Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (Epi)

[2unicorns]

For several years I have suffered from digestive and associated problems, which as well as being extremely uncomfortable have severely restricted my social life.

I have recently been diagnosed with EPI, & have been prescribed Creon capsules 300 mg - 3 times a day immediately before every meal, and Colesevelan 625 mg - 2 times a day, once first thing in the morning and 1 at night. I’ve also been told to cut out alcohol, and to go and see a dietician.

I can’t get an appointment with an NHS dietician until after Christmas, and to go private would cost approx £500, with an initial consultation followed by 2 further visits at monthly intervals.

Does anyone have any tips about what I should and what I absolutely shouldn’t eat or drink? I have googled, and it seems to be lots of fruit, veg, nuts, but NO fats or dairy.

I’d be very grateful if anyone with knowledge or experience could tell me if there is anything else I should know? And what are the most important things I should be doing?

Thanks

[anneasquith]

No expert, but it would appear very low fat diet is the answer ?

[Buenchico]

Any help?
https://gutscharity.org.uk/advice-and-information/kranky-panky/tips-and-suggestions-for-pancreatitis-patients/

[2unicorns]

Thanks. I think it will be a matter of trial and error over a long period of time. But, BC, that list of safe foods look like a good place to start. So far (3 weeks), the tablets don’t seem to be making much difference.

Sqad .... If you look in, could you let me have the benefit of any experience you may have had ?

[Sqad]

Sorry unicorn, I have just seen your post as i have been watching the rugby match.
This is a disease where you lack sufficient amount of 3 major, digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas//Lipase, Amylase and the third that I have forgotten ;-). Anyway taking these enzymes in the form of Creon and Colesevelan should restore your digestive tract to normal allowing you to eat anything perfectly normally.
It is now a matter of trial and error to see what, if any, foods bring on your symptoms.....and that includes fats.
That is my opinion, but will be interested to see the advice of the dietitian.
Eat a normal diet and ....monitor the situation ;-)

[slaney]

I have no particular expertise in this, but as others have said it seems to be a matter of trial and error for the individual.

There seems to be a movement away from low fat diets for people with EPI, and towards eating healthy fats - monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats such are found in salmon olive oil tuna etc. and avoiding trans fats and saturated fats found in fried food and some baked goods.

A few ideas in these links...

https://www.healthline.com/health/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/diet#1

https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/epi-meal-plan-pictures/

[2unicorns]

Thank you all - BC, Sqad & Slaney - for the trouble you’ve all taken. Do you think that, if I follow the advice on the various links you’ve all suggested, I could manage without having to shell out £500, & it would be OK to wait until I can get an NHS appointment in the New Year?