The pancreas is the producer of the hormone insulin as well as important digestive enzymes in the upper abdomen. The pancreas is often under considerable strain due to lavish eating and stimulants. This can lead to acute inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Targeted measures help to keep the most important digestive gland in the body healthy. This can be done through enzyme therapy and long-term dietary changes.
Function of the pancreas and bile
Many people probably first think of diabetes when the pancreas is mentioned. In fact, it is here that the vital hormone insulin is produced, which regulates sugar metabolism. But the flat, 18-centimeter-long organ, also known as the pancreas in medical terms, does much more. Every day, it produces about 1.5 liters of enzyme secretion, which is needed primarily for the digestion of fats and proteins. The enzyme secretion enters the duodenum through a glandular duct into which the bile duct also flows. To prevent the glandular tissue from being digested as well, the secretion contains only precursors of the enzymes, which are not activated until they reach the intestine. Here they break down the food components into small molecules that can pass through the intestinal mucosa into the bloodstream. About 98 percent of the glandular tissue produces digestive secretions, while the remaining cells produce the hormone insulin and its counterpart glucagon. These hormone-producing cells are located like small islands in the glandular tissue and are therefore also called islet cells. While the enzymes enter the intestine, the hormones are released directly into the bloodstream.
Common complaint: inflammation of the pancreas
In Germany, about 100,000 people suffer from a disease of the pancreas, mostly acute or chronic inflammation. And the number of patients is increasing. Common causes are our lifestyle habits, eating too much fat and increasing alcohol consumption. More rarely, gallstones or hereditary factors are responsible.
Acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis often becomes noticeable the day after a sumptuous meal. For example, fatty sausages or pancetta and many a meal from the grill are a heavy burden on the pancreas. Often in combination with sugared drinks or alcohol, the pancreas then reports with severe, cramping complaints. Patients with acute pancreatitis report extreme pain that drills through the back or wraps around the entire body like a belt. The discomfort lasts for hours or days and worsens with eating or after drinking alcohol. At the same time, many patients complain of nausea, vomiting or fever. The severe pain usually leads patients directly to the hospital. Here they are initially given painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. To spare the pancreas, vital nutrients are fed via a stomach tube or intravenously. As soon as the inflammation has subsided, the patient can gradually resume eating solid food. In most cases, the symptoms soon disappear with the help of the medication. Surgery may be necessary if the glandular duct is blocked by gallstones. In any case, acute inflammation of the pancreas should be taken seriously, as damage to the tissue may remain, affecting sugar metabolism or digestion in the long term.
Permanent inflammation is dangerous
Permanent inflammation of the pancreas, which often goes unnoticed, is particularly treacherous. The damaged tissue releases enzymes that can also attack neighboring organs long before the first symptoms appear. Some patients experience a dull ache that can last for weeks or even year. Sometimes fever, nausea and bloating also occur. Because digestion is affected, many patients lose weight, although they do not eat less.
Enzymes relieve pressure on the gland
The doctor can determine whether there is actually inflammation of the pancreas by blood and stool tests. Changes can also be detected with ultrasound or computed tomography. An endoscopy shows whether the glandular duct is blocked by gallstones. In addition to painkillers, the patient is usually given pancreatic enzymes to help with digestion and relieve the pancreas.If the insulin-producing cells are affected by the inflammation, the sugar in the body can no longer be sufficiently absorbed into the cells. In this case, diabetes mellitus can develop.
Pancreatitis and diet.
However, there are also preventive measures that can be taken for the pancreas. Medication can be added to enzymes, but the most important thing is lifestyle. Alcohol should be enjoyed in moderation in any case. It is taboo if the gland is already diseased. There is no special pancreas diet, but fats should be used sparingly in any case. A healthy, wholesome diet that includes natural foods helps the pancreas.
