Folk remedies against pancreatitis: myths and reality

Folk remedies against pancreatitis: myths and reality

Section 1: understanding of pancreatitis and its symptoms

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach and playing a key role in the digestion and regulation of blood sugar. The pancreas produces the enzymes necessary for the splitting of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, as well as hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, which control the level of glucose in the blood. Inflammation of the pancreas can be acute or chronic, each of which has its own causes, symptoms and methods of treatment.

1.1 acute pancreatitis: sudden attack

Acute pancreatitis is characterized by a sudden onset of pancreatic inflammation. The most common causes are gallstone disease (when the stones block the bile ducts and prevent the outflow of pancreatic enzymes) and alcohol abuse. Other causes may include abdominal injuries, certain drugs, infections and genetic factors.

• Symptoms of acute pancreatitis:
  • Intensive pain in the upper abdomen: It is often described as a piercing, burning or stitching pain that can radiate to the back. The pain can increase after eating, especially fatty foods.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause irritation of the stomach and intestines, leading to nausea and vomiting.
  • Fever: In some cases, an increase in body temperature may be observed.
  • Far heartbeat: The body tries to compensate for inflammation and pain, which can lead to a rapid heartbeat.
  • Bloating: The accumulation of gases and liquids in the abdominal cavity can cause bloating.
  • Soreness on the palpation of the abdomen: When touching the upper abdomen, severe pain can be felt.
  • In severe cases: Dehydration, low blood pressure, respiratory failure and renal failure.

1.2 Chronic pancreatitis: gradual destruction

Chronic pancreatitis develops gradually, over a long period of time. This condition is characterized by progressive damage to the pancreas, which leads to a deterioration in its functions. The main cause of chronic pancreatitis is the prolonged abuse of alcohol. Other causes include cystic fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, genetic mutations and obstruction of pancreatic ducts.

• Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis:
  • Constant pain in the upper abdomen: The pain can be less intense than in acute pancreatitis, but it is present constantly and can periodically intensify.
  • Weight loss: Digestion due to a lack of pancreatic enzymes leads to poor absorption of nutrients and, as a result, to weight loss.
  • Stiatorea (fat chair): The lack of lipase enzymes that break down fats leads to the release of fat with feces. The chair becomes voluminous, fat, poorly smelling and hard to wash off.
  • Diabetes: Damage to the pancreatic cells that produce insulin can lead to the development of diabetes.
  • Nausea and vomiting: They can occur periodically, especially after eating fatty foods or alcohol.
  • Weakness and fatigue: Poor absorption of nutrients and chronic inflammation can cause weakness and fatigue.
  • Jaundice (in rare cases): It may occur if inflammation of the pancreas squeezes the bile ducts.

1.3 Diagnostics of pancreatitis:

Diagnosis of pancreatitis includes:

• Medical examination and collection of anamnesis: The doctor asks about the symptoms, medical history and lifestyle.
• Blood tests: Determination of amylase levels and lipase in the blood. The increased levels of these enzymes indicate inflammation of the pancreas.
• The analysis: Determination of the amount of fat in feces to detect steatore.
• Visualization studies:
  • Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity: Allows you to visualize the pancreas and gall bladder.
  • Computed tomography (CT): Provides more detailed images of the pancreas and surrounding organs.
  • Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): Allows you to evaluate the condition of the pancreatic ducts and identify signs of inflammation.
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Invasive procedure that allows to visualize the ducts of the pancreas and bile ducts, as well as treatment (for example, removal of stones).

1.4 Traditional treatment of pancreatitis:

The traditional treatment of pancreatitis depends on the severity of the disease and its cause.

• Acute pancreatitis:
  • Hospitalization: It is necessary for observation and treatment.
  • Anesthetic drugs: To relieve pain.
  • Intravenous fluid administration: To restore the water balance.
  • Starvation: To reduce the load on the pancreas.
  • In some cases: Surgical intervention for removing stones from bile ducts or abscess drainage.
• Chronic pancreatitis:
  • Anesthetic drugs: To relieve pain.
  • Enzyme drugs: To improve digestion and assimilation of nutrients.
  • Insulin (with the development of diabetes): To control blood sugar.
  • Compliance with a diet: Avoid alcohol, fatty foods and other products that can aggravate the symptoms.
  • In some cases: Surgical intervention to expand the pancreatic ducts or remove damaged areas.

