Excess fat in the pancreas has been linked to type 2 diabetes and pancreatitis. This pathology is defined in some cases as non-alcoholic pancreatic steatosis. To reduce the level of fat in the pancreas, the patient must lose weight quickly and significantly. You can do this through a very low calorie diet or with gastric bypass surgery. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, ask your doctor for help in developing a weight loss program and improving pancreatic function.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Radically Limit Calorie Intake
Step 1. See your doctor
By significantly reducing your calorie intake, you can lose the weight needed to reduce the amount of fat in your pancreas. However, you should only follow such a strict diet under medical supervision. Ask your doctor if a very low calorie diet is right for you.
Step 2. Make a goal of losing 10-15 kg
In a recent study, 9 out of 10 people who lost 15 kg experienced remission of their type 2 diabetes. Determine with your doctor how much weight you need to lose.
Step 3. Eat 825–850 calories per day
Develop a meal plan based on your doctor's advice that includes eating meal replacements, such as smoothies or bars, and a few small balanced meals, so you don't go over the right amount of calories.
- Depending on how much weight you need to lose, you may need to follow this diet for 3-5 months.
- Diets that are so low in calories are not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Step 4. Don't lose motivation
Such an extreme diet is difficult to follow consistently. You will have to work hard to find the strength to stick to your new diet. Here are some ideas on how to stay on the right track:
- Find a support group (online or in person).
- Indulge in non-food rewards (like a new shirt) when you hit a small goal.
- Record your progress every week.
Step 5. Gradually reintroduce food over 2-8 weeks
When you reach your goal, it is important not to resume your normal diet right away. Ask your doctor for advice on developing a meal plan that allows you to gradually reintroduce your normal portions.
Eating too much in a short time can cause stomach pain, constipation or other digestive disorders
Step 6. Start exercising every day once you have reached a healthy weight
This diet involves reducing calorie intake without increasing the level of physical activity. However, once you have achieved your goal, it will be important to include some exercise in your daily routine. You can try:
- Do some walks
- Practice yoga
- Do aquagym
Method 2 of 2: Consider Gastric Bypass Surgery
Step 1. Talk to your doctor
Gastric bypasses limit the amount of food your body can tolerate. This surgery can lead to rapid weight loss, thereby reducing the level of fat in the pancreas. However, gastric bypasses are not without risks, in the short and long term. Discuss this solution with your doctor.
- Short-term risks include: severe bleeding, infections, adverse reactions to anesthesia, blood clots, breathing problems, leaks in the gastrointestinal system and, in rare cases, death.
- Long-term risks include: intestinal obstructions, dumping syndrome (or emptying, which causes diarrhea, nausea and vomiting), stones, hernias, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), gastric perforations, stomach ulcers, vomiting and, in rare cases, death.
Step 2. Find out if you meet the initial requirements
To be considered for gastric bypass, you must have a body mass index (BMI) of over 40, or at least 35 and have a weight-related condition (such as type 2 diabetes).
In some cases, patients with a BMI of 34 or less are also considered if their weight causes serious health problems
Step 3. Undergo comprehensive medical tests
Before your doctor can approve the surgery, you need to undergo a series of thorough medical tests and, in some cases, even a psychological evaluation. This procedure is followed to ensure that patients are emotionally and physically ready to endure the surgery.
Step 4. Follow the preoperative instructions
Based on your specific health condition, your doctor can give you different arrangements before surgery. Some examples are:
- Limit diet and drink consumption;
- Discontinue some drug therapies;
- Stop smoking;
- Start exercising.
Step 5. Undergo gastric bypass surgery
This is done under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in your abdomen and insert laparoscopic instruments. At that point, he will place an inflatable band around the top of his stomach.
In most cases, you spend a night in the hospital
Step 6. Follow all post-operative directions
Immediately after the surgery, you will not be able to eat for two days to allow your stomach to heal. Later you will start ingesting liquids, then you will move on to pureed foods and finally to solid ones. You will need to follow a strict diet for at least 12 weeks.
