Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas and it may be be acute or chronic. Chronic pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas is inflamed for a long period leading to scarring and irreversible damages to the pancreas, according to the UK site NetDoctor. The condition leads to the poor digestion of fats and carbohydrates due to the lack of pancreatic enzymes. Chronic pancreatitis also leads to diabetes due to lack of insulin. Patients with chronic pancreatitis should eat certain types of foods.
High-Calorie and High-Protein Foods
Patients with chronic pancreatitis often lose a lot of weight because of the decreased secretion of digestive enzymes, according to NeDoctor. Pancreatic enzymes are needed in order to break down foods so that nutrients can be absorbed. Poor food digestion leads to the excretion of fats, carbohydrates and proteins in the stool. Patients with chronic pancreatitis should consume high-calorie and high-protein foods in order to gain weight.
Low-Fat and Low-Cholesterol Diet
Chronic pancreatitis patients should consume low-fat foods because they lack enough digestive enzymes to digest fats and oils, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pancreatitis patients who consume fatty foods, such as bacon, hot dogs and fried foods, often have foul smelling fatty stool because the fat in such foods does not get digested.
Fruits and Green Leafy Vegetables
Patients with chronic pancreatitis should consume lots of fruits and vegetables, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fruits and green leafy vegetables provide vitamins and antioxidants that are important in promoting the healing of the inflamed pancreas.
Whole Grain Foods
Chronic pancreatitis patients should consume whole grain foods rich in fiber and vitamins, according to NetDoctor. Whole foods are especially important for pancreatitis patients with symptoms of diabetes because they help regulate blood glucose levels. Examples of whole grain foods include barley, bran, oatmeal, whole grain breads and whole grain cereals.
Pancreatic Enzymes
Patients with chronic pancreatitis are often prescribed pancreatic enzymes to take with meals because the inflamed pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes. The enzymes should be taken with every meal in order to help digest food. Insulin and antidiabetics may also be prescribed for patients with signs and symptoms of diabetes due to chronic pancreas inflammation.
