Your pancreas is a complex organ that has two primary functions: First, it has an exocrine function that produces enzymes to digest food. Additionally, your pancreas has an endocrine function, producing hormones, such as insulin, to help your body process glucose and amino acids. If your pancreas's exocrine function does not work properly, you cannot digest and absorb nutrients properly; you can also develop diabetes. Through diet modification, you help improve the functioning of your pancreas. You should, however, speak with a medical professional before changing your diet. Also, if you suspect any pancreas malfunction in your body, you should consult with a medical professional.
Diet
Your pancreas benefits when you eat certain foods, and also benefits when you avoid certain types of unhealthy foods. You should eliminate processed foods rich in simple carbohydrates, hydrogenated fats and artificial preservatives, flavors and colors from your diet. When replacing manufactured foods in your diet with whole foods, you should gradually introduce the whole foods into your diet to avoid shocking your system.
Vegetables
Vegetables rich in nutrients that can benefit your pancreas function include Brussels sprouts, garlic, cauliflower, cabbage, dry mustard, nuts, onions peas, Swiss chard, horseradish, dried beans, watercress and grains. Additionally, green leafy vegetables contain myrtillin, an ingredient that lowers sugar levels in your body and provides fibers that help your digestive system stay regular and evacuate waste. Decreasing your sugar levels prevents your endocrine system from overworking supporting your pancreas.
Fiber
Foods rich in fiber also support and improve your pancreas function. Fiber slows the release of sugar into your blood stream. Additionally, fiber can lower cholesterol levels in your body, help remove toxins from your body and help to keep your digestive system regular. Good sources of dietary fiber include grains, whole wheat breads, cereals, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables.
Pancreatic Symptoms
Symptoms of pancreatic disorders include a yellowing in your skin and eyes, loss of appetite, water retention or bloating, nausea, vomiting, pain in your upper abdomen and foul smelling, fatty feces. If you experience these symptoms, you should speak with a medical professional and determine if you have a specific medical condition that is effecting your pancreas.
References
- "Diseases of the Pancreas and Biliary Tract (Fast Facts)"; John P. Neoptolemos and Manoop S., M.D. Bhutani; 2006
- "The Pancreas: An Integrated Textbook of Basic Science, Medicine, and Surgery (Beger, The Pancreas)"; Hans-Gunther Beger and et al; 2008
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel; 2002
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