replacement,” suggests Agrawal.
Multivitamins
Multivitamins are sometimes prescribed if an individual is experiencing weakness as he/she is unable to consume much food due to pancreatitis. “Trace minerals such as zinc, selenium and magnesium are important,” explains Chanduwadia. Along with Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, C and E are also to be supplemented to complete the antioxidant chain. Vitamin B complex can also be consumed as a supplement.
Takeaways
- Chronic pancreatitis could severely affect the secretion of digestive enzymes and release of endocrine hormones.
- Consuming a low-fat diet and hard to digest food items in moderation is generally prescribed for people with this condition.
- People with pancreatitis should avoid food items like red meats, fried foods, fries, potato chips, butter, desserts and sugary beverages.
