As a rule of thumb, about 25% of your daily calories should come from fat. Fat contains 9 calories per gram; to find your target daily value in grams, calculate 25% of your daily calories, then divide by 9. For example, 25% of 2500 is 625, and 625 ÷ 9 = 69. 4, or about 70 g. If you’re managing a pancreatic condition, you should consume a fat-free diet if possible. Talk to your doctor about the best way to minimize or eliminate fat in your diet while also getting the nutrients you need. [2] X Research source
When you do eat out, look for healthy items that are low in oil and grease, such as salads, steamed vegetables, or baked chicken or fish. When in doubt, ask your server how the food is prepared. In some restaurants, you may be able to ask for a healthier alternative. For example, ask if foods normally cooked in partially hydrogenated soybean oil can be prepared with olive oil instead.
Eggs and nuts should be eaten in moderation. Try to eat no more than 3 eggs a week, and just a small palmful of nuts daily. If you have a low-protein diet, you will have a harder time digesting and metabolizing harmful substances, such as fat, alcohol, and tobacco. [5] X Research source Learn more about your specific nutritional needs at https://www. myplate. gov/.
Carbohydrates are important for pancreatic health, but some types aren’t good for you. The simple carbohydrates in high-glycemic foods break down into sugar very quickly and easily in your body, causing spikes in your blood sugar. This can overwork your pancreas. About 45% of your daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Carbs contain 4 calories per gram. Find 45% of your total calories, then divide by 4 to calculate your target amount in grams. Suppose you eat 2,000 calories per day; 45% of 2,000 is 900, and 900 ÷ 4 is 225 g. [7] X Research source If you’re not sure how to calculate your carbohydrate intake from each meal, try using an online nutrition calculator.
Read labels, but note that sugar contents listed under nutrition facts may not include all the added sweeteners. Check the ingredients, which are listed by weight. If you see sugar or words like “sucrose,” “glucose,” “dextrose,” or “high-fructose corn syrup” high up on the list, that product contains a lot of sugar. Added sugars make the pancreas do more work, and they don’t provide any nutritional value. Recommended limits for added sugars for adults are 100 to 150 calories, or 24 to 36 grams per day. [9] X Research source
Check your urine to see if you’re dehydrated. If it’s pale yellow, you’re drinking enough water. If it’s dark, infrequent, or comes out in small amounts, you may be dehydrated. Dehydration can overwork the pancreas, and can aggravate or cause pancreatic disorders.
If you have pancreatitis, stick to clear liquids for 1 to 2 days during a flare-up to give your pancreas a break. Clear liquids include water, apple juice, and broth. Stay on the safe side and check with your doctor before fasting during a flare-up. [12] X Research source During a pancreatic flare-up, you may experience symptoms such as sharp abdominal pain and tenderness (especially after eating), nausea and vomiting, a rapid pulse, and fever or chills. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If you’re just starting to exercise, start by walking for 5 to 10 minutes 2 or 3 times per day. Increase the length of time gradually, and slowly add new activities to your routine. Ask your doctor for advice about starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have any medical conditions.
Heavy drinking is a common cause of acute pancreatitis. Continuing to drink, even in moderation, after developing acute pancreatitis can lead to serious complications. To cut down or quit, set limits and stick to them. If necessary, avoid situations that trigger the urge to drink alcohol. In social settings, drink club soda with lemon or lime so you don’t feel out of place. Remind yourself that maintaining your health is more important than drinking. [16] X Research source
Patches, gum, and medication can help you quit smoking or chewing tobacco. To manage cravings, try to keep yourself busy or take up a new hobby. If you’re used to smoking after a meal, go for a walk instead. If you used to smoke a cigarette with your morning coffee, switch to tea. [18] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Stress can aggravate pancreatic disorders and slow down the healing process. [20] X Research source
If you’re overweight, losing 5% to 7% of your starting weight can benefit your pancreas, lower your risk of developing diabetes, or help you manage diabetes if you’ve already been diagnosed. Ask your doctor for advice about losing weight and to recommend healthy weight loss goals. People who are underweight or at a healthy weight can also get pancreatitis. Talk to your doctor if you have any weight concerns or want to find out how your weight might be connected to the health of your pancreas.
Other symptoms of pancreatitis may include bloating, hiccups, indigestion, greasy or yellowish stools, or diarrhea. In the later stages of the disease, you may develop yellowing of the eyes and skin. The symptoms of pancreatitis can mimic those of other conditions, like cirrhosis of the liver. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Diabetes and prediabetes are pancreatic disorders, and are usually diagnosed at routine check-ups. While there are often no obvious signs of diabetes, symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.
Take any medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Don’t stop taking any medication without consulting your doctor. Pancreatic disorders can lead to malnutrition, so your doctor might also recommend vitamin supplements. Many people with pancreatitis become underweight, so weigh yourself every few days to make sure you are maintaining a healthy body weight.
Pancreatitis flare-ups can cause severe pain. Rest and relax during a flare-up, and do your best to distract yourself with music, a movie, or a good book. You can also apply a warm compress to the area for about 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours. If you experience severe symptoms, don’t try to manage them at home. Seek medical attention immediately if your pain becomes so severe that you can’t stay still or find any position that relieves your discomfort. [25] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Recovery depends on the scope of the surgery. After surgery, you may stay in the hospital 1 to 3 weeks. In general, stick to a bland diet just after surgery, and add foods according to your doctor’s instructions. Eat small meals every 3 hours, and take supplemental enzymes and any other medications as directed. [27] X Research source
