What foods are OK to eat with pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and swollen. This can be caused by gallstones, alcohol use, high triglycerides, some medications, infections, trauma, or even surgery on the pancreas. Pancreatitis ranges in severity from mild to life-threatening. Mild cases often resolve on their own with rest and fasting. More severe cases require hospitalization for pain management, fluids, and nutrition. No matter the severity, an acute pancreatitis attack typically means avoiding eating solid foods for a few days to give the pancreas a chance to rest and recover. Once you are able to tolerate food again, there are some important dietary changes to make while recovering from pancreatitis and to help prevent future attacks.

Table of Contents

What foods should I avoid with pancreatitis?

Certain foods are known to irritate the pancreas and potentially trigger an attack of pancreatitis. Foods to avoid include:

Alcohol – Alcohol irritates the pancreas and is a major cause of pancreatitis. All alcohol should be avoided.

Fried foods – High fat foods like fried chicken, french fries, fried fish, doughnuts, pastries, etc. These are difficult to digest and strain the pancreas.
Fatty cuts of meat – Fatty beef, pork, dark meat poultry with skin, bacon, sausage, cold cuts, and ribs are high in saturated fat.
Whole dairy products – Whole milk, cream, butter, full fat cheese, sour cream, ice cream, and full fat yogurt.

Greasy, fast, and processed foods – Chips, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, snack cakes, cookies, donuts, etc.
Caffeinated drinks – Coffee, energy drinks, sodas.
Acidic juices – Orange juice, grapefruit juice, pineapple juice, tomato juice.

Carbonated beverages
Spicy foods – Hot sauces, chili, tacos, curries, pepper.

What foods are recommended for pancreatitis?

There are many healthy, pancreas-friendly foods you can enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced pancreatitis diet:

Lean proteins – Skinless chicken breast, turkey, fish, shellfish, eggs, low-fat dairy, tofu.
Whole grains – Oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, whole grain bread.
Fruits – Bananas, apples, grapes, melons, berries, citrus fruits are usually tolerated.

Cooked vegetables – Spinach, kale, carrots, broccoli, potatoes, sweet potatoes, winter squashes.
Legumes – Lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, black beans.
Healthy fats – Olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, nuts, seeds.

Herbs, spices, vinegar – Turmeric, ginger, garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, balsamic vinegar.
Beverages – Water, herbal tea, vegetable juice, bone broth, electrolyte drinks.

How do I transition to eating after acute pancreatitis?

If you’ve had an acute attack of pancreatitis that required not eating for a few days, it’s important to slowly and gradually reintroduce food. Here are some tips for getting back to eating after pancreatitis:

Start with clear liquids – Try water, broth, gelatin, popsicles, apple juice.
Move to full liquids – Try smoothies, milk, yogurt, cream soups, protein shakes.
Introduce soft, bland foods – Oatmeal, pudding, applesauce, mashed potatoes, noodles.

Add in lean proteins – Soft scrambled eggs, flaky fish, ground turkey, cottage cheese.
Gradually reintroduce fruits, vegetables, whole grains – Cooked carrots, steamed spinach, bananas, rice.
Avoid fat, spice, alcohol, caffeine – Stick with bland, low-fat, easy to digest options.

Eat small, frequent meals – 5-6 small meals instead of 3 large ones.
Chew foods very thoroughly – This helps digestion.
Stay hydrated – Sip water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks throughout the day.

Take pancreatic enzyme supplements – If prescribed by your doctor to aid digestion.

Keep portions small and listen to your body. Stop eating if you start to feel abdominal pain, nausea, bloating or other discomfort. Report these symptoms to your doctor. With time, you can gradually add back in more foods.

Sample Meal Plan for Pancreatitis

Here is a sample one day meal plan with pancreatitis friendly foods:

Meal	Foods
Breakfast	Oatmeal cooked in water or almond milk. Topped with bananas and almonds.
Snack	Hard boiled egg. Grapes.
Lunch	Turkey sandwich on whole wheat with lettuce, tomato. Carrot sticks.
Snack	Low-fat Greek yogurt with blueberries.
Dinner	Baked cod. Quinoa. Steamed broccoli.
Snack	Apple with nut butter.

Tips for Following a Pancreatitis Diet

Here are some helpful tips for transitioning to and staying with a pancreatitis-friendly diet:

Work with a registered dietitian knowledgeable about pancreatitis diets.
Read labels carefully and avoid foods high in fat, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar.

Measure portions to stay within fat and calorie limits.
Cook foods by baking, broiling, grilling, poaching – avoid frying.
Choose leaner cuts of meat and remove skin from poultry.

Limit oils and fats. Measure small amounts for cooking.
Avoid commercially baked goods, fast foods, and convenience snacks.
Make meals and snacks from whole food ingredients.

Drink adequate fluids, at least 64 ounces water daily.
Take a multivitamin and any supplements recommended by your doctor.
Get regular follow up and reassess diet needs as health improves.

What if I accidentally eat a problem food?

If you have chronic pancreatitis, it’s common to unintentionally eat a food that irritates your pancreas. Here’s what to do if this happens:

Don’t panic. One slip up won’t necessarily trigger an attack.
Drink extra fluids to help dilute the irritant and flush it from your system.

