This is damaging your pancreas: 6 signs of an inflamed pancreas and the most harmful foods

In this article, we'll explore the crucial role of the pancreas, the signs that it may be in trouble, and what foods you should avoid to protect this essential organ.

We will also discuss the diseases that affect this organ and how to detect pancreatic cancer in its early stages, thus increasing the chances of effective treatment.

Understanding the pancreas: functions and location

It is a fish-shaped gland located at the back of the abdomen, just behind the stomach. It performs two extremely important functions:

1. Digestive Function (Exocrine): Produces enzymes, such as amylase, lipase and protease, which are essential for the digestion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. These enzymes are released into the small intestine to help break down food into smaller molecules, facilitating the absorption of nutrients.
2. Hormonal (Endocrine) Function: It is also responsible for the production of hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin helps to reduce blood glucose levels after a meal, while glucagon works to increase these levels when the body needs more energy, such as during periods of fasting.

Warning signs of a pancreas in distress

You may be wondering: how can I tell if my pancreas is having problems? There are some signs that may indicate that it is not working as it should. Let’s list the main ones:

1. Abdominal Pain: Especially in the upper abdomen, this pain can radiate to the back and is often described as a sharp pain that involves the abdomen. The pain tends to worsen after eating fatty or protein-rich foods.
2. Nausea and Vomiting: When the pancreas is inflamed, it can have difficulty digesting food properly, resulting in nausea and vomiting.
3. Diarrhea and Fatty Stools: Poor fat digestion can cause yellow, oily, and foul-smelling stools. These stools often float rather than sink in the toilet bowl.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss: If your pancreas isn't producing enough digestive enzymes, you may lose weight quickly without even trying.
5. Jaundice: The skin and eyes may turn yellow due to a buildup of bilirubin, which can be caused by a blockage in the bile duct related to pancreatic problems.

Diseases related to the pancreas

It can be affected by several serious conditions, including:

1. Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: In type 1, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, while in type 2, the body develops insulin resistance or is unable to produce the necessary amount of this hormone.
2. Acute Pancreatitis: A sudden, severe inflammation of the pancreas, which can be extremely painful and is usually caused by gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption.
3. Chronic Pancreatitis: A persistent inflammation that leads to permanent scarring of the pancreas, impairing its function over time.
4. Pancreatic Cancer: One of the most aggressive forms of cancer, with a high mortality rate. Early diagnosis is crucial, but is often difficult to achieve.

Warning signs of pancreatic cancer

It is essential to be aware of the signs of cancer in this organ, as detecting it early can save lives. Symptoms include:

1. Jaundice: As mentioned earlier, jaundice is a common sign when cancer blocks the bile duct, causing yellow skin and eyes due to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
2. Abdominal or Back Pain: Pancreatic tumors can cause significant pain, especially when they press on the nerves around the pancreas.
3. Unintentional Weight Loss: Lack of appetite, coupled with poor nutrient absorption and an increase in basal metabolism, can lead to rapid and unexpected weight loss.
4. Nausea and Vomiting: Intensified after meals, they may be a sign of pancreatic cancer.
5. Enlarged Gallbladder or Liver: If the tumor blocks the bile duct, an enlarged gallbladder or liver may occur.
6. Changes in Blood Sugar Levels: New-onset diabetes can occur in some cases when the pancreas can no longer regulate blood glucose properly.

Foods that harm your pancreas

Certain foods can be extremely harmful. These include:

1. Fatty and Fried Foods: Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fast food and reused oils, are especially harmful.
2. Refined sugar: Found in processed foods, soft drinks and industrial juices, excess sugar can cause inflammation in the body and overload the pancreas.
3. Ultra-processed foods: Ready-made foods, snacks and processed meats contain additives that can be harmful.
4. Red Meats: Excessive consumption of red meat increases the risk of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.
5. Alcohol: Even in small amounts, alcohol can inflame the pancreas and cause serious damage over time.

How to protect your pancreas

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect this organ and keep it healthy:

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats in your daily diet.
2. Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Sugar: These two factors are extremely harmful and damaging to the health of this organ.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for several pancreatic diseases.
4. Hydrate Properly: Drinking plenty of water is essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system and pancreas.
5. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: This helps prevent the development of diabetes, which directly affects the pancreas.
6. Practice Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps maintain ideal weight and improves blood circulation, reducing the risk of pancreatic diseases.
7. Avoid Unnecessary Medications: Some medications can overload the pancreas, so only use those prescribed by a doctor.
8. Get Regular Check-ups: Blood tests and abdominal ultrasounds help monitor the health of your pancreas and identify potential problems early.

This organ is essential to our health and deserves our full attention. By adopting healthy habits and paying attention to warning signs, you can ensure that it continues to function properly for many years to come.

If you notice any suspicious symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical help. Taking care of your pancreas is taking care of your life!

Be sure to share with your friends and family. Information is the best tool for preventing disease! See more at I am healthy.

Source and bibliography:
– Differential functions of inflammatory cells in pancreatitis.
– Food-Induced Acute Pancreatitis