Section 2: Review of popular folk remedies and their declared properties

Many people suffering from pancreatitis turn to folk remedies in the hope of alleviating the symptoms and improving their condition. It is important to understand that the effectiveness of most of these funds is not scientifically proven, and their use should be agreed with the doctor. Some folk remedies can even be dangerous and worsen the course of the disease.

2.1 herbs and plants:

• Milk thistle (Silybum Marianum): It contains silimarin, which is claimed, has hepatoprotective properties (protects the liver). It is believed that milk thistle can help restore damaged liver cells and improve its function. Some believe that this can indirectly facilitate the load on the pancreas, since the liver and pancreas work in close communication.
  • Myth: The milk thistle completely restores the pancreas.
  • Reality: There is no sufficient scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of milk thistle for pancreatitis. It can have a supporting effect on the liver, but is not a replacement for traditional treatment.
• Immortal sandy (Helichrysum Arenarium): It has a choleretic, anti -inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Used to improve the outflow of bile and reduce inflammation. It is believed that an improvement in the outflow of bile can reduce the load on the pancreas.
  • Myth: Immortal cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can help improve the outflow of bile, but is not a specific remedy for the treatment of pancreatitis. Caution must be observed in the presence of stones in the gall bladder.
• Calendula medicinal (Calendula officinalis): It has anti -inflammatory, antiseptic and wound healing properties. Used to reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue healing.
  • Myth: The calendula directly treats the pancreas.
  • Reality: It can have a general anti -inflammatory effect, but there is no evidence of its effectiveness in pancreatitis.
• Chamomile Pharmacy (Matricaria Chamomilla): It has anti -inflammatory, antispasmodic and soothing properties. It is used to reduce inflammation, relieve spasms and improve sleep.
  • Myth: Chamomile quickly relieves pain with pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can help reduce inflammation and relieve cramps, but is not the main remedy for the treatment of pancreatitis.
• Bolshoi burdock (Arctium Lappa): It has a diuretic, choleretic and anti -inflammatory properties. Used to cleanse the body of toxins and improve the function of the liver and kidneys.
  • Myth: The burdock completely cleanses the pancreas.
  • Reality: It can have a general detoxifying effect, but there is no evidence of its effectiveness in pancreatitis.
• Oats on the sowing (Avena sativa): It is used in the form of decoctions and jelly to envelop the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, reduce inflammation and improve digestion. It is believed that oats helps to restore damaged tissues.
  • Myth: Oats are the best remedy for the treatment of pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can have a supporting effect on the digestive system, but is not the main remedy for the treatment of pancreatitis. It is important to use oats in moderate quantities and monitor the reaction of the body.
• Nine high (inla helenium): It has anti -inflammatory, antiseptic and expectorant properties. It is believed that it can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
  • Myth: Eleasil heals chronic pancreatitis.
  • Reality: There are not enough scientific data confirming its effectiveness in pancreatitis. It can cause allergic reactions.

2.2 food:

• Pumpkin: It is easily absorbed, contains vitamins and trace elements, has anti -inflammatory properties.
  • Myth: Pumpkin is a panacea for pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but is not the main treatment for treatment.
• Carrot: Contains vitamins and antioxidants, helps to improve digestion.
  • Myth: Carrot juice cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but is not the main treatment for treatment. It should be consumed in moderate quantities.
• Beet: It has anti -inflammatory and detoxification properties.
  • Myth: Beets completely cleans the pancreas.
  • Reality: It can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but is not the main treatment for treatment. It must be consumed in moderate quantities, as it can have a laxative effect.
• Buckwheat: It is easily absorbed, contains a lot of fiber and trace elements.
  • Myth: Buckwheat diet heals pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but is not the main treatment for treatment. It is important to observe moderation and diversity in nutrition.
• Blueberry: Contains antioxidants that protect the cells from damage.
  • Myth: Blueberries restores pancreatic cells.
  • Reality: It can have a general antioxidant effect, but there is no evidence of its effectiveness in pancreatitis.
• Kefir: Contains probiotics that improve the intestinal microflora and contribute to digestion.
  • Myth: Kefir cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but is not the main treatment for treatment. It is important to choose a low fat kefir.
• Honey: It has anti -inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
  • Myth: Honey cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: It can be used in small quantities in the absence of diabetes and allergies to beekeeping products. It is important to remember the high sugar content.

