Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before making dietary changes.
Why Diet Matters in Pancreatitis
The pancreas helps digest fat. When it’s inflamed, high-fat or irritating foods can worsen pain and trigger flare-ups. A carefully planned diet lowers stress on the pancreas, prevents malnutrition, and supports recovery.
Foods to Eat
Fruits & Vegetables – fresh, cooked, or blended
Lean proteins – skinless chicken, turkey, fish, egg whites, tofu, legumes
Low-fat dairy – skim milk, low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese
Whole grains – oats, rice, quinoa, whole-wheat bread/pasta
Healthy oils (in moderation) – small amounts of olive or flaxseed oil
Hydration – water, clear soups, caffeine-free herbal teas
Foods to Avoid
Fried foods, red meat, sausage, bacon
Butter, cream, cheese, full-fat dairy
Pastries, desserts, processed snacks
Alcohol (strictly avoid)
Caffeine (coffee, energy drinks) if it worsens symptoms
Spicy, greasy, or highly processed foods
Portion Guide (per meal)
Food Group Portion Size (Typical) Notes
Protein 3 oz (size of a deck of cards) Lean meats, fish, legumes
Carbs/Grains ½–1 cup cooked Prefer whole grains
Vegetables 1 cup raw or ½ cup cooked Variety, well-cooked if needed
Fruits 1 small piece or ½ cup Avoid fried or canned in syrup
Dairy 1 cup skim/low-fat Lactose-free if sensitive
Fat/Oil 1 tsp Olive, flax, or small amount of MCT
Daily fat target: 30–50 g per day (adjust with medical guidance).
Sample 7-Day Pancreatitis Diet Plan
Day 1
Breakfast: Oatmeal with banana slices + skim milk
Lunch: Grilled chicken, rice, steamed carrots
Dinner: Baked fish, quinoa, green beans
Snack: Apple + low-fat yogurt
Day 2
Breakfast: Scrambled egg whites, whole-grain toast
Lunch: Lentil soup + whole-grain bread
Dinner: Turkey breast, mashed sweet potatoes, zucchini
Snack: Pear slices
Day 3
Breakfast: Smoothie (berries, spinach, almond milk)
Lunch: Brown rice + tofu stir-fry (light olive oil)
Dinner: Baked cod, steamed broccoli, quinoa
Snack: Rice cakes with peanut butter (thin spread)
Day 4
Breakfast: Low-fat cottage cheese + melon
Lunch: Grilled chicken wrap (whole-wheat tortilla)
Dinner: Lentil stew + roasted carrots
Snack: Banana
Day 5
Breakfast: Oats + blueberries + flaxseed
Lunch: Turkey sandwich (whole grain, lettuce, tomato)
Dinner: Steamed salmon + green beans + couscous
Snack: Apple slices
Day 6
Breakfast: Egg-white omelet + spinach
Lunch: Vegetable soup + whole-grain crackers
Dinner: Baked chicken + brown rice + peas
Snack: Low-fat yogurt
Day 7
Breakfast: Smoothie (banana, oats, skim milk)
Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas + cucumbers
Dinner: Steamed tilapia, mashed potatoes, carrots
Snack: Fresh fruit cup
FAQs
Q: Can I drink coffee?
Mild coffee may be tolerated by some, but caffeine can irritate the pancreas. Herbal tea is safer.
Q: Are nuts safe?
Small amounts of unsalted, ground nuts may be tolerated. Limit to 1 tbsp at a time.
Q: What about alcohol in moderation?
No. Alcohol is a leading trigger for pancreatitis flare-ups. Avoid completely.
Q: Do I need pancreatic enzyme supplements?
If you have chronic pancreatitis, your doctor may prescribe PERT (Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy).
References
Cleveland Clinic – Pancreatitis Diet Guide
Healthline – Foods to Eat and Avoid for Pancreatitis
Stanford Health Care – Nutrition After Pancreatitis
Medical News Today – Pancreatitis Diet Recommendations