The hormone insulin, which regulates blood sugar, is secreted by the pancreas. When carbohydrates enter the body through meals, it works to lower the speed at which blood sugar rises to prevent a spike in blood sugar levels. The pancreas also secretes digestive juices (pancreatic juice) that help break down and dissolve fats for digestion and absorption. Enjoying high-fat, high-calorie foods daily can put a strain on the pancreas. Let’s take a closer look at blood sugar management and pancreatic health.
"Pancreas, please take a break"... Are you suffering from high-fat foods even at night?
To put it simply, the pancreas also needs sufficient rest. If you eat high-fat, high-calorie foods for lunch and dinner, and then consume fried foods or other high-fat items at night, it puts a significant burden on the pancreas. In particular, fats and proteins take a long time to digest. Depending on the individual, it can take 3 to 6 hours. If you eat animal fat foods as a late-night snack, your morning fasting blood sugar may be high. Even while the body is asleep, the pancreas diligently secretes digestive juices and insulin. While the whole body is supposed to rest, the pancreas can become overloaded and its condition may worsen.
Why is pancreatic cancer increasing so rapidly... Is there a change in the causes of the disease?
According to national cancer registration statistics, there were 9,780 new cases of pancreatic cancer in 2022, and it is on track to reach 10,000 soon. It ranks 8th in overall cancer incidence, making it one of the top 10 cancers in our country. Smoking is a risk factor, but there is not a significant difference in the number of male and female patients. There are 5,085 men and 4,695 women. The increase in diabetes related to high carbohydrate and high-fat food intake and lack of exercise is closely related. If diabetes occurs suddenly without a family history, or if the condition worsens, it is advisable to undergo screening for pancreatic cancer.
By paying attention to significant changes in blood sugar... pancreatic cancer could be detected early
The reason pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat is that it is often detected late. Like other cancers, pancreatic cancer symptoms appear later. If symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, digestive disorders, and diabetes appear, the condition is already quite advanced. Pain in the epigastric area (the hollow area in the center of the chest) is common, but pain can also occur around the abdomen and lower back. This is because the pancreas is located behind the lower back. If blood sugar control suddenly becomes difficult, one should suspect not only diabetes but also pancreatic abnormalities.
"Oh, why is my blood sugar suddenly like this... Has something happened to my pancreas?"
Recently, there has been an increase in doctors and researchers studying the relationship between pancreatic cancer and blood sugar abnormalities. According to the National Cancer Information Center, if new diabetes appears or existing diabetes worsens, pancreatic cancer should be suspected. Symptoms of high blood sugar that are difficult to control may be a cause of pancreatic cancer, but it could also be the case that pancreatic cancer has developed first, disrupting blood sugar control. It is essential to protect the pancreas regularly. Managing dietary habits is the most important. It is advisable to reduce high-fat, high-calorie, and high-carbohydrate foods and consume plenty of vegetables that help regulate blood sugar. Quitting smoking is essential, and one should also avoid secondhand smoke. Avoiding overeating and moving the body after meals can be helpful.
