Nutrition support in pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas that frequently involves peripancreatic tissue and/or remote organ systems. The incidence of AP is rising, most likely due to an increase in alcohol abuse. In patients with severe AP, nutrition support is considered essential. Good glycaemic control is essential in AP, and blood glucose and triacylglycerol (TAG) concentrations should be monitored during enteral nutrition (EN). Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is classified by the Cambridge definition as a chronic inflammatory disease of the pancreas characterized by irreversible morphological changes and typically causing pain and/or permanent loss of function. The nutritional management of CP has been described as 'a problem area'. Therefore, it is vital that a standardised framework is followed so that the complex issues may be adequately addressed. Antioxidant supplements for CP are composed of selenium, P-carotene, L-methionine, vitamin C and vitamin E.