2.3 Other folk methods:

• Clay treatment: It is believed that clay has absorbing properties and helps to remove toxins from the body. Some people make clay compresses to the pancreas.
  • Myth: Clay stretches inflammation from the pancreas.
  • Reality: There is no scientific evidence of the effectiveness of clay treatment with pancreatitis. It can cause skin irritation.
• Urinotherapy: The use of your own urine is considered useful for the treatment of various diseases.
  • Myth: Urinotherapy cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: There is no scientific evidence of the effectiveness and safety of urinotherapy. It can be dangerous to health.
• Starvation: Some people believe that starvation helps to cleanse the pancreas and reduce inflammation.
  • Myth: Fasting is curing pancreatitis.
  • Reality: Fasting can be useful in acute pancreatitis under the supervision of a doctor, but contraindicated in chronic pancreatitis, as it can lead to depletion and worsening of the condition.
• Drinking mineral water: Some mineral waters, such as Borjomi or Essentuki, are considered useful for improving digestion and reducing inflammation.
  • Myth: Mineral water cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: Some mineral waters can have a positive effect on digestion, but are not the main means of treating pancreatitis. It is important to choose water with low salts and gases and use it on the recommendation of a doctor.
• Soda: Taking soda inside for alkalization of the body.
  • Myth: Soda cures pancreatitis.
  • Reality: The intake of soda inward can be dangerous and lead to a violation of the acid-base balance of the body. It is not recommended to use soda for the treatment of pancreatitis.

Section 3: Scientific view of folk remedies: evidence and refutation

A critical assessment of folk remedies requires an analysis of scientific research and evidence base. Many of the declared properties of folk remedies do not have scientific confirmation, and some may even be dangerous.

3.1 Problems with scientific justification:

• Lack of clinical research: Many folk remedies were not carefully studied in clinical research involving people. Most studies are conducted on animals or in a laboratory, which does not allow you to unambiguously judge the effectiveness and safety of these funds for people.
• Small samples: Even if studies are conducted in public, small samples are often used, which reduces the statistical significance of the results.
• Lack of control groups: In some studies, there is no control group, which does not allow comparing the effectiveness of a folk remedy with a placebo or standard treatment.
• Research bias: Some studies can be biased due to the interest of researchers in positive results.
• Differences in the compositions and dosages: The composition and dosage of folk remedies can vary depending on the manufacturer and the method of preparation, which complicates the assessment of their effectiveness.
• Individual characteristics of the body: The effectiveness of folk remedies can depend on the individual characteristics of the body, such as age, gender, state of health and genetic predisposition.

3.2 Scientific data on individual funds:

• Milk thistle paddy: Some studies have shown that silimarin can have a hepatoprotective effect and improve liver function. However, there is no sufficient evidence of its effectiveness in pancreatitis. Some studies have shown that silimarin can reduce the level of liver enzymes and improve the general condition of patients with liver diseases.
• Sandy immortal: It really has a choleretic effect, which can be useful for diseases of the gall bladder and biliary tract. However, there is no direct evidence of its effectiveness in pancreatitis.
• OBO sowing: Contains beta-glucan, which can have a positive effect on blood cholesterol and the immune system. Decoctions and jelly from oats can envelop the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, reducing inflammation.
• Pumpkin, carrots, beets, buckwheat, blueberries: These products contain vitamins, trace elements and antioxidants that are good for health in general. They can be included in a diet for pancreatitis, but are not specific treatment for treatment.
• Probiotics (kefir, yogurt): They can improve intestinal microflora and contribute to digestion. Some studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the risk of infections after pancreatic surgery.

