Pancreatin: Information
Pancreatin is a mixture of lipase (a fat-dissolving enzyme), protease (a protein enzyme), and amylase (an enzyme that aids in the digestion of starchy carbohydrates, and is often prescribed to people whose pancreatic secretions are low. The supplement form of pancreatin may be derived from pork or beef sources. Pancreatic enzymes have not been standardized, and may include a combination of the following enzymes: trypsin, chymotrypsin, lipase, amylase, colipase, and ribonuclease.
Pancreatin's Health Benefits
Pancreatin helps people with pancreatic disorders (cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis) whose pancreatic secretions are low to properly digest food. Pancreatin may help improve nutrient absorption, prevent weight loss, and prevent diarrhea in these individuals.
Using Pancreatin
Consult your physician before including pancreatin in your daily regimen.
Side-effects and Cautions:
Excessive doses may cause gastro-intestinal discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and/or pain. Very large doses have been known to cause hyperuricosuria and hyperuricemia in some individuals. Consult your physician before consuming pancreatin if you have a health conditions. Those allergic to beef/pork products should not take supplemental pancreatin.