Is Shrimp Bad for Pancreatitis? A Look at Shellfish in a Pancreatitis Diet

Pancreatitis is a painful condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed. Acute attacks can be triggered by eating high-fat foods which overwork the pancreas. That’s why it’s crucial to follow a pancreatitis diet to help manage this condition. But what about shrimp? With its delicate flavor and texture shrimp is a popular seafood. However, its fat content has some wondering – is shrimp bad for pancreatitis?

Below we’ll explore how shrimp and other shellfish fit into a pancreatitis diet. We’ll look at their nutritional profile potential benefits, and also risks for people prone to pancreatitis symptoms.

The Role of Diet in Pancreatitis

The pancreas produces enzymes needed to digest fats, proteins, and carbs But when the pancreas becomes inflamed with pancreatitis, it has trouble making enough of these enzymes Eating a high-fat meal can further overwhelm the already inflamed pancreas.

That’s why a low-fat pancreatitis diet is recommended. This limits total fat intake, especially saturated fats. People with chronic pancreatitis are often advised to avoid fried greasy foods, fatty cuts of meat, whole milk dairy, and other high-fat foods.

So where does shrimp and other shellfish fall on the fat spectrum? Let’s find out.

Total Fat and Calories in Shrimp

A 3 ounce serving of cooked shrimp contains:

• 0.5 grams total fat
• 99 calories

For comparison, the same serving size of:

• Salmon contains 5 grams fat and 175 calories
  -Pork tenderloin contains 3 grams fat and 120 calories
• Skinless chicken breast contains 1 gram fat and 110 calories

So shrimp is very low in total fat, especially saturated fat. It clocks in at under 100 calories per serving.

This makes shrimp a healthier choice compared to fatty fish like salmon. Shrimp provides protein with minimal impact on fat digestion.

Benefits of Shrimp for Pancreatitis

Here are some of the advantages shrimp offers for a pancreatitis diet:

• Low-fat – As a seafood, shrimp is naturally low in fat, especially saturated fat. This makes it easy to digest.

• High protein – A serving of shrimp packs over 15 grams of protein to help maintain muscle mass. This balances out shrimp’s lack of fat.

• Nutrient-dense – Shrimp provides vitamins and minerals like selenium, vitamin B12, and astaxanthin. These nutrients support pancreas and immune health.

• Anti-inflammatory – Shrimp contains omega-3s and astaxanthin which help reduce inflammation involved in pancreatitis attacks.

• Low glycemic index – Shrimp doesn’t spike blood sugar, which is beneficial for pancreatitis patients who also have diabetes.

Potential Risks of Shrimp for Pancreatitis

While shrimp is low in fat, some people with severe pancreatitis have trouble tolerating any higher fat foods. Here are some potential drawbacks of shrimp to consider:

• Allergic reactions – Some people are allergic to shellfish like shrimp. An allergic response could trigger pancreatitis symptoms.

• Cholesterol content – A 3 oz serving of shrimp has 166 mg cholesterol. High cholesterol intake can contribute to gallstones, a risk factor for pancreatitis.

• Preparation methods – Battered or fried shrimp defeats the purpose of choosing this otherwise lean protein. The breading and frying oil add substantial fat.

• Other ingredients – Cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or creamy shrimp dip can make shrimp off-limits for pancreatitis. These condiments are high in fat.

• Individual tolerance – Even lean proteins may be tolerated differently in individuals with chronic pancreatitis. Smaller portions may be advised.

So while shrimp meat is low in fat, allergies, cholesterol, and how it’s prepared could be issues for some people with pancreatitis to keep in mind. Let’s look at some ways to enjoy shrimp on a pancreatitis diet.

Tips for Including Shrimp in a Pancreatitis Diet

Here are some suggested ways to work shrimp into your pancreatitis meal plan:

• Opt for boiled, grilled, or baked shrimp instead of fried.

• Enjoy shrimp in low-fat tangy cocktail sauce made with tomato juice, horseradish, lemon juice and hot sauce instead of mayo-based sauce.

• Make shrimp salad with light mayo or yogurt, chopped veggies, lemon, and spices.

• Saute shrimp with olive oil cooking spray, garlic, diced tomatoes, spinach and whole wheat pasta.

• Mix grilled shrimp into whole grain pilaf or risotto with steamed vegetables.

• Fill lettuce wraps with shrimp and avocado salsa made with a small amount of avocado.

• Make shrimp and vegetable kebabs brushed lightly with olive oil.

In most cases, 3 to 4 ounces of shrimp two or three times per week can be included in a balanced low-fat pancreatitis diet. But speak to your doctor or dietitian first, especially if you have gallbladder issues or severe pancreatitis symptoms.

Should You Avoid All Shellfish with Pancreatitis?

While shrimp tends to be well-tolerated, some other types of shellfish contain more fat. Here’s a look at a few other common shellfish:

Crab – Blue crab is a lean option while king and snow crab legs are higher in fat. Stick to a 3-4 oz portion.

Lobster – Similar to shrimp nutrition-wise. Focus on the meat without butter sauce.

Scallops – Extremely low in fat but high in cholesterol (over 100 mg per 3 oz).

Clams & Mussels – Also low in fat but very high in cholesterol due to theirFilter content.

Oysters – Higher in fat compared to other shellfish, with about 2 grams per 3 medium oysters.

With pancreatitis, it’s smart to get personalized advice from your healthcare provider on including shellfish in your diet. But for the most part, shrimp, crab, and lobster in moderation can be healthy lower-fat options.

Other Lean Protein Choices for Pancreatitis

To reduce fatigue and maintain muscle, getting adequate protein is important with pancreatitis. If shellfish doesn’t appeal, here are other smart lean protein choices:

• Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines (in moderation)
• White fish like cod, tilapia, haddock
• Skinless chicken or turkey
• Lean beef cuts like sirloin or 95% lean ground beef
• Pork tenderloin
• Tofu and tempeh
• Eggs or egg whites
• Low-fat dairy like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
• Beans, lentils, and legumes
• Protein powder

Vary your protein sources for versatility. Combine lean meats or seafood with bean or lentil side dishes to maximize nutrition.

Is Shrimp Ever Completely Off Limits with Pancreatitis?

For most people with mild to moderate pancreatitis, shrimp in moderation can be included as part of a low-fat diet. But in certain situations, it may be advised to avoid shrimp entirely:

• If you have a shellfish allergy or sensitivity
• If you’ve been advised to follow a very low-fat pancreatitis diet (under 30 grams daily fat)
• If you have severe attacks triggered by specific foods
• If you have difficulty digesting meats and proteins
• If you have high cholesterol or triglycerides
• During an acute pancreatitis flare-up or attack

Discuss your individual case with your healthcare provider. While shrimp may be healthy for many, your doctor knows your medical history best. Follow their guidance on including shrimp and shellfish in your personal pancreatitis diet plan.

The Bottom Line

For most people with mild to moderate pancreatitis, enjoying shrimp and other low-fat shellfish sparingly can be safe and healthy. Shrimp provides nutrients like protein, selenium, and vitamin B12 with minimal impact on fat digestion.

Stick to boiled, grilled or broiled shrimp instead of fried. Limit portion sizes to 3-4 ounces. Combine with non-starchy vegetables and whole grains. Those with severe attacks triggered by fat intake may still need to avoid shrimp and all high-fat foods. But for many, shrimp in moderation can be part of a balanced pancreatitis diet.