3.3 dangerous folk remedies:

• Urinotherapy: There is no scientific evidence of its effectiveness and safety. Urine contains metabolic products that the body removes. Urination of urine can lead to poisoning of the body.
• Soda: The intake of soda inward can disrupt the acid-base balance of the body and lead to serious consequences.
• Uncontrolled starvation: It can lead to depletion of the body, deterioration of condition and exacerbation of the disease.
• Reception of herbs with unproven efficiency and possible side effects: Some herbs can cause allergic reactions, interact with drugs and worsen the course of the disease.

Section 4: Rules for the safe use of folk remedies for pancreatitis

If you consider the possibility of using folk remedies for the treatment of pancreatitis, it is important to comply with the following rules:

• Mandatory consultation with a doctor: Before you start using any folk remedies, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will appreciate your health status, take into account possible contraindications and interaction with other drugs.
• Using only proven and safe means: Choose folk remedies that have at least some scientific justification and do not have known side effects. Avoid the use of dubious and dangerous methods such as urinotherapy or clay treatment.
• Compliance with the dosage and method of application: Strictly observe the recommended dosage and the method of using folk remedies. Do not exceed the dosage specified in the recipe or instructions.
• Attentive observation of your condition: During the use of folk remedies, carefully observe your health status. When any side effects appear, such as an allergic reaction, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or abdominal pain, immediately stop using the product and consult a doctor.
• Do not replace traditional treatment with folk remedies: Folk remedies should not replace the traditional treatment prescribed by a doctor. They can only be used as auxiliary therapy to relieve symptoms and improve the general condition.
• A combination of folk remedies with a diet and a healthy lifestyle: To achieve the best results, combine the use of folk remedies with a diet recommended by a doctor and a healthy lifestyle, including the rejection of alcohol and smoking, regular physical exercises and sufficient sleep.
• Remember the individual reaction of the body: The effectiveness of folk remedies can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body. What helps one person may not help another. Be prepared for the fact that you will have to try several different means to find the one that suits you.
• Inform the doctor about all the means used: Be sure to inform your doctor about all the folk remedies that you use so that he can evaluate their interaction with other drugs and prevent possible side effects.
• Buy folk remedies in proven places: Buy herbs, biologically active additives and other folk remedies only in proven places, such as pharmacies or specialized stores. Make sure that the product is certified and complies with quality standards.
• Do not self -medicate: Self -medication can be dangerous to health. Always consult a doctor before using any folk remedies.

Section 5: Diet for pancreatitis as the basis of treatment and prevention

Diet plays a key role in the treatment and prevention of pancreatitis. Proper nutrition helps to reduce the load on the pancreas, reduce inflammation and improve the general condition of the body.

5.1 General principles of diet for pancreatitis:

• Frequent and fractional nutrition: It is recommended to eat 5-6 times a day in small portions. This helps to reduce the load on the pancreas and improve digestion.
• Warm food: Food should be warm, not hot and not cold. Too hot or cold food can irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines and aggravate inflammation.
• Steamed cooking, cooking or baking: Avoid fried, smoked and spicy foods. Preparation of steamed, cooking or baking helps to preserve nutrients and reduce the amount of fat.
• Fat restriction: Fat should be limited in the diet, especially animal fats. Fatty food increases the load on the pancreas and can aggravate inflammation.
• Limiting simple carbohydrates: Avoid sweet drinks, sweets, baking and other products with a high content of simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates can cause a sharp jump in blood sugar and worsen the condition with diabetes, which often develops with chronic pancreatitis.
• Sufficient amount of protein: Protein is necessary to restore damaged tissues and maintain immunity. Choose low -fat sources of protein, such as chicken breast, fish, tofu and legumes.
• A sufficient amount of fiber: Fiber improves digestion and helps to remove toxins from the body. Use vegetables, fruits, whole grain products and bran.
• Abundant drink: Drink a sufficient amount of liquid, at least 1.5-2 liters per day. It is preferable to drink water, herbal teas and unsweetened compotes.
• Exception of alcohol: Alcohol is one of the main causes of pancreatitis. Exclude alcohol completely from the diet.
• Exception of carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines.

