What You Need to Know About Food When You Have EPI Everyday Health Menu NewslettersSearch Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency What You Need to Know About Food When You Have EPI Eating nutritious foods, adhering to medication guidelines, and eating smaller meals are important ways to manage exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. By Ashley WelchMedically Reviewed by Kareem Sassi, MD Reviewed: September 13, 2021 Medically Reviewed People with EPI should strive for a healthy diet full of lean protein like fish, and vegetables.Cameron Whitman/Stocksy Living with These enzymes are responsible for breaking down food and allowing the body to use its nutrients for energy.According to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), people with EPI often experience EPI often occurs as a result of another condition that damages the pancreas, such as PERT needs to be taken at the beginning of each meal and should never be taken on an empty stomach. Foods to Eat With EPI While there is no specific diet recommended for EPI, experts say it is best to focus on eating nutritious foods.“In general, people with EPI should strive for a healthy diet with lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains,” says Foods to Avoid With EPIThere aren’t any foods that people with EPI should specifically avoid, says However, Leben advises sticking to healthy fats and staying away from unhealthy ones. “Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats as much as possible,” she says. “They are typically found in red meat, processed meats, fried foods, and dairy products.” Eating Habits With EPI If your doctor has prescribed PERT medication to control symptoms of EPI, it is important to take it as directed. This means taking it with every meal. “It is essential to take PERT consistently with all meals and snacks in the recommended doses to ensure proper digestion and absorption of food,” Leben says. “Do not delay eating once you have taken your enzymes.” However, if you’re eating a particularly big meal, you may want to take half at the beginning and half at the end.“Taking PERT properly will also ensure your symptoms of EPI are minimal, like diarrhea, bloating, However, don’t start taking any vitamins or supplements without first talking to a healthcare provider. “Vitamins and supplements should be discussed with your doctor or registered dietitian, as they will be based on the individual and their lab work,” Maruschak says.Finally, Leben adds a note of caution about fiber. “While a diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended, Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). 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