Can I eat ice cream after being discharged from the hospital for acute pancreatitis?
Disease description:
I previously had pancreatitis, and although I have been discharged from the hospital, I still need to follow dietary restrictions. May I ask if it is okay to eat ice cream after being discharged following an episode of acute pancreatitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Cold drinks and high-fat foods, such as ice cream, are generally not recommended for patients immediately after discharge. Patients with acute pancreatitis need to pay special attention to their diet after discharge to avoid reactivating pancreatitis.
Ice cream contains high levels of cream fat, and the sugar in ice cream is refined sugar. Excessive intake may increase the burden on the pancreas, stimulate increased secretion of pancreatic fluid, which is very detrimental for patients with pancreatitis.
Ice cream is a cold food, typically around 0°C, which is a drastic contrast to the body's normal temperature of 37°C. This temperature difference can significantly stimulate the gastrointestinal tract, possibly causing contraction of gastrointestinal blood vessels and reduced secretion of digestive fluids, which is不利于 the patient's recovery.
In the early recovery phase of acute pancreatitis, patients should follow a low-fat, easily digestible diet, avoiding greasy, spicy, alcoholic, and cold foods. When the condition stabilizes and the physician approves a gradual return to a normal diet, low-fat versions of cold beverages may be cautiously introduced in moderation.
