Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency - What it is and how RDNs can help!

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) can have major impacts on an individual's health and quality of life. As a dietitian, there are a variety of ways you can help identify EPI and support your patient through their EPI treatment. In this video, Valaree, MS, RD, CSO, LDN, CNSC, FAND gives an introductory walk through what EPI looks like and how it's managed.

References:
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Links to our macronutrient digestion videos can be found here:

[christinavakas]

I have EPI. You really hit home with me. No one is following up on me. I probably call the gastroenterologist and set up an appt. Been taking Zenpep for 2 months. Cost is outrageous. Thanks again for a clear, concise presentation on EPI❤

[gothafloxacin]

I have EPI and none of my doctors know why. I was diagnosed while i was having fatty diarrhea 40+ times a day. My elastase was 82. Essentially I had a severe presentation and developed severe complications from it. I am J tube reliant and relisorb is incredibly important and crucial for my survival. I am glad to be alive.

[arthurtheartist]

excellent video. one of the best I've seen on this topic.

[lillianraker]

This video is so well done, thank you for providing clear and compassionate information!

[larco]

Thank you so much! This was so informative. Have never had the condition fully explained to Me and was recommended this video through support groups. Thank you for explaining it so accurately and helping us fully understand what is happening within our bodies!

[BARF_FACE_]

Thanks for more info. I just got a test result back that mine is quite low… I have struggled with issues of IBS and only now finally charting a path to recovery / treatment.. to be continued but- I guess knowledge is power and I’ll have to get some more enzymes somehow someway!

[willgordon]

You are right doctor, I got use to frequent bowl movements, and steatorrhea that.. once the pain progressed and I start loosing my eyesight at night, that I realized its something wrong.

[janetfrank]

Thank you so much, the information you offered is very valuable.

[RyanMcGirr-buqr]

EPI tested twice well below normal range of 200-1000. All symptoms except flatulence. Five or more stools per day. If I eat fat they float. Before PERTs foul smelling sometimes. Have tested fat soluble vitamins levels and bone density. Dental health has declined greatly this last year.
Was put on FODMAP diet and many lab test. Before EPI test my mental health was questioned and was drug tested. Still having issues.

[ninadperiodon]

Just add Ox bile and treatment plan is complete. Thank me now.

[dottiedavis]

I’ve had chronic pancreatitis and EPI for 10+ years, and have a different issue lately: weight loss, little appetite, and muscle wasting (sarcopenia—Thanks for the new word!). My Gastro APRN says take the enzymes, but no other advice. Would a nutrition consult help? The RD’s in my area have no experience with EPI, so I’m also asking where do I look, please.

[earleneschmitt]

Porcine Pig source of PERT unfort contains alpha gal protein. which many are allergic to..I wish the GalSafe Pig CO, Revivicore would make PERT w their GalSafe pigs..
Im going ask Mylan Viatris abt GalSafe PERT R&D

[Perry-qsfx]

I have a question ! Recently diagnosed but instead of losing weight I blew up and need to start losing weight —the bloating is real! Any suggestions ?

[bm]

Has anyone had luck using over the counter enzymes rather than prescription?