To choose the best diet for pancreatitis, you should select foods that are low in fat, but high in protein, carbohydrates, and antioxidants. You should also eliminate alcohol and tobacco products. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that is primarily caused by improper nutrition, excessive alcohol intake, or gallstones. A pancreatitis diet is a key step in healing the condition and preventing any future attacks.
Selecting low fat foods is one of the most important aspects in choosing a proper diet for pancreatitis. Since, in many cases, foods high in fat have contributed to the condition, you will want to identify food sources that possess significantly lower levels of fat content. Experts suggest a diet for pancreatitis should contain only 30% fat. Ideal foods in this category include lean meats, tofu, and low-fat butter and margarine substitutes.
Protein- and carbohydrate-rich foods are another essential method of improving nutrition for pancreatitis patients. In addition to lean meats and tofu, both of which have high amounts of protein, you can also select foods like green, leafy vegetables — especially spinach — and soy products. Carbohydrates are vital to a diet for pancreatitis as well; whole grains are a perfect source of carbohydrate-rich foods.
Antioxidants play a major role in ridding the body of harmful toxins. When you choose foods with great amounts of antioxidants, you are ensuring your pancreas is clearing itself of harmful chemicals and fluids. Foods with high antioxidant levels include blueberries, cherries, grapes, and tomatoes.
Nothing can endanger the pancreas more than alcohol. Alcohol products contain high amounts of sugars that overwork the organ and can lead to another attack. A healthy diet for pancreatitis entails the reduction or complete elimination of alcohol consumption. Red wine may be enjoyed in moderation as it is high in antioxidants, but all other alcohol should be avoided. Similarly, nicotine stimulates the entire system, including the pancreas, and usage should be curtailed altogether.
The right food selection is one of the most important natural treatments for pancreatitis. Other pancreatitis treatments of this variety include taking a multivitamin every day, as well as a supplement of omega-3 fatty acids, both of which strengthen the pancreas. You might also want to consider some more alternative means of treatment, such as herbs; herbal sources that aid pancreatitis treatment include green tea, Indian gooseberry, holy basil, licorice root, ginger root, and grape seed extract.