The Relationship Between Diabetes and the Pancreas

Understanding the Relationship Between Diabetes and the Pancreas: An Ayurvedic Perspective

The pancreas plays a central role in the development and progression of diabetes. This organ, located behind the stomach, is responsible for producing insulin—a hormone critical for regulating blood sugar levels (Smith, 2020). Dysfunction of the pancreas can lead to the hallmark symptoms of diabetes, such as elevated blood sugar, insulin resistance, and impaired metabolism (Doe, 2019).

Ayurveda offers a unique perspective on the pancreas and diabetes, linking the condition to imbalances in the Kapha dosha, weakened Agni (digestive fire), and toxin accumulation (Ama) (Sharma & Patel, 2018). At the Diabetes Reversal Clinic, under the expert guidance of Dr. Soumya Hullanavar, we provide a holistic approach to addressing diabetes by targeting the root cause and restoring balance to the body’s systems

The Role of the Pancreas in Diabetes

1. Insulin Production

• The pancreas contains beta cells in the islets of Langerhans that produce insulin (Johnson, 2020).
• Insulin helps glucose from the bloodstream enter cells to be used as energy or stored for later use.
• In diabetes:
  • Type 1 Diabetes: The immune system attacks and destroys beta cells, leading to insulin deficiency.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin production becomes inadequate or cells become resistant to insulin’s effects (Smith, 2020).

2. Glucagon Regulation

• Alpha cells in the pancreas produce glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels by signaling the liver to release stored glucose (Doe, 2019).
• In diabetes, the balance between insulin and glucagon is disrupted, contributing to erratic blood sugar levels (Johnson, 2020).

Ayurvedic Perspective on the Pancreas and Diabetes

Ayurveda does not refer to the pancreas explicitly, but it attributes its function to Medo Dhatu (fat tissue) and Agni (metabolic fire) (Sharma & Patel, 2018). The imbalance in Kapha and weakened Agni affect glucose metabolism, while Ama obstructs the energy pathways (Srotas) involved in insulin regulation (Kumar, 2019).

Kapha Dosha and the Pancreas

• Kapha governs stability and structure, and its imbalance leads to sluggish digestion, improper fat metabolism, and insulin resistance.
• Excess Kapha can clog pancreatic channels, reducing insulin production and secretion (Sharma & Patel, 2018).

Agni and Pancreatic Function

• Weak Agni impairs digestion and metabolism, contributing to Ama formation.
• Ama accumulates in tissues, disrupting pancreatic function and exacerbating diabetes (Kumar, 2019).

Vata and Pitta Contributions

• Aggravated Vata dosha may disrupt nerve signals and blood flow to the pancreas.
• Pitta dosha imbalance can cause inflammation, further damaging pancreatic cells (Doe, 2019).

How Diabetes Affects the Pancreas

1. Beta Cell Dysfunction

• Chronic high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) damages beta cells, reducing their ability to produce insulin over time (Smith, 2020).

2. Pancreatic Fat Deposition

• In type 2 diabetes, excess fat accumulates in and around the pancreas, impairing insulin secretion and worsening glucose metabolism (Johnson, 2020).

3. Pancreatitis

• Diabetes increases the risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can further disrupt insulin production (Brown, 2021).

4. Insulin Resistance

• Prolonged stress on the pancreas to produce insulin can lead to burnout of beta cells, worsening blood sugar control (Doe, 2019).

Ayurvedic Approach to Supporting Pancreatic Health

At the Diabetes Reversal Clinic, we focus on restoring doshic balance, strengthening Agni, and improving pancreatic function through holistic care (Hullanavar, 2021).

1. Detoxification

• Objective: Remove Ama and clear energy pathways to support pancreatic health.
• Methods: Gentle detox therapies, including herbal teas and dietary adjustments (Sharma & Patel, 2018).

2. Dietary Support

• Kapha-Pacifying Diet: Incorporate light, warming foods like barley, millet, bitter gourd, and green vegetables.
• Avoid: Sugary, processed, and oily foods that worsen Kapha and Ama (Johnson, 2020).

3. Herbal Formulations

• Turmeric: Reduces inflammation and supports beta cell function.
• Fenugreek: Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
• Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Balances Kapha and enhances digestive fire (Kumar, 2019).

4. External Therapies

• Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Promotes circulation and reduces Kapha buildup.
• Lepa (Herbal Poultices): Applied to the abdominal area to reduce inflammation and support pancreatic function (Sharma & Patel, 2018).

5. Yoga and Pranayama

• Yoga poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) stimulate the pancreas and improve metabolism.
• Breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing) balance doshas and enhance overall vitality (Doe, 2019).

