Healthy Diet For Pancreas Disease

The pancreas is a bean-shaped gland located below your stomach. This gland is responsible for producing several hormones, particularly insulin. Diseases, such as pancreatitis, can cause inflammation of the pancreas and limit its ability to produce enzymes. Although diet cannot cure pancreatic disease, following certain dietary habits may help reduce inflammation and reduce the effects of pancreatic disorders on your body. Check with your physician before changing your diet to prevent or treat pancreatic disease.

Vitamin C--Rich Foods

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that may help prevent free radical molecules in your body from attacking the cells of your pancreas, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." By inhibiting the oxidation of free radicals, vitamin C may help reduce inflammation and prevent cellular damage. Vitamin C may also boost immune system function, reducing inflammation and damage caused by viral and bacterial infections. Boost your vitamin C intake by consuming foods such as kiwi fruit, grapefruit, apples, broccoli, oranges, spinach and papayas.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation of the pancreas, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They may also help improve immunity to prevent infection-related pancreatic damage. Fish oil supplements are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids; however, you can also obtain these essential fatty acids by consuming foods such as tuna, salmon, mackerel and walnuts.

Vitamin E--Rich Foods

Like vitamin C, vitamin E may offer antioxidant properties, according to Balch. Vitamin E may improve blood circulation, increasing the availability of nutrients and oxygen necessary for pancreatic health. This vitamin is also necessary for the production of new tissues -- it may help your body repair damage caused by infection and free radical activity. Vitamin E is found in foods such as avocados, eggs, lentils, whole-grain breads and pastas, hazelnuts, oatmeal, tofu and sweet potatoes.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods may increase inflammation and decrease pancreatic function -- avoiding these foods may help you reduce the effects of pancreatic disease. Trans fats, which are found in margarine, shortening, deep-fried foods and baked goods, may irritate your pancreas, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Avoid whole-milk products, red meats and dark-meat poultry -- the saturated fats in these foods may worsen pancreatic disease. Also, limit or eliminate foods and beverages containing caffeine and alcohol.