The pancreas is a large organ, located in the abdomen that regulates the production and release of enzymes that aid in the digestive processes. It is also responsible for the production of insulin and glucagon, the two hormones that regulate blood sugar. Pancreatic disorders can result in inflammation of the organ, and an over production of hyper-activated enzymes. These enzymes, so necessary to digestion and the absorption of nutrients, begin to attack the surrounding tissue often causing acute and chronic pain. The most common symptoms associated with pancreatitis are abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen, nausea and a quickening pulse. Those suffering through bouts of pancreatitis know just how painful and intrusive these attacks can be, but with natural therapies they can soon find relief the relief they seek.
Common Causes of Pancreatitis
The most common causes of Pancreatitis are infection, injury, and excessive levels of calcium and triglycerides in the bloodstream. Lifestyle choices can play a large part in the occurrence of pancreatitis, with alcohol and tobacco being major contributors to pancreatic disorders. The chronic use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and antibiotics, can also adversely affect the health of the pancreas. Pancreatitis can also accompany, or be caused by, certain other chronic conditions such as ulcers, gallstones and cystic fibrosis.
Whatever the underlying cause, patients suffering with pancreatitis share the common goal of obtaining relief from the painful symptoms that accompany the disorder. Conventional medicine can offer some relief in the form pain killers or anti-inflammatory drugs, but they can only do so much to alleviate the symptoms of pancreatitis and in many cases can bring unwanted health problems of their own.
Pancreatic Pain Relief the Natural Way
One of the most important ways to help relieve pancreatitis is to eat raw, blended plant food with digestive enzymes added. This greatly reduces the work the pancreas has to do to digest food. In essence it gives the pancreas a time of rest which is greatly needed in order to heal.
Many patients suffering with pancreatitis have found relief from their symptoms through the therapeutic use of natural herbal supplements. These herbal therapies along with alternative treatments have long been of help in ancient times up to today. Herbs such as milk thistle, red clover and garlic have been used over the centuries to provide much needed relief from the pain and inflammation caused by pancreatitis. Burdock root is often used to stimulate and support the overall health of the pancreas, while dandelion is particularly effective in cleansing the liver and blood stream of toxins that can contribute to the chronic symptoms of pancreatitis.
The use of more commonly recognized dietary supplements, such as selenium and beta carotene, also is proven helpful in the treatment of pancreatitis. These supplements, along with vitamins C, B3 and B5, contain powerful antioxidants like glutathione, CoQ10 and alpha lipoic acid help to maintain the health of the pancreas, while fighting free radicals that can damage the organ. Those suffering from disorders of the pancreas are also encouraged to add vitamin E in the form of sunflower seeds to their daily regimen. Vitamin E is essential to maintaining the health of all of the body’s organs, and can help to reverse the tissue damage caused by chronic pancreatitis.
Alternative Physical Therapies for Pancreatitis
In addition to a daily regimen of vitamin and herbal supplements, there are a number of alternative physical therapies and alternative treatments that offer a relief from the symptoms of pancreatitis. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy is helpful when the pancreas is inflamed as is biophoton cold laser treatments. Colon hydrotherapy and lymphatic drainage therapy help reduce toxic load which helps the pancreas to heal.
Prayer and meditation on God’s word can also be highly effective in helping patients manage the chronic symptoms of pancreatitis. Also through the combination of breathing exercises and mental discipline, patients learn to manage their pain without the use of drugs or chemicals. Prayer and meditation on God’s word focusing on the complete wholeness of body, mind and spirit can have a powerful healing effect on the body. Prayer and meditation on God’s word reduces both mental and physical stress, freeing the body to begin the healing process.
Pancreatitis can often lead to other more serious health conditions, including diabetes, malnutrition, kidney disorders and pancreatic cancer. Patients suffering from this disorder should speak with their holistic clinicians to design a suitable treatment program. Natural therapies can do more than simply alleviate the symptoms of pancreatitis; they can help the body repair much of the damage that has already been done. Through a holistic therapy regimen, people suffering with pancreatitis can find the relief they need from their painful symptoms, and take their first steps on the path to renewed health and vigor.