Get To Know Your Pancreas
The pancreas is located deep in the abdomen sandwiched between the stomach and the spine.
It is because it is so deeply situated that it is not palpable making it very hard to diagnose it’s state of health.
Most tumors are not detected until they grow large enough to interfere with the functioning of the pancreas.
The pancreas is a vital part of the digestion process and an important controller of blood sugar levels.
The exocrine function helps in digestion and the endocrine function regulates blood sugar.
The pancreas produces enzymes from the exocrine glands important to digestion. When food enters the stomach, pancreatic juices are released through the Pancreatic Duct that joins up with the Common Bile duct from the liver.
The combination of enzymes from the pancreas and the bile from the liver are what digest fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Much of this digestion takes place in the duodenum that is the first segment of the small intestines.
The endocrine component consists of cells that create and release important hormones directly into the blood stream. Two of the main pancreatic hormones released are insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels, and glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels.
Also produced in the pancreas is Gastrin that aids digestion in the stomach by stimulating the acid producing cells of the stomach to produce digestive acids.
Caring for our pancreas is directly linked to the overall health of the body.
Too much alcohol is one common factor that affects the health and wellbeing of the pancreas.
Another factor are Gallstones. Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder and as they migrate down the common bile duct they can also clog the Pancreatic Duct.
High levels of triglycerides in the blood as well high levels of calcium can contribute to the blockage of the pancreatic flow of enzymes.
The pancreas is sensitive to viral infections, bacterial infections, and hereditary diseases that all can be linked to pancreatic damage.
Healthy foods for the pancreas include kale, swiss chard, endive, spinach, asparagus, apples, buckwheat, fennel, blueberries, cranberries, and arugula.
Drinking an amble supple of water daily is also very important.
D is an important vitamin for a healthy pancreas.
Aloe Vera juice can revitalize damaged cells.
Including a piece of fresh ginger with lunch and dinner helps pancreatic function.
Avoid combining sweet food with meals. As the sugar ferments it creates alcohol and alcohol is (as was mentioned) a leading factor in pancreatic problems.*
Eating slowly, watching food combinations, chewing thoroughly, smaller meals, and being relaxed all contribute to a healthier pancreas.
You might be noticing a trend here as the newsletters are repeating many of the same components for a healthier life. What aids in the health of one organ is many times the same formula for other parts of the body.
For example the simple morning Liver Flush of a tablespoon of olive oil, juice of a lemon, and water is also a remedy for the pancreas.
And again stress is a leading contributor to pancreatic problems.
A lack of digestive enzymes from the pancreas are being directly linked to Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and MS.
For some taking a pancreatic enzyme with meals can be very helpful.
Some more food for thought!
Together Our Hands Are Joined To Heal One Another…
Alexander Gardener
The Lymph Guy
thelymphguy.com
thelymphguy@gmail.com
*This is very important. Even if you do not drink alcohol you might be making alcohol in your system with the foods and the combinations of foods you are eating. You might be damaging your pancreas without even realizing it. Be aware of the sugar content in foods and condiments, as well food combining. Remember mixing fruit with a meal can create an environment ripe for fermentation with alcohol as a byproduct.
