Guide To Treating Chronic Pancreatitis

Consume Smaller Meals

Individuals affected by chronic pancreatitis are often advised to consume smaller meals. The pancreas is responsible for the production of certain enzymes necessary for the proper digestion of food. Chymotrypsin and trypsin are produced by the pancreas to break down proteins. Lipase is produced to break down fats, and amylase is produced to break down carbohydrates. All of these enzymes are combined and sent down the common bile duct, where bile joins them. The combination of bile and enzymes then moves into the small intestine where they are all utilized to break down the different components of food. Chronic pancreatitis patients have a reduced function of their pancreas, which means it cannot produce these enzymes very well. The digestive system may have trouble digesting a larger meal due to the fact the pancreas is not providing enough of these enzymes collectively at one time. It is easier on the patient's inflamed pancreas to eat six smaller meals a day, instead of three larger meals.

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