Pancreas
The pancreas plays a role in digestion by secreting enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and starches. It also regulates blood sugar levels by releasing the hormones insulin and glucagon into the blood stream.
When the pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin or when insulin receptors no longer respond to the body's need for insulin, the result is diabetes. Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, can result from gallstones. Common symptoms of pancreatitis include nausea, vomiting, and severe upper abdominal pain that radiates through the back. Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when the pancreas can no longer produce enough digestive enzymes to properly digest food.
Beneficial Foods
| Apples | Sour apples stimulate the pancreas. |
| Brussels Sprouts | Provide alkalizing elements that specifically benefit the pancreas. |
| Cucumbers | Provide healing properties for the pancreas. |
| Spinach | Eaten raw or juiced, is healing for the pancreas. |
| Tomatoes | Dramatically reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer. |
Beneficial Nutrients
| Selenium | May help relieve pancreatic insufficiency. |
| Vitamin A | Beta-carotene may help relieve pancreatic insufficiency. |
| Vitamin C | May help relieve pancreatic insufficiency. |
| Vitamin E | May help relieve pancreatic insufficiency. |