The pancreas is an endocrine and exocrine gland. There are two main functions of the pancreas. It releases digestive enzymes and hormones. Digestive enzymes are also known as pancreatic juice, are required for proper digestion of fats, protein, and carbohydrates while hormones are required to regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin and glucagon are two hormones released by the pancreatic gland.
Insulin lowers your blood glucose level when blood sugar levels are higher than normal and glucagon increases blood glucose when you feel low.
There are two types of pancreatic cancer. When Cancerous growth affects the pancreatic duct it is known as ductal carcinoma and when it affects the endocrine function of the pancreas as it inhibits synthesis and release of hormones and enzymes this is known as islets cancer.
what causes pancreatic cancer? Low physical activity, poor diet, smoking and heavy drinking are the main causes of pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic Cancer can affect your digestive system and it’ll affect your food choices. You should choose foods that are easily digestible and are nutrient-dense rather than energy-dense foods. This may be difficult for you to renew your breakfast lunch and dinner menu but it will best support your health. Consult your dietitian for a customized plan for you that will help you to achieve a healthy lifestyle goal with reducing complications of pancreatic cancer.
What should you eat?
While you are suffering from pancreatic cancer. It will affect the ability of your digestive system and blood glucose regulation. Choose foods high in nutrients and antioxidants avoid energy-dense foods as you have to manage your weight and also keep yourself hydrated.
Fruits and vegetables
According to the recommendations of World Cancer Research, your food should consist of five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Always consume cooked vegetables as your digestive system can not tolerate or digest raw vegetables.
The following list of fruits and vegetables are rich in Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and fiber
- Kale
- Berries
- citrus fruits
- leafy greens vegetables spinach and cabbage
- Blueberries
- Broccoli
- Oranges
- Spinach
Lean protein food sources
Add Lean protein to your diet. It will boost your immunity and protect you from many diseases and also protein required for the synthesis of new body cells and repair of old cells.
Following are lean protein sources:
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Fish
- Nuts
High fiber foods
Avoid foods that have high carbohydrates content. Replace high carbohydrates content with high fiber foods. As fiber will not be digested by our body system it will help you to regulate your blood sugar levels. If you eat high carb foods your sugar level may spike which may increase the risk of diabetes along with Pancreatic Cancer.
Following foods are rich in fiber:
- Oatmeal
- Potatoes
- Lentils
- Beans
- Quinoa
- Brown rice
Great tea
Green tea is best to drink and avoid coffee. Green tea is known for its anti-cancer properties as it has polyphenols that prevent cancer from growing.
Healthy fats
Eat foods that are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Fats and lipids provide energy and regulate body temperature.
Avoid saturated fats as they may cause an increase in weight and heart diseases.
- Nuts
- Avocado
- Olive oil
