Alcohol misuse and gallstones are the two leading risk factors for acute pancreatitis. Both of these risk factors can be reduced by making changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Alcohol
Limiting the amount of alcohol that you drink can help prevent your pancreas being damaged and can lower your risk of developing acute pancreatitis. It can also lower your chances of developing other serious conditions, such as liver cancer.
The recommendations for the consumption of alcohol are that men should not drink more than three to four units of alcohol a day and women should not drink more than two to three units a day. A unit of alcohol is equal to about half a pint of normal strength lager, a small glass of wine or a pub measure (25ml) of spirits.
See the Live Well section about drinking and alcohol for more information and advice.
Gallstones
The most effective way to prevent gallstones is to eat a healthy, low-fat diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (at least five portions a day). Your diet should also include whole grains, which are found in wholemeal bread, oats and brown rice. This will help to lower the amount of cholesterol in your bile.
Being overweight also increases the amount of cholesterol in your bile and your chances of developing gallstones. Maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and taking plenty of regular exercise.
For most people, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week is recommended. Examples of moderate-intensity exercise are walking fast, riding a bike on level ground, water aerobics and playing doubles tennis. Read more about the benefits of exercise.
However, if you have never exercised before, or if you have not exercised for some time, seek advice from your GP before starting a new programme of exercise.
See the following Live Well sections for more information about exercise, healthy eating and losing weight.
