If you have chronic pancreatitis, the persistent inflammation of your pancreas can lead to permanent damage, resulting in conditions like diabetes and malabsorption of nutrients. Paying close attention to your diet can decrease inflammation flare-ups, help you maintain your weight and ensure appropriate vitamin and mineral intake. A dietitian can help you plan a healthful diet. Contact a health care provider during flare-ups, as you may require hospitalization .
Low-Fat Diet
Fat malabsorption is common in chronic pancreatitis, and results in steatorrhea, or diarrhea with fat in the stool. A low-fat diet can help decrease this symptom. A dietitian may tell you to avoid fried foods, whole-milk products, nuts and seeds, fatty meats and baked goods. Dietitians and physicians often recommend using medium-chain triglyceride oil, found naturally in coconut and palm kernel oils, because it is easier to digest. You can purchase MCT oil at most health food stores and pharmacies, and add it to drinks, salads, vegetables and sauces. Use MCT oil only under a health professional's supervision.
Frequent Meals
Small, frequent meals can help decrease your symptoms of pancreatitis. Try to eat six small, well-balanced meals spread throughout the day to minimize pain. Work with a dietitian to ensure you get adequate amounts of antioxidants, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins and folic acid. You may need to supplement some of the fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K, due to fat malabsorption. Consult a health care provider before adding any supplements to your diet.
Increased Fluids
People with chronic pancreatitis often experience diarrhea and vomiting. This loss of fluid can lead to dehydration, which in turn increases pain. Consult your health care provider to find out how much fluid you should drink each day to replace the amount that is lost. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can worsen dehydration and aggravate pain.
Extra Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals, such as calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium and chlorine, that help balance the body's fluid levels, the acidity of the blood and muscle movement. Vomiting and diarrhea associated with pancreatitis often causes electrolyte levels to drop. Check with a health care provider to determine if you require extra electrolytes.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and kidney Diseases
- Medline Plus: Chronic Pancreatitis
- RD411: Eating with Chronic Pancreatitis
- "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care"; Sylvia Escott-Stump; 2008
- Medlineplus: Electrolytes
