The pancreas is a gland that lies behind and
slightly below the stomach. It has a head, a tail and a body and
each part produces specialised chemicals. Some cells produce hormones
and these are found scattered around the entire gland. Some produce
insulin which is necessary for moving sugars into cells for energy;
others assist with fatty acids that are vital for overall health.
Problems here cause diabetes which is fully discussed on the link
with dietary recommendations. Other cells secrete glucagon. Combined
with thyroxine from the thyroid gland, and adrenaline and cortisol
from the adrenal glands, this converts stored forms of energy
in the liver and the muscles to glucose, thus raising the blood
sugar. Obviously this intricate process is dependent also on a
well-functioning thyroid gland and adrenal glands for the “energy
partnership” to be effective.
But the pancreas produces enzymes as well as
hormones and these vital enzymes have a major role in the digestion
of food after it leaves the stomach. The pancreas is mainly concerned
with secreting digestive enzymes in order to break down protein,
carbohydrates and fats present in the duodenum (the first part
of the small intestine). Because the fluid it produces is alkaline,
it also effectively neutralises the acids issuing from the stomach,
creating the right environment for the enzymes to work. The health
of the pancreas relies upon a well-functioning stomach, spleen,
liver and gallbladder.
Pancreatic insufficiency is becoming common.
Many contemporary lifestyles cause havoc with digestion, and the
pancreas can be affected as part of this. Food is often eaten
in a rushed and stressful atmosphere and may be of poor nutritional
value. We are not designed to eat in this manner.
Nutritional advice
•Refer to the section on digestive system foods, using predominantly
neutral and astringent flavours. Hot spices may be too taxing
if there is poor digestive function, although gentler spices such
as ginger, cinnamon and turmeric (when used raw) can be beneficial.
•The use of bitter and sour flavours is paramount as this
will stimulate the release of vital digestive enzymes from the
pancreas.
•Many seaweeds help to normalise blood sugar and at the
same time offer gentle thyroid support and natural iodine.
•A major pancreatic food is garlic that can help to balance
the amount of sugar in the blood, partly by stimulating the pancreas
to produce sufficient insulin. You can easily update your knowledge
about the positive benefits of this food by reading Jill Davies'
book “Garlic” which is also available as a free online
read.
•Cinnamon is wonderful to support weakened digestion and
low blood sugar.
•Poor digestive function from a weakened pancreas often
goes hand in hand with low or high blood sugar levels. Sugars
are generally discouraged, but the plant stevia helps to balance
blood sugar and safely stimulates the pancreas, and can be used
as a natural sweetener.
•Fenugreek leaf and sweet root vegetables like yams can
be helpful; they combine well and are generally available from
Asian greengrocers.
•Also superb is bitter gourd – an Asian vegetable
much used for supporting the pancreas. It is an acquired taste,
however! Ask your local Asian grocer.
•Kiwi is the only fruit that really aids pancreatic function.
•An overtaxed digestive system is better served with small
and regular meals. Eat little and often (six meals a day) as this
helps to support pancreatic function and may stabilise blood sugar
levels. Be sure to include some protein-rich food with each meal
or snack in order to stabilise sugar levels.
•Supporting liver health with gentle detoxification and
cleansing will in turn greatly assist pancreatic function.
•Excessive alcohol harms the pancreas and liver and can
give rise to pancreatitis.
•Simple dressings such as Lemon & Artichoke Concentrate
will aid all digestive processes and energise the system in general.
Lemon juice is generally cleansing and can also be used on its
own as a dressing, or added to drinking water.
•Superfood Plus contains plant enzymes that can support
digestion, as well as all essential nutrients in a form that is
easy to digest and does not tax the system.
•Almost all herbs and the gentler spices will be useful
to support digestion and pancreatic function.
Natural healing
•Poor digestion, low blood sugar and stress can combine
to make you feel sluggish and fatigued. Hot & cold showers
will encourage better circulation and delivery of oxygen, vital
for regulating blood sugar levels.
•Food is meant to be eaten slowly and with discrimination,
tasting and savouring flavours; it is a time for sharing and gratitude
and relaxation. If your mealtimes never feel like this then start
an examination of your habits and commit to tiny changes.
•Sit at a table to eat your meals rather than in front of
the television or at your desk!
•Rest for 10 minutes after a meal, and also before if you
feel stressed.
•Love nutritious food that will love you back, rather than
food that you know will rob you of your health, beauty and vitality.
•Additionally take plenty of exercise. Yoga (and other body
movement therapies) will ensure that the pancreas and other digestive
organs are gently moved and stimulated to work better and remain
in a healthier state.
•Detoxing will help, especially the liver and bowel. We
have products that can help you with this.