5.2 allowed products for pancreatitis:

• Soups: Loof soups on vegetable or chicken broth.
• Porridge: Buckwheat, oatmeal, rice porridge, cooked on the water.
• Meat: Low -fat varieties of meat (chicken breast, turkey, rabbit), steamed, boiled or baked.
• Fish: Low -fat fish varieties (cod, pollock, pike perch), steamed, boiled or baked.
• Vegetables: Boiled or steamed vegetables (carrots, beets, zucchini, pumpkin, colored cabbage, broccoli).
• Fruits: Non -acidic fruits (apples, pears, bananas), baked or in the form of compotes.
• Bread: White bread yesterday’s baking, crackers.
• Dairy products: Low -fat cottage cheese, kefir, yogurt (with low fat).
• Drinks: Water, herbal teas, unsweetened compotes.

5.3 Forbidden products for pancreatitis:

• Fatty meat and fish: Pork, lamb, fat beef, lard, fat fish (herring, mackerel, salmon).
• Fried and smoked food: Fried cutlets, barbecue, smoked meats, sausages.
• Sharp and spicy dishes: Pepper, mustard, horseradish, garlic, onion.
• Canned food and pickles: Salted cucumbers, tomatoes, canned vegetables and fruits.
• Sweet drinks and confectionery: Shipped drinks, sweets, cakes, cakes, ice cream.
• Alcohol: All types of alcoholic beverages.
• Coffee and strong tea: Caffeine annoys the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines.
• Chocolate: Contains a lot of fat and sugar.
• Mushrooms: They are difficult to digest.
• Fresh pastries: Fresh bread, buns, pies.
• Beans, peas, lentils: They can cause bloating.

5.4 approximate menu for the day with pancreatitis:

• Breakfast: Oatmeal porridge on the water, low -fat cottage cheese, herbal tea.
• Lunch: Baked apple.
• Dinner: Soup on vegetable broth, boiled chicken breast, boiled carrots, compote.
• Afternoon snack: Low -fat kefir.
• Dinner: Steam fish, buckwheat porridge, herbal tea.
• Before going to bed: A glass of low -fat yogurt.

Section 6: The importance of changing lifestyle with pancreatitis

Change in lifestyle is an integral part of the treatment and prevention of pancreatitis. In addition to a diet, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

• Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the pancreas and aggravates inflammation.
• Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises improve blood circulation, strengthen immunity and help maintain healthy weight.
• Avoiding stress: Stress can worsen the course of pancreatitis. Learn to manage stress using relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises.
• Full dream: A sufficient sleep is necessary to restore the body and maintain immunity.
• Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations allow timely detect and treat diseases that can contribute to the development of pancreatitis.
• Compliance with the regime of the day: Compliance with the regimen of the day helps to normalize the body’s work and improve the overall state of health.
• Avoiding overeating: Overflow increases the load on the pancreas.
• Weight control: Obesity increases the risk of pancreatitis.
• Drug restriction: Some drugs can cause pancreatitis. Discuss with your doctor all the medicines you take.

Section 7: Alternative methods of treating pancreatitis (outside traditional medicine)

In addition to traditional treatment and folk remedies, there are alternative treatment methods that can be useful for pancreatitis. It is important to note that these methods should not replace traditional treatment, but should be used as auxiliary therapy under the supervision of a doctor.

• Acupuncture (Iglowerie): Some studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce pain and improve the digestive system.
• Massage: Massage can help improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tension and relieve stress.
• Relaxation techniques (yoga, meditation, breathing exercises): Relaxation techniques help reduce stress, improve sleep and general health.
• Enzyme drugs: Enzymes help improve digestion and absorption of nutrients.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help cope with stress, anxiety and depression, which often accompany chronic diseases.

Section 8: Conclusion: an integrated approach to the treatment of pancreatitis

Treatment of pancreatitis requires an integrated approach, including traditional treatment, a diet, a change in lifestyle and the use of folk remedies (under the supervision of a doctor). It is important to remember that folk remedies should not replace traditional treatment, but should be used as auxiliary therapy to relieve symptoms and improve the general condition. Compliance with the doctor’s recommendations, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle will help you control pancreatitis and improve the quality of life.