Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, the gland behind the stomach which releases digestive enzymes to break down food in the stomach. It also secretes pancreatic juice which aids in absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. It is an essential organ for digestion, and it also produces several important hormones including insulin. However, sometimes, the digestive enzymes released go to work on the pancreas itself. Enough damage to the pancreas can lead to acute pancreatitis, a potentially life threatening condition. A new study published in the journal Gut, has found that diet rich in vegetables may help stave off acute pancreatitis.