The pancreas is a small gland located in the abdominal region of the body. It is more powerful than you can imagine. Every day, it produces enzymes that play an important role in digesting the food you eat. At the same time, insulin is produced, which keeps the sugar level in the body at a normal level.
In short, the pancreas is important. Any harm leads to the cessation of its activity, which prevents the body from receiving proper nutrition, since there is no enzyme to digest food. Therefore, it is very important to keep this small gland healthy.
One way to do this is to eat foods that help keep the pancreas healthy. Here are eight you can incorporate into your diet.
- Lemon/Kiwi
Sour fruits such as lemons and kiwis improve the production of digestive enzymes in the pancreas, keeping the gland healthy and smooth digestion. - Licorice root
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice root is used to reduce pain and swelling associated with the pancreas. The Chinese consider it a traditional remedy and use it to combat any disease that affects the glands.
- Garlic
Although people may avoid using garlic because it removes body odor and bad breath, no one can doubt its effectiveness in keeping the pancreas healthy. Garlic improves the production of insulin in the pancreas, thereby keeping the body’s sugar levels in a normal range and helping to prevent any lifestyle-related diseases. - Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cabbage are considered powerful foods for a healthy pancreas because of their high nutritional value. - Spinach
Spinach is rich in iron and is an excellent food choice for a healthy pancreas. You can eat a healthy salad or choose a dish that contains spinach and garlic. Try to include it in your daily diet and discover its health benefits.
- Low-fat protein
Cottage cheese, tofu, and soy are the best sources of lean protein. In order to keep the pancreas healthy, these proteins stimulate the pancreas, and because of its low fat content, it does not put too much pressure on the pancreas during digestion.
- Yogurt
Yogurt with active cultures is an excellent choice for a healthy and safe pancreas. Choose low-fat foods like Greek yogurt—the culture protects the glands, while the low-fat protein content provides the glands with the energy they need. - Turmeric
When the pancreas becomes inflamed beyond its natural size, it can cause pain, discomfort, and sometimes serious health problems. Turmeric is an excellent remedy for such conditions as it has anti-inflammatory properties. It not only relieves inflammation and pain, but also reduces the size of gallstones that cause pancreatic disorders.
As you have read, the pancreas is a VIP in the list of organs in the human body. Keep healthy by including the above foods in your diet and get regular check-ups with your endocrinologist. They will provide you with the best ways to keep your glands and digestion smooth, efficient and healthy.