7 Foods That Heal Pancreas & Stimulate Digestive Enzymes

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The pancreas, which is located in the abdomen, tucked behind the stomach, plays two vital roles; it is an organ of the digestive system and of the endocrine system. Pancreatic enzymes help break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates.  The pancreatic enzymes that the pancreas produces are helping your body to digest, absorb and assimilate different healthy foods you eat.

Pancreas Disease Symptoms

-Pain in the upper abdomen
-Loss of appetite
-Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
-Back pain
-Bloating
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Digestive upsets

7 Foods That Heal Pancreas & Stimulate Digestive Enzymes

Garlic

Garlic is an allium species vegetable; other members of this family include leeks, shallots, onions, chives, and fenugreek. These foods contain sulfur, arginine, selenium, oligosaccharides, and flavonoids that have been shown to prevent pancreatic cancer.

Oatmeal

People who’re suffering from pancreatitis may experience loss of weight as there are not enough enzymes produced by the pancreas to assist in digestion. Oatmeal is a good source of dietary fiber, consume it along with lean proteins can prevent weight loss and diabetes. Other whole grains such as brown rice, buckwheat and barley are also good picks.

Cherries

Cherries are a naturally rich source of antioxidants and perillyl alcohol, which is a compound proven to help prevent pancreatic cancer. When purchasing cherries, you should go organic when possible, in order to avoid being exposed to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Broccoli

Broccoli’s flavonoid apigenin protects pancreatic tissue.[5] To receive all of the vital nutrients from broccoli, eat it raw or only lightly steamed. Cooking can remove a vast majority of the nutrients.

Tofu

A major pancreatitis cause is that the bloodstream contains high levels of fat. Therefore, meat should be eliminated from the diet in order to avoid future attacks. Tofu is a good substitute for the necessary protein.

Mushrooms

Magic mushrooms indeed! According to a study conducted by Indiana University’s Cancer Research Laboratory at Methodist Research Institute, in Indianapolis, a traditional Asian remedy made from the pine-bearing Poria cocos mushroom blocked the MMP gene, which is linked to the development of pancreatic cancer.

Cabbage

A regular consumption of cabbage may help protect susceptible individuals against pancreatic cancer. Cabbage is loaded with vitamin C, but it also contains vitamin B6 and folate. Cabbage produces glucosinolates which is anti-carcinogenic compounds that have been shown to limit the amount of DNA damage and cell mutation as well as to inhibit the processes that prevent programmed cell death and promote uncontrolled cell growth.

Sources included:

[1] https://www.sharecare.com/health/endocrine-system/what-foods-keep-pancreas-healthy

[2] http://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/5-diet-keys/

[3] http://dailyhealthpost.com/8-foods-that-are-good-for-your-pancreas/

[4] http://woman.thenest.com/healthiest-foods-pancreas-2612.html

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Phyllis Bentley
I have 12 years’ experience in the medical industry. As a freelance writer, I have written a number of articles which have been published in highly read publications. I have a strong knowledge base in a range of medical and wellness topics and in the business of health care.
Specialities in Family health; autoimmune diseases; mental health; diabetes, cancer; fitness and nutrition.