Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
The pancreas is both an organ and a gland that plays a vital role in exocrine and endocrine functions.
Exocrine functions
Aid in the production of pancreatic juice called enzymes for the breakdown of sugar, fats, and starches.
Endocrine functions
Helps in regulating blood sugar levels by producing insulin – to lower blood sugar levels and glucagon or to raise blood sugar levels.
If the pancreas does not function properly, it can give rise to conditions such as:
- Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune condition that attacks insulin-producing cells
- Type 2 diabetes: The body becomes insulin resistant
- Cystic fibrosis: A genetic condition that affects several organs, including the lungs and the pancreas
- Pancreatic cancer: The condition arises when one or more cells in the pancreas give rise to tumours
- Pancreatitis: A condition in which the pancreatic juice (enzymes) damages the organ itself
- Islet cell tumour: A condition that causes irregular multiplication of hormone-producing cells, giving rise to a benign or cancerous tumour
- Enlarged pancreas: It is a rare condition that arises due to pancreatitis
One of the best ways to minimise the risk of these conditions is by increasing the intake of foods that help enhance the health of the pancreas.
Continue reading to learn about the seven superfoods to make the pancreas healthy and some other benefits that you can attain by having these foods regularly in moderation.
Turmeric
Packed with an active compound called curcumin, turmeric is a beneficial herb that provides a range of benefits, such as keeping the pancreas healthy.
The anti-inflammatory properties of this herb aid in glucose absorption by improving the functioning of cells in the pancreas and reducing insulin resistance.
Having turmeric can also lower the risk of the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Depression
Garlic
Botanically a vegetable, garlic is often used as a herb and spice for its several health benefits such as:
- Boosting immunity
- Controlling blood pressure
- Maintaining cholesterol levels
- Improving bone health
- Preventing Alzheimer’s disease & dementia
This vegetable is also crucial for improving pancreas health as it helps manage blood sugar levels by aiding insulin production.
Regularly having one to two cloves of raw garlic can help keep the pancreas healthy for a prolonged time.
Have garlic with parsley (ajmod) to avoid bad breath.
Spinach
Spinach is enriched with a plethora of nutrients. It helps keep the pancreas healthy by reducing inflammation and nourishing the organ.
Add chopped spinach to a salad or make a delicious curry, you can have this leafy green in several ways.
Some other benefits of spinach include:
- Preventing cancer
- Reducing blood sugar levels
- Aiding weight loss
- Minimising hypertension
Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and more.
These vegetables have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce the risk of tumours and pancreatic cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables also provide several more benefits, including:
- Maintaining weight
- Improving heart health
- Reducing inflammation
Sweet potato
Many fruits and vegetables are extremely beneficial for a number of organs. For instance – walnuts are good for brain health, tomatoes improve heart health, and sweet potatoes support the pancreas.
Sweet potatoes have high antioxidant properties and are rich in several nutrients that help lower the risk of pancreatic cancer. These delicious foods also help control blood sugar levels.
Some other advantages of sweet potatoes include:
- Good for gut health
- Improve vision
- Enhance brain function & immunity
Oregano
Known for its aroma and flavour, oregano is a herb that contains two flavonoids (compounds that are rich in antioxidant properties) termed apigenin and luteolin.
These flavonoids help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer and control the oxidation caused by diabetes. They also play a vital role in protecting the pancreas from any damage.
The following are a few more benefits of consuming oregano:
- Lower risk of viral infections
- Fights bad bacteria
- Reduces inflammation
Dandelion
Dandelion tea is known to remove toxins from the intestine and improve the health of the pancreas.
They are rich in anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce the risk of cancer.
Consuming this beverage can also provide benefits such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Improving liver health
- Aiding digestion
- Minimising the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI)
Final thoughts
The pancreas is an important organ that plays a crucial role in helping you digest your meals and regulate your blood sugar levels.
Fuel this organ with the above-mentioned seven superfoods to ensure its efficient functioning and minimise the risk of several ailments.
Moreover, you should also frequently opt for pancreas screening.
It can provide you with detailed insights into the pancreas health, allowing you to take preventive measures to improve its health.
