What lifestyle modifications should I advise to a patient recovering from an episode of acute pancreatitis?

Advise the patient to avoid alcohol consumption for at least 6–12 months following hospital discharge, regardless of the underlying cause or severity of acute pancreatitis ¹.

Recommend stopping smoking, as smoking is an independent risk factor for recurrent acute pancreatitis and can increase the risk of disease progression ¹.

Encourage management of any modifiable risk factors such as hypercalcaemia or hypertriglyceridaemia, which can exacerbate pancreatitis ¹.

Provide information on sources of support and education about lifestyle changes, including the risks associated with alcohol and smoking ¹.