Acute pancreatitis refers to the sudden inflammation of your pancreas -- an organ on the right side of your abdomen that secretes digestive enzymes and hormones. While genetics and certain diseases may trigger acute pancreatitis, the most common causes are alcohol abuse and alcoholism, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. If your condition is severe, you may require hospitalization where you'll receive fluids and nutrients intravenously. Otherwise, certain foods can support your recovery and help prevent future symptoms.
Fluids
Acute pancreatitis may cause fluid loss through excessive sweating and vomiting. To prevent or alleviate dehydration, maintaining proper fluid intake is important. MayoClinic.com recommends keeping a glass or bottle of water nearby during your recovery as a reminder to continue drinking. Additional sources of fluids include low-fat cow's or soy milk, herbal tea, broth-based soups, bullion, gelatin and frozen juice bars. Avoid high-fat milk and creamy soups, which are high in saturated fat and may worsen inflammation, and caffeinated beverages, which may interfere with rest and sleep.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish provide valuable amounts of protein, which promotes tissue repair and strength for recovery, and healthy fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that people with pancreatitis consume omega-3 fats regularly for improved immune system function and reduced inflammation. Cold-water fish also provide nutritious alternatives to high-fat meats, which may exacerbate inflammation. Fish particularly high in omega-3 fat concentration include salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut, mackerel and sardines. For heightened benefits, prepare fish using low-fat cooking methods such as baking, broiling, steaming and grilling with non-stick cooking spray.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contribute rich amounts of antioxidants -- nutrients that increase your body's ability to fend off and heal from infections and disease. MayoClinic.com recommends a diet based upon fruits and vegetables during pancreatitis recovery. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, plums, kiwi, cantaloupe, tomatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, carrots, winter squash and sweet potatoes. Fresh fruits, pure juices and smoothies also promote hydration. If your appetite is low, you may find warm vegetable soup more appealing than solid foods.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain all nutritious components of the grain. As a result, they digest slower and provide longer-lasting energy and blood sugar balance than refined grains, such as white flour. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends cutting back on refined breads, pasta and sweets and emphasizing vitamin B-rich foods, such as whole grains, as useful dietary steps when faced with pancreatitis. Nutritious whole grain foods include 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, whole wheat pasta, steel-cut oats, brown rice, wild rice, air-popped popcorn, pearled barley and quinoa.
Member Comments