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you have mild pain.
Call your doctor if symptoms persist or get severe.
Return to your normal, pancreatitis-friendly diet.

Try to determine what ingredient was problematic so you can better avoid it.
Learn from the experience but don’t be too hard on yourself.

Following a pancreatitis diet takes diligence but gets easier with practice. Be patient and compassionate with yourself through the ups and downs. Work closely with your healthcare team for ongoing guidance and support.

Are nutritional supplements helpful?

Nutritional supplements can be very beneficial for people with pancreatitis, especially to correct any deficiencies. Some supplements to consider include:

Multivitamin – To fill any gaps in vitamin intake.
Calcium citrate – To improve bone health.

Vitamin D3 – Needed for calcium absorption.
Digestive enzymes – Taken with meals to improve nutrient breakdown and absorption.
Probiotics – To replenish healthy gut bacteria.

Zinc – Boosts immune health.
Antioxidants – Vitamin C, Vitamin E, selenium. Reduce inflammation.

Check with your doctor before taking any new supplements, especially in high doses. Therapeutic doses higher than the recommended daily amounts may be prescribed in some cases.

What about pancreatitis in children?

Here are some tips for following a pancreatitis diet for a child:

Work closely with a pediatric GI specialist and registered dietitian.
Focus on providing adequate calories for growth and development.

Supplement with pediatric multivitamin and enzymes as needed.
Offer small, frequent meals and nutrient-dense snacks.
Avoid having “forbidden” foods in the house.

Be a good role model by following the diet yourself.
Involve child in reading labels and meal planning.
Offer favorite fruits and veggies prepared in healthy ways.

Limit sweets, fried foods, and junk foods.
Substitute lower fat dairy products and leaner meats.
Cater school lunches or provide written diet instructions.

Work with therapists if child has anxiety about food or diet.

Growing children with pancreatitis need understanding, encouragement, and support from family to thrive on a special diet. Make it a family affair by having everyone eat healthy.

What are some healthy pancreatitis breakfast ideas?

Starting the day off right is important. Here are some healthy, pancreas-friendly breakfast ideas:

Oatmeal topped with walnuts and berries
Egg white omelet with veggies
Whole wheat toast with natural peanut butter

Greek yogurt parfait with granola and fruit
Cottage cheese with melon slices
Smoothie with banana, spinach, almond milk

Whole grain cereal with almond milk
Avocado toast on whole grain bread
Scrambled tofu with peppers and onions

Overnight chia pudding with nuts and coconut

Aim for at least 15-20g of protein in the morning to help you feel full and energized.

What foods provide protein on a pancreatitis diet?

Getting adequate protein is important for healing after pancreatitis. Some good protein sources to include are:

Eggs and Egg whites
Chicken and turkey without skin
Fish and shellfish like salmon, tuna, shrimp

Tofu, tempeh and soy products
Low-fat dairy products like milk, Greek yogurt, cheese
Beans and lentils

Nuts and seeds
Nut butters like almond or peanut butter

Aim for about 20-30g protein per meal. Spread protein intake throughout the day rather than loading it all at once meal.

What are some healthy snack options?

Planning ahead for healthy snacks is key to prevent grabbing problem foods when hunger hits. Some good snack ideas include:

Fresh fruits like apples, berries, banana, melon
Vegetables with hummus, guacamole, or nut butter

Hard boiled eggs
Low-fat string cheese or Greek yogurt
Trail mix made with nuts, seeds, dried fruit

Whole grain crackers with nut butter
Protein shake or smoothie
Apple sauce or individual fruit cup

Edamame in the pods

Pair carbohydrates with protein or fat to help stabilize blood sugar and ward off hunger.

Can I drink alcohol again after pancreatitis?

Alcohol is one of the leading causes of pancreatitis. Many experts recommend avoiding alcohol completely after being diagnosed with pancreatitis. However, small amounts may be tolerated by some people. Here are some things to consider:

Talk to your doctor about your personal risks.
If you do drink, have no more than 1 serving per day max.
Stick to clear liquor like vodka mixed with water.

Avoid beer and wine, which are higher in carbohydrates.
Always drink alcohol with food, not on an empty stomach.
Keep hydrated with water to dilute alcohol’s effects.

Monitor symptoms closely and stop drinking if issues arise.
Avoid extended periods of heavy alcohol use.
Consider stopping alcohol use if you’ve had multiple bouts of pancreatitis.

It’s generally recommended to err on the side of caution and abstain from alcohol after being diagnosed with pancreatitis. Be honest with yourself about your risks and reasons for drinking.

Conclusion

Following an appropriate pancreatitis diet is crucial for both recovering from an acute attack and preventing future attacks. Focus on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. Avoid greasy, fried foods, processed foods, and alcohol. Reintroduce foods slowly after illness and avoid portions that cause discomfort. Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps. Staying hydrated and getting adequate rest also supports healing. Work closely with your healthcare team to find the diet and lifestyle plan that keeps your pancreatitis in remission and allows you to thrive.