You probably have some idea of your pancreas and maybe even know its function, but if we asked you to point it out, would you know where to find it?
For those of you who are not as sure about the pancreas, let us give you a quick synopsis.
First off, the pancreas is located behind your stomach, closer to the beginning of the small intestine. The pancreas, although often forgotten, is still very important to the digestive system.
Its exocrine cells help produce enzymes which help digest food.
Another function is to release hormones like insulin and glucagon into the blood which help maintain blood sugar levels.
In the case of diabetics, the pancreas attempts to pump out more insulin because the cells do not use it up. This causes for sugar to build in the bloodstream.
Because the pancreas holds a vital role in the human body, it’s important to keep it healthy and the easiest way to do so is through diet.
Food for a healthy pancreas
There are many health concerns which affect the pancreas, like diabetes, pancreatitis and even pancreas cancer.
Consuming foods for a healthy pancreas can ensure it continues to perform its duties and that you stay healthy overall.
Here are foods to eat for a healthy pancreas that can easily be incorporated into your diet.
- Blueberries and cherries – good for their antioxidants
- Broccoli – contains cancer-preventing chemicals
- Garlic – provides essential nutrients
- Red grapes – contain antioxidants
- Red reishi mushrooms – help reduce inflammation
- Spinach – good source of vitamins and minerals
- Sweet potatoes – contain cancer-preventing nutrients
- Tofu – source of low-fat protein
- Tomato vegetable soup – contains antioxidants
- Yogurt – source of probiotics
Another important note about having a pancreas healthy diet is to keep it low-fat. Try not to consumer over 20 grams of fat a day, and a sole meal should not contain more than 10 grams. Furthermore, for a healthy pancreas, minimize alcohol and consume more water in order to stay hydrated. Dehydration has been linked to pancreas flares.
By knowing which foods can benefit your pancreas, you will be able to make different combinations and create healthy pancreas recipes to enjoy on a regular basis.
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