EPI doesn't have to control your life. You deserve to travel, socialize, work, and enjoy everyday moments without constant worry about symptoms. Real life with EPI is messy, challenging, and sometimes frustrating—but it's also completely manageable with the right tools and mindset.
Embracing Life with EPI
Living with EPI requires adjustments, but it doesn't mean sacrificing quality of life. With proper management, most people with EPI lead full, active lives. The key is developing sustainable routines, planning ahead, and knowing when to seek support.
This guide covers practical strategies for incorporating EPI management into your daily routines without letting it define your life.
Daily Management Strategies
Medication Management
- • Set phone reminders for each meal and snack time
- • Keep enzyme bottles in multiple locations (home, work, car, purse)
- • Use a pill organizer for travel and outings
- • Always carry extra enzymes - you never know when meals will be delayed
- • Refill prescriptions early to avoid running out
Meal Planning & Preparation
- • Meal prep on weekends for easier weekday management
- • Keep simple, EPI-friendly snacks readily available
- • Plan your eating schedule around your daily activities
- • Have backup options for when plans change
Symptom Tracking
- • Keep a food and symptom journal (apps like MyFitnessPal, Cara)
- • Note enzyme doses, meal content, and any symptoms
- • Track patterns to identify trigger foods or timing issues
- • Share journal with healthcare providers at appointments
Create Your EPI Management Toolkit
From travel checklists to restaurant guides, get all the practical tools you need to manage EPI confidently in any situation. Stop feeling unprepared and start living fully.
Get Your Lifestyle GuideDining Out Successfully
Before You Go
- • Check menu online to plan enzyme dosage
- • Call ahead about ingredient modifications
- • Choose restaurants with EPI-friendly options
At the Restaurant
- • Don't be shy about asking how dishes are prepared
- • Request sauces and dressings on the side
- • Ask for grilled instead of fried options
- • Take enzymes discreetly at the table (it's medication!)
Safe Choices
- • Grilled chicken or fish with vegetables
- • Pasta with marinara or light cream sauce
- • Rice bowls with lean proteins
- • Soups (broth-based, not cream-based)
Travel Tips
Essential Travel Preparations
Pack Smart
- • Carry 2x your enzyme needs (account for delays)
- • Keep enzymes in carry-on luggage, never checked bags
- • Bring doctor's letter explaining your medications
- • Pack portable snacks that don't require refrigeration
During Travel
- • Take enzymes with all airplane/train meals
- • Stay hydrated - dehydration worsens symptoms
- • Know bathroom locations wherever you go
- • Don't skip meals to avoid symptoms - take your enzymes!
International Travel Considerations
- • Research medical facilities at your destination
- • Bring prescription information and pharmacy contacts
- • Learn key phrases in local language (bathroom, doctor, pharmacy)
- • Purchase travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions
Travel with EPI Without Stress
Don't let EPI limit your adventures. Our comprehensive travel guide includes packing lists, airport tips, international strategies, and emergency protocols for worry-free trips.
Complete Life Management GuideWork and Social Life
Managing EPI at Work
Disclosure
You're not required to disclose EPI, but informing your supervisor can help accommodate bathroom access and meal timing needs.
Workplace Strategies
- • Keep enzymes in desk drawer
- • Store easy snacks nearby
- • Schedule meetings around meals
Social Situations
Social events centered around food can feel challenging, but don't let EPI isolate you:
- • Offer to bring a dish you know you can eat
- • Eat beforehand if unsure about food options
- • Focus on the company, not just the food
- • Have a simple explanation ready if asked about dietary needs
- • Suggest non-food-centered activities
Emotional Wellbeing
Common Emotional Challenges
- • Frustration with dietary restrictions and medication schedules
- • Anxiety about symptoms in public or social settings
- • Grief over lifestyle changes and losses
- • Fear about underlying conditions or disease progression
- • Fatigue from constant symptom management
Coping Strategies
- • Connect with EPI support groups (online or in-person)
- • Consider therapy - chronic illness adjustment is real
- • Practice self-compassion - bad days happen
- • Celebrate small victories (good test results, symptom-free days)
- • Maintain hobbies and interests outside of health management
- • Educate loved ones to build understanding and support
Relationships and Communication
Talking to Loved Ones
Open communication helps loved ones understand your needs and provide appropriate support:
What to Explain
- • What EPI is and how it affects you
- • Your treatment requirements (PERT, diet)
- • Symptoms and when they occur
- • How they can help
What to Ask For
- • Patience during symptom flare-ups
- • Understanding about meal timing
- • Help with meal planning/prep
- • Emotional support without judgment
Building Your Healthcare Team
Gastroenterologist
Primary specialist for EPI management and PERT adjustments
Registered Dietitian
Specializing in digestive disorders and pancreatic disease
Primary Care Physician
For overall health monitoring and coordinating care
Mental Health Professional
Therapist or counselor experienced in chronic illness (if needed)
Thrive with EPI: Complete Lifestyle Guide
Get comprehensive strategies for managing every aspect of life with EPI, from travel checklists to communication scripts and emotional wellness tools.
Get the Complete Guide