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New to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI): What helps?
Digestive Health | Last Active: Mar 23 3:39pm | Replies (112)Comment receiving replies
I'm an active grandma who was diagnosed with EPI in May 2023. GI doctor was vague about diet and I'm looking for any help. His advice was low fat (how low?), bland (how boring?), low fiber (what a change for me) and I'm trying but need something more specific. I've read and printed lists of food to avoid which MIGHT be helpful, pretty much everything! Nutritionist is not covered by insurance but I will pay the $50 a virtual session for a few visits if they can help - when I can get an appointment. So very thankful that Creon is covered! I think it is helping and now big problem is terrible gas. Diarrhea is much better but the gas! I understand keeping weight on is important and that seems difficult with low fat. I'd appreciate any suggestions and must say that life is still good, just frustrating.
Replies to "I'm an active grandma who was diagnosed with EPI in May 2023. GI doctor was vague..."
I'm an active grandpa diagnosted wiht EPI in 2016. I also was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes around the same time, so I had already modified my diet to watch carbohydrates and sugar. I lost 35 lbs before EPI was diagnosed. After about a year my GI doc said I probably don't need to worry about fat any more and haven't had any issues. My weight has been pretty stable since the dignosis.
I also wanted to speak with a nutritionist and asked my GP doc for a referral. The insurance co denied paying, and I called them to explain my situation and that it was after a doctor referral, not simply a request. It did get covered.
I too have a lot of bloating and gassiness, and have not found a reliable solution. I'm wondering what others have found that works.
I have discovered that a small amount of real sugar is much better than stevia which makes the gas and bloating ever so much worse.
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Hi, I’m a granny too🫶🏽
So happy you are on here!
First of all, have you joined (free) the National Pancreatic Foundation???
They have a lot of references and help!!!
Also, as a fellow Medicare
senior, most will cover several visits with a RD (registered dietitian)
They are well worth the cost!!! Each of us with EPI have different needs with a diet because it’s going to depend a lot on what you can consume with the least irritations and symptoms! Even though we take the enzymes we all react according to our specific bodies. I hope this helps you and please be encouraged! I enjoy my life SO very much! We can thrive, it just takes patience and understanding what to try to avoid and what works and keeps you happiest!
Best of hope and progress!