Chronic pancreatitis is a condition characterized by progressive and long-term inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is part of the digestive tract and secretes hormones and enzymes necessary for normal digestion. Chronic pancreatitis can be a very painful condition. Modifying the foods in your diet can help control your pain and symptoms associated with chronic pancreatitis.
Low Fat Diet
Lipase is one of the enzymes that your pancreas produces. Lipase helps break down dietary fats. To decrease stress placed on the pancreas and to decrease pain associated with eating, a low-fat diet is recommended for people with chronic pancreatitis. Choose low-fat dairy products such as skim or 1 percent milk, and eat reduced-fat cheeses in moderation. Avoid meats that are high in fat such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs and spare ribs. Reduce or omit oils used in cooking and avoid fried foods such as French fries and doughnuts. Aim for a diet that is rich in whole grains, legumes, lean protein foods, low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
Alcohol
It is critical to abstain from alcohol if you have chronic pancreatitis. Clinical observations indicate that alcohol can be toxic to the pancreas in some individuals. When alcohol is consumed, it is broken down by the pancreas, placing increased stress on the organ. Alcohol consumption can also increase the amount of digestive enzymes the pancreas produces. This can lead to autodigestion, a condition in which pancreatic enzymes are activated before they are released from the pancreas and begin digesting the pancreas itself.
Pancreatic Enzymes
In chronic pancreatitis, your pancreas may be damaged and unable to secrete enough enzymes to allow food to be digested normally. Inadequate pancreatic enzymes can result in frequent loose stools that are greasy and foul smelling. Your doctor may give you a prescription for synthetic pancreatic enzymes. When taken with meals, these enzymes can help break down foods and facilitate normal digestion, and decrease the pancreas' workload. Synthetic pancreatic enzymes should be taken only under the direction of your doctor.
Nutrition Tips
Chronic pancreatitis can compromise your body's ability to digest foods well, and in some cases, can lead to weigh loss and malnutrition. A registered dietitian can help you plan your diet to ensure that you are getting the nutrition you need. Try eating six small meals daily to reduce pain and discomfort associated with eating. Eating small frequent meals throughout the day will also give you plenty of opportunities throughout the day to get the nutrition you need. Avoid caffeine in your diet and drink adequate liquids throughout the day.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Pancreatitis
- Medline Plus: Chronic Pancreatitis
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Pancreatitis
- Up To Date: Chronic Pancreatitis
- Medscape: Pancreas: Alcoholic Pancreatitis--It's the Alcohol, Stupid
- University of Chicago Medical Center: Chronic Pancreatitis
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