Health Tips for June 2

Health Tip: Preventing the Return of Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that plays a key role in the body's digestive system.

Although the disease isn't fully understood, here are steps you can take to prevent it from returning, the American Gastroenterological Association says:

• If your doctor has told you that your illness is related to alcohol, avoid all alcoholic beverages.
• Eat a healthy diet and avoid foods that are high in fat or very greasy, especially if your illness is related to gallstones. Gallstone-related pancreatitis may require removal of your gallbladder.
• Talk to your doctor about taking an enzyme supplement that can help your body digest foods.
• Develop a new meal plan with your doctor to help reduce symptoms and prevent aggravation of the pancreas.

Health Tip: Using a Dietary Supplement

More than half of Americans take a dietary supplement of some kind, the Cleveland Clinic says.

But all supplements aren't safe and effective. The clinic offers this primer:

• There's no better substitute for a healthy, balanced diet, which can provide most healthy people with all of the nutrients they need.
• Supplements are a good option for people who can't get enough of certain needed nutrients through diet. Pregnant women, athletes and vegetarians are prime examples.
• Too much of a good thing can cause serious health problems. Be sure not to exceed the recommended daily amount of any supplement.
• Supplements aren't regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it's up to consumers to carefully check supplement labels to be sure what they're taking.