The pancreas is a digestive organ behind the stomach that secretes important digestive enzymes into the intestines. An inflammation of this gland, called pancreatitis, can have serious effects on digestion, metabolism and energy production. Inflammation of the pancreas and other organs of the body can be prevented by a natural antioxidant called quercetin. This bioflavonoid is found in berries, onion, green tea, green vegetables, red grapes, citrus fruits and parsley. When concentrated in a supplement, it has protective properties against pancreatitis as well as skin eczema and hives, gout, prostatitis, cataracts and other inflammatory disorders. Always consult with your physician before you take any supplement.
Step 1
Purchase quercetin supplements from a health food store. They are available in pill and capsule form and are often combined with the pineapple enzyme bromelain, another naturally anti-inflammatory compound. Consult a nutritionist or doctor about the best type to take for your pancreatitis. Carefully read the supplement label to ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients.
Step 2
Take 100 to 250 mg of Quercetin three times a day for general protection against inflammation that may cause pancreatitis. Swallow the pills or capsules with a glass of water. Continue taking the supplement for the duration prescribed by a nutritionist or on the supplement label.
Step 3
Take 500 mg two times a day with a glass of water for inflammation of the pancreas gland. Continue the dosages as directed on the quercetin supplement label or by a nutritionist.
Step 4
Eat fruits and vegetables that are high in quercetin, such as apples, citrus fruits, red grapes, cherries, parsley, onions and olive oil. These foods are high in the flavonoids and enhance the protective effects of quercetin supplements.
Tips and Warnings
- Quercetin supplements can be taken with or without food. Consult a nutritionist or your doctor about eliminating foods from your diet that may increase the inflammation in the body that leads to pancreatitis.
- Do not take more than 1 g per day of quercetin, unless directed by a doctor; excess amounts of this supplement may cause or exacerbate kidney problems. Pancreatitis has many causes and, in some cases, this potentially serious condition may require extensive medical treatment including surgery. Do not replace prescribed treatments with quercetin supplements. Causes of chronic pancreatitis include cystic fibrosis, hypercalcemia or high calcium blood levels, high cholesterol, autoimmune disorders and some medications.
