EPI Resources & Support

Comprehensive resources, trusted organizations, and support communities to help you manage Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Trusted Medical Organizations

Reputable organizations providing evidence-based information on EPI, pancreatic diseases, and digestive health

National Pancreas Foundation

Leading patient advocacy organization dedicated to pancreatic disease research, education, and support

American Gastroenterological Association

Professional organization providing clinical guidelines and patient education on digestive diseases

Cleveland Clinic - EPI Information

Comprehensive medical information on EPI diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment from a leading medical center

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

Federal health organization offering evidence-based information on pancreatic insufficiency

Mayo Clinic - EPI Information

Trusted medical information on pancreatic insufficiency diagnosis and treatment

Patient Support Communities

Connect with others managing EPI, share experiences, and find emotional support

Online Forum

Inspire EPI Community

Online support community where EPI patients share experiences and coping strategies

Social Media

Facebook EPI Support Groups

Multiple active groups for patients with EPI and chronic pancreatitis

Organization

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

Support for patients dealing with EPI related to pancreatic cancer

Essential EPI Resources

Understanding EPI Symptoms

Learn to recognize the signs of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, including steatorrhea, weight loss, malabsorption, digestive issues, and vitamin deficiencies.

EPI symptomssteatorrheaweight lossmalabsorptionpancreatic insufficiency signs

PERT Treatment Guide

Comprehensive guide to Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy: how it works, proper dosing, timing strategies, and optimizing enzyme effectiveness for better digestion.

PERTpancreatic enzymesenzyme replacement therapyCreonZenpep

EPI-Friendly Diet Plans

Meal planning strategies for EPI patients: recommended foods, foods to avoid, portion control, enzyme dosing with meals, and nutrition optimization techniques.

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Living with EPI

Practical strategies for daily life with EPI: managing social situations, dining out tips, traveling with enzymes, and maintaining quality of life.

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EPI-Related Medical Conditions

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency can develop from various underlying conditions. Understanding the cause helps optimize your treatment approach.

Chronic Pancreatitis and EPI

How chronic inflammation of the pancreas leads to EPI and affects enzyme production over time.

Related: chronic pancreatitis EPI, pancreatitis enzyme deficiency

Cystic Fibrosis-Related EPI

Understanding pancreatic insufficiency in cystic fibrosis patients and specialized enzyme therapy approaches.

Related: cystic fibrosis EPI, CF pancreatic insufficiency

Post-Surgery EPI

Managing EPI after pancreatic surgery, Whipple procedure, or partial pancreatectomy.

Related: post-surgery EPI, pancreatic surgery insufficiency

Pancreatic Cancer and EPI

EPI as a complication of pancreatic cancer and its impact on treatment and nutrition.

Related: pancreatic cancer EPI, cancer-related malabsorption

Key Information About EPI

What Causes Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency?

EPI occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, and amylase) to properly break down food. Common causes include:

  • Chronic Pancreatitis: The most common cause, where repeated inflammation damages enzyme-producing cells
  • Cystic Fibrosis: Genetic condition affecting mucus production in the pancreas
  • Pancreatic Cancer: Tumors can block enzyme secretion or damage pancreatic tissue
  • Pancreatic Surgery: Removal of pancreatic tissue reduces enzyme production capacity
  • Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 3c diabetes can affect pancreatic function

How is EPI Diagnosed?

Healthcare providers use several tests to diagnose Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency:

  • Fecal Elastase-1 Test: Measures enzyme levels in stool (most common test)
  • 72-Hour Fecal Fat Test: Quantifies fat malabsorption over three days
  • Secretin Stimulation Test: Direct measurement of pancreatic function
  • Blood Tests: Check for nutritional deficiencies and fat-soluble vitamins
  • Imaging Studies: CT or MRI scans to assess pancreatic structure

PERT: The Primary EPI Treatment

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) is the cornerstone of EPI management. Key points include:

  • Enzyme Composition: PERT contains lipase (for fats), protease (for proteins), and amylase (for carbohydrates)
  • Proper Dosing: Typically 40,000-90,000 units of lipase per meal, adjusted based on fat content
  • Timing: Take enzymes at the beginning of meals and throughout eating
  • Common Brands: Creon, Zenpep, Pancreaze, Pertyze, Viokace
  • Administration: Swallow capsules whole or sprinkle on acidic food for those who can't swallow pills

Dietary Strategies for EPI Management

Proper nutrition is essential for people with EPI. Effective dietary strategies include:

  • Frequent Small Meals: Eat 5-6 smaller meals instead of 3 large ones
  • Lean Proteins: Choose chicken, fish, turkey, and plant-based proteins
  • Moderate Fat Intake: Include healthy fats with proper enzyme dosing
  • Limit Fiber: Reduce raw vegetables and high-fiber foods if they cause symptoms
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day
  • Avoid Alcohol: Especially if EPI is caused by chronic pancreatitis
  • Vitamin Supplementation: Take vitamins A, D, E, and K with enzymes and food

Want the Complete EPI Management Guide?

The Understanding Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency book provides comprehensive, evidence-based guidance on all aspects of EPI management, including detailed meal plans, enzyme dosing strategies, symptom tracking tools, and expert advice for living well with EPI.

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Related Topics: Pancreatic Insufficiency Treatment | EPI Diagnosis | PERT Therapy | Pancreatic Enzymes | EPI Diet Plan | Malabsorption Syndrome | Steatorrhea Treatment | Fat Malabsorption | Digestive Enzyme Deficiency | Pancreatic Disease Management | EPI Medications | Living with Pancreatic Insufficiency | EPI Support | Pancreatic Health

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