8 Foods That Heal Pancreas

We often tend to overlook the body health with external symptoms alone. But, as a health conscious person, it is important to have an eye on the health of our internal organs. People are mostly concerned about the health of heart, kidneys, and lungs, which are basically important and inevitable. But not many are aware of the pancreas, which lies behind the stomach in the abdominal cavity.
The pancreas health is incredibly important to the body. This is because, it performs two major functions: to make insulin for blood sugar level maintenance and to make enzymes for fat and protein digestion. Moreover, the pancreas aids the body in breaking down the foods and absorbing nutrients. Along with insulin production, pancreas also produces other essential hormones such as polypeptides, somatostatin and glucagon. Improper functioning of pancreas gives rise to several health problems, including pancreatitis, diabetes, and even pancreatic cancer.
Proper diet and good lifestyle can help keep your pancreas healthy. There are few foods that heal and protects pancreas naturally.

1. Garlic

Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aids in pancreatic cancer prevention ability. It also contains allicin, a compound which benefits immune enhancement. Garlic has other beneficial nutrients, such as sulfur, oligosaccharides, arginine, flavonoids and selenium, which have positive effects on pancreas. As known, Garlic is highly beneficial to prevent and treat diabetes because of its lipid-lowering properties. This reduction of blood sugar stimulates pancreas for sufficient insulin production.
You can consume 2 or 3 raw garlic cloves everyday on empty stomach.

2. Yogurt

Probiotics are good for pancreas. Probiotic yogurt is important for healthy digestion as it replenishes the healthy bacteria in the gut. Pancreatic health depends on a healthy digestive system. Moreover, yogurt helps treat pancreas related problems. Studies show that intake of yogurt also reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Eating low-fat or fat-free yogurt with active probiotics is helpful to reduce the risk of pancreatic tissues damage.

3. Spinach

Spinach contains iron and vitamin B, which are two essential nutrients for healthy pancreas functioning. Adequate amounts of these two nutrients lessens the chance of pancreas inflammation, and furthermore the risk of cancer. Spinach also has powerful cancer-fighting compound called MGDG (monogalactosyldiacylglycerol). Spinach also benefits to control high glucose levels.
You can consume spinach on a daily basis, adding it to your salads, soups, juices or smoothies.

4. Turmeric

Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties to protect pancreas and prevent inflammation of any kind. It is even good in preventing diabetes and controlling high blood sugar levels. Turmeric also has cancer-fighting properties that prevent pancreatic cancers. The curcumin present in it identifies potential cancer cells and destructs them without damaging healthy body cells. Researches have proven that a turmeric extract known as liposomal curcumin provides an alternative to chemotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancers.
Drinking turmeric milk everyday can be effective for your pancreas health. Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of milk and drink it once each day. If you wish to take a supplement, speak with your doctor first.

5. Red Grapes

Red grapes are rich in resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect pancreas tissues from free-radical damage. Thus, it helps reduce the risk of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. Resveratrol also reduces inflammation and prevents blood vessel damage. The presence of polyphenols in red grapes improves glucose transports and carbohydrate metabolism in the body. It also regulates insulin sensitivity in pancreas. Studies show that polyphenols decrease glycemic and insulin resistance, optimize oxidative stress as well as increase lipid metabolism in the body.
Consume a handful of red grapes daily for good pancreatic health. Keep in mind to eat them with skin, instead of juices.

6. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes support sustained pancreatic health. It contains beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant. Regular consumption of sweet potatoes regulates pancreatic cells functioning and insulin production in the body. It also stabilizes blood sugar levels and lowers the glycemic index. White-skinned sweet potatoes have anti-diabetic properties and improve glucose abnormality and lipid metabolism as it helps reduce insulin resistance.
Eat sweet potatoes instead of sweet potatoes to enjoy better pancreatic health. Also you can add orange-colored fruits and vegetables such as carrots, corn and oranges as they contain beta-carotene that benefits pancreatic health

7. Broccoli

Broccoli, one among the cruciferous family vegetable is highly beneficial for pancreatic health. It contains high sulfur compounds that detoxify body organs. It also is rich in apigenin, a compound that supports pancreatic health. Researches show that apigenin protects the pancreatic tissue against pancreatitis ameliorate the damage caused to the pancreas. Broccoli also reduces cholesterol and oxidative stress in the body, which are favorable for pancreatic health.
It is beneficial to eat broccoli in its raw form or lightly steamed. Thus way, you can retain most of its nutrients.

8. Licorice

Licorice is an ancient herb used as an herbal medicine. This is known to support pancreatic health. Licorice has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pancreatic inflammation. The root also boosts bile production for food digestion and supports glandular functions. Licorice root also has anti-diabetic properties because of a substance called amorfrutin present in it. This substance helps reduce blood sugar levels in the body and improves insulin resistance.
You can take 2 to 3 cups of licorice root tea daily as a supplement.