Chronic pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas, an organ that helps digest food, becomes inflamed. The pancreas also produces insulin, which helps keep blood sugar within a normal range. Alcoholism, gallbladder stones, smoking, medication, infection or injury to the pancreas can cause pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can cause life-threatening complications and as such, it is important to seek treatment from a health care professional. Along with medications, following a certain diet and taking certain vitamins and minerals can help reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
Fruits and Vegetables
Antioxidants rid the body of free radicals, and a person with low levels of antioxidants in his body is at increased risk of developing pancreatitis, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fruits, such as tomatoes, blueberries and cherries, and green vegetables like squash and green bell pepper, contain high amount of antioxidants and can ease the symptoms of pancreatitis. Dark, leafy green vegetables also contain a high amount of iron and B vitamins, which can help reduce symptoms.
Protein
Try to choose lean sources of protein including chicken and cold-water fish. If you do not have an allergy for soy, try tofu in place of higher fat protein sources. Beans are also a good choice. Make sure you are getting enough protein daily, as protein is essential for building and repairing cells.
Vitamins and Minerals
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends certain vitamins and minerals to reduce nutritional deficiencies. These supplements can include a complete multivitamin daily, 1 to 2 capsules of omega-3 fatty acids and 100 to 200 mg of coenzyme Q10 to help improve immune function and reduce inflammation. You should also supplement your diet with 1 to 6 g of vitamin C daily, but if you are taking vitamin B-12 as well, they should not be taken within two hours of each other. A probiotic taken daily can help maintain the gastrointestinal system.
Food Allergies
If you have chronic pancreatitis, eliminating certain food allergens can minimize complications from pancreatitis. If you suspect you have an allergy to milk, cheese eggs, wheat, soy, corn or food additives, talk to your health care provider about being tested for allergies. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends avoiding processed food including packaged cookies, crackers and cereals.
Other Nutritional Considerations
You should eat small meals throughout the day. In order to ensure you are getting enough calories each day, consult with your doctor or a dietitian. MayoClinic.com states that a low-fat diet should be followed. Aim for keeping your total fat less than 30 g a day and cook with healthier oils such as olive oil and vegetable oil. You should also avoid coffee and alcohol, and be sure to drink six to eight 8-oz. serving of water each day to prevent dehydration.
