An Australian nutritionist, A.J. McMichael, once remarked that Europeans who moved to Australia were diagnosed less often with stomach or pancreas cancer than those who remained in their European country of origin. Because Mr. McMichael is a nutritionist, this leads us to make a connection to the diet of the healthy individuals as compared to those who were stricken with cancer.

What is the role of the pancreas?

The primary function of the pancreas is to reserve nutrients and preserve energy. It is divided into two independent sections. The endocrine section secretes many important hormones (one of which is insulin) directly into the blood stream. The exocrine section is responsible for producing a wide range of digestive enzymes which aid in the digestive process.

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One of the best things we can do for our pancreas is to watch our weight.

Maintaining a healthy weight is easier if we eat a balanced diet including several portions of fruits and vegetables daily, preferably those that are fresh or frozen.

Foods to include in our fight against pancreatic cancer:

• Broccoli – This vegetable contains two very important compounds to aid in the war against cancer; indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and sulforaphane. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin c, fiber, and beta-carotene. When purchasing broccoli, look for a darker coloring as the lighter broccoli is losing its nutrients. Broccoli sprouts are also an excellent source of nutrients and protective properties. They are great to toss on a salad or a sandwich.

• Chili peppers – Cancer cells died in mice that were fed capsaicin in a study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh. (Pancreatic cancer cells had been previously implanted in the mice.)

• Parsnips – In learning the role our pancreas plays in digestion it becomes clear that fiber is essential in promoting good pancreas health. Parsnips contain “insoluble” fiber, which means they help to move the digestive process along moving bile out of the system quicker. The less time that bile has to sit in the system the less damage that can be caused to cells.

Recommended herbs and alternative medicine for pancreas health:

• Licorice – unless you have hypertension

• Stevia – use as a sweetener avoiding the use of sugar, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils

• Gymnema sylvestre – use to regulate insulin and blood sugar levels

• Bitter melon

• Agrimony

• Cinnamon

• Chromium picolinate with trace minerals

• Whole grains, seeds and nuts

• Blueberry tea

• Dandelion tea

Please consult with your physician.

Before undertaking any type of diet regiment or treatment please consult your physician and advise him or her of any medications and supplements that you are taking or plan on taking. Your journey to better health is better taken with the assistance of a trained medical professional.

References:

Gastro-Intestinal Health by Steven R. Peikin, M.D.

Natural Healing Wisdom & Know-How compiled by Amy Rost

The Doctors Book of Food Remedies by the editors of Prevention

The Healing Foods by Patricia Hausman and Judith Benn Hurley