Nutrition supplementation in patients with acute and chronic pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a hypermetabolic state characterized by increased pro tein catabolism, lipolysis, and glucose intolerance. Most patients presenti ng with acute pancreatitis are better within 5 to 7 days and can resume a r egular diet. Patients with severe pancreatitis and who ape unable to eat wi thin 7 to 10 days should receive nutritional support. The decision to use p arenteral or enteral nutrition is controversial. More recent data suggest t hat jejunal feedings are just as beneficial, if not better, than parenteral nutrition.