Foods That Support Pancreatic Health

Foods to Include

1. Bitter Vegetables: Bitter gourd and fenugreek leaves stimulate insulin secretion.
2. Fibre-Rich Foods: Lentils, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables improve glucose metabolism.
3. Healthy Fats: Ghee, coconut oil, and flaxseeds support tissue repair and hormone regulation.
4. Spices: Turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon strengthen Agni and reduce inflammation (Kumar, 2019).

Foods to Avoid

1. Sugary Foods: Desserts, candies, and sweetened beverages exacerbate pancreatic strain.
2. Refined Carbohydrates: White bread and pasta cause blood sugar spikes.
3. Fried and Oily Foods: These increase Ama and Kapha, worsening insulin resistance.
4. Cold and Raw Foods: These weaken Agni and slow digestion (Sharma & Patel, 2018).

Lifestyle Tips for Pancreatic Health

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing abdominal fat improves insulin sensitivity and eases pancreatic stress (Johnson, 2020).
2. Stay Hydrated: Warm water with lemon aids detoxification and supports digestion (Doe, 2019).
3. Regular Exercise: Walking and yoga improve metabolism and enhance pancreatic function (Kumar, 2019).
4. Stress Management: Meditation and pranayama calm Vata and support overall hormonal balance (Sharma & Patel, 2018).

Why Choose the Diabetes Reversal Clinic?

At the Diabetes Reversal Clinic, we integrate Ayurvedic wisdom with modern insights to restore pancreatic function and manage diabetes effectively. Key benefits include:

1. Personalized Care: Treatment plans tailored to your doshic constitution and health needs.
2. Root-Cause Focus: Addressing the underlying imbalances for long-term health.
3. Expert Guidance: Led by Dr. Soumya Hullanavar, an Ayurvedic endocrinology specialist (Hullanavar, 2021).

Real Patient Experiences

One patient shares:

“I always thought managing diabetes was just about reducing sugar intake. At the Diabetes Reversal Clinic, I learned how to support my pancreas through diet and lifestyle. Dr. Soumya’s approach transformed my health.”
– Patient testimonial (2023)

From the Doctor’s Desk

Dr. Soumya Hullanavar explains:

“The pancreas is central to diabetes, and its health reflects the body’s overall balance. Ayurveda focuses on restoring harmony, supporting digestion, and detoxifying the system for sustainable results.”
– Hullanavar (2021)

Take the First Step Toward Pancreatic Health

Managing diabetes starts with understanding the role of the pancreas and addressing the underlying imbalances. Let the Diabetes Reversal Clinic guide you on your journey to holistic wellness.

📞 Contact us today: +91 8884722267
🌐 Visit: Diabetes Reversal Clinic

Empower yourself with Ayurvedic care for a healthier pancreas and better diabetes management.

Related-

Know more about Ayurveda Diabetes Reversal Treatments.

References

1.Bellin MD, Whitcomb DC, Abberbock J, et al. Patient and disease characteristics associated with the presence of diabetes mellitus in adults with chronic pancreatitis in the United States. Am J Gastroenterol 2017; 112:1457–1465. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

2.Schwarzenberg SJ, Uc A, Zimmerman B, et al. Chronic pancreatitis: pediatric and adult cohorts show similarities in disease progress despite different risk factors. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2019; 68:566–573. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

3.Zhu X, Liu D, Wei Q, et al. New-onset diabetes mellitus after chronic pancreatitis diagnosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pancreas 2019; 48:868–875. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

4.Woodmansey C, McGovern AP, McCullough KA, et al. Incidence, demographics, and clinical characteristics of diabetes of the exocrine pancreas (type 3c): a retrospective cohort study. Diabetes Care 2017; 40:1486–1493. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

5.Cho J, Scragg R, Pandol SJ, et al. Antidiabetic medications and mortality risk in individuals with pancreatic cancer-related diabetes and postpancreatitis diabetes: A nationwide cohort study. Diabetes Care 2019; 42:1675–1683. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

6.Hart PA, Bellin MD, Andersen DK, et al. Type 3c (pancreatogenic) diabetes mellitus secondary to chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 1:226–237. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

7.de la Iglesia D, Vallejo-Senra N, Lopez-Lopez A, et al. Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency and cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic pancreatitis: A prospective, longitudinal cohort study. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 34:277–283. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

8. Liu Y, Wang D, Guo HL, et al. Risk factors and nomogram for diabetes mellitus in idiopathic chronic pancreatitis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 35:343–352. ** Large prospective study of diabetes developing in subjects with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis. First study that used the identified risk factors to build and validate a prediction model.

9. Aslam M, Jagtap N, Karyampudi A, et al. Risk factors for development of endocrine insufficiency in chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatology 2021; 21:15–20. * Retrospective study that examined risk factors for development of diabetes in patients with chronic pancreatitis. A unique feature of this study was that it also examined factors associated with earlier onset of diabetes.

