DR. INDU ARORA

The pancreas is both an exocrine and endocrine gland. As an exocrine gland, it is an integral part of the digestive system as it secretes pancreatic juice, which contains digestive enzymes to break down carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. As an endocrine gland, it produces hormones like insulin and glucagon, which regulate glucose metabolism.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

• Abdominal pain which worsens after eating heavy, fatty meals
• Indigestion, nausea, vomiting and gases
• Fever and chills
• Low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and shallow breathing
• Sweating and weakness
• Mild signs of jaundice
• Unreasonable chronic weight loss
• Diarrhea and/or oily stools

Abdominal Pain, Indigestion, Gases and Nausea

Diet: Intake of foods rich in Vitamin E, Vitamin B12, magnesium and antioxidants is advised for people with pancreatitis. Avoid eating heavy, rich, creamy, fried, dry, spicy, and frozen foods. Also, avoid the intake of beans, peas, garlic, raw onions and corn. Eat food items which are light and easy to digest – like vegetable broth, lentil soup, steam cooked vegetables, zucchini, squash, coconut water, and chamomile tea.

Supplements:

• One can take Ayurvedic supplements like Turmeric (antiinflammatory), Amalaki (full of antioxidants), Bael (soothing and healing).
• An alternate suggestion would be the application of Clarified butter, or ghee, in the belly button after every meal (prepare a concoction of one tablespoon of Clarified butter heated with two pinches of asafetida and stored).
• Chew one-fourth teaspoon of Ajwain seeds (Bishop’s weed) with one cup of warm water after meals to help in digestion.
• Drink warm water 30 minutes before each meal.

Mudra Therapy

Practice Samaan mudra and Vayu mudra for immediate relief in indigestion and abdominal pain.