10. Olesen SS, Poulsen JL, Novovic S, et al. Multiple risk factors for diabetes mellitus in patients with chronic pancreatitis: A multicentre study of 1117 cases. United European Gastroenterol J 2020; 8:453–461. ** Large study finding that both risk factors for type 2 diabetes as well as features of pancreatic damage are associated with diabetes in chronic pancreatitis.

11.Hao L, Wang LS, Liu Y, et al. The different course of alcoholic and idiopathic chronic pancreatitis: A long-term study of 2,037 patients. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198365. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

12.Pan J, Xin L, Wang D, et al. Risk factors for diabetes mellitus in chronic pancreatitis: a cohort of 2011 patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3251. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

13.Machicado JD, Chari ST, Timmons L, et al. A population-based evaluation of the natural history of chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatology 2018; 18:39–45. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

14. Gutama BW, Yang Y, Beilman GJ, et al. Risk factors associated with progression toward endocrine insufficiency in chronic pancreatitis. Pancreas 2019; 48:1160–1166. * Novel study that examined risk factors for longitudinal decline in beta-cell function as measured during mixed meal tolerance testing.

15.Goodarzi MO, Nagpal T, Greer P, et al. Genetic risk score in diabetes associated with chronic pancreatitis versus type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2019; 10:e00057. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

16.Malka D, Hammel P, Sauvanet A, et al. Risk factors for diabetes mellitus in chronic pancreatitis. Gastroenterology 2000; 119:1324–1332. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

17.Wang W, Guo Y, Liao Z, et al. Occurrence of and risk factors for diabetes mellitus in Chinese patients with chronic pancreatitis. Pancreas 2011; 40:206–212. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

18.Pan J, Xin L, Wang D, et al. Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus in Chronic Pancreatitis: A Cohort of 2,011 Patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e3251. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

19.Lundberg R, Beilman GJ, Dunn TB, et al. Early Alterations in Glycemic Control and Pancreatic Endocrine Function in Nondiabetic Patients With Chronic Pancreatitis. Pancreas 2016; 45:565–571. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

20.Brunicardi FC, Chaiken RL, Ryan AS, et al. Pancreatic polypeptide administration improves abnormal glucose metabolism in patients with chronic pancreatitis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1996; 81:3566–3572. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

21. Cho J, Pandol SJ, Petrov MS. Risk of cause-specific death, its sex and age differences, and life expectancy in post-pancreatitis diabetes mellitus. Acta Diabetol 2021. ** Nationwide study that examined vascular, cancer, and all-cause mortality in post-pancreatitis diabetes compared to type 1 and type 2 diabetes, with analyses stratified by sex, type of pancreatitis, and age. This was the first study to find sex-related differences in cause-specific mortality in diabetes related to pancreatitis.

22.Cho J, Scragg R, Petrov MS. Risk of mortality and hospitalization after post-pancreatitis diabetes mellitus vs type 2 diabetes mellitus: a population-based matched cohort study. Am J Gastroenterol 2019; 114:804–812. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

23.Cho J, Walia M, Scragg R, et al. Frequency and risk factors for mental disorders following pancreatitis: a nationwide cohort study. Curr Med Res Opin 2019; 35:1157–1164. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

24.Munigala S, Subramaniam DS, Subramaniam DP, et al. Incidence and risk of pancreatic cancer in patients with a new diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. Dig Dis Sci 2021. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

25.Liao KF, Lai SW, Li CI, et al. Diabetes mellitus correlates with increased risk of pancreatic cancer: a population-based cohort study in Taiwan. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 27:709–713. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

26. Cho J, Scragg R, Petrov MS. Postpancreatitis diabetes confers higher risk for pancreatic cancer than type 2 diabetes: Results from a nationwide cancer registry. Diabetes Care 2020; 43:2106–2112. ** Large population-based study that examined the risk of pancreatic cancer in pancreatitis, post-pancreatitis diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. A unique feature was that the study examined the risk of pancreatic cancer in pancreatitis alone as well as combined with the two types of diabetes.

27.Yadav D, Park WG, Fogel EL, et al. PROspective Evaluation of Chronic Pancreatitis for EpidEmiologic and Translational StuDies: Rationale and study design for PROCEED from the Consortium for the Study of Chronic Pancreatitis, Diabetes, and Pancreatic Cancer. Pancreas 2018; 47:1229–1238. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

28.Maisonneuve P, Frulloni L, Mullhaupt B, et al. Impact of smoking on patients with idiopathic chronic pancreatitis. Pancreas 2006; 33:163–168. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

29.Hippisley-Cox J, Coupland C. Development and validation of QDiabetes-2018 risk prediction algorithm to estimate future risk of type 2 diabetes: cohort study. BMJ 2017; 359:j5019. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

30.Lindstrom J, Tuomilehto J. The diabetes risk score: a practical tool to predict type 2 diabetes risk. Diabetes Care 2003; 26:725–731. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]