Staying healthy is a needed priority for all of us, but that can be especially tough for people who suffer from a lesser-known gastrointestinal disorder known as Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, or “EPI.”
The pancreas produces enzymes that break down protein, carbohydrates and fat. EPI prevents the pancreas from producing those enzymes.
“Without those enzymes to break that down, we can’t absorb all of the good stuff that’s within our food–the vitamins, the minerals, the anti-oxidants, the nutrition,” Registered Dietician Joy Bauer told California Life. “Plus if we’re not breaking it down and absorbing it, we have a lot of lousy side symptoms,” Bauer said.
Fortunately, the condition can be treated through enzyme replacement therapy and adjustments to your diet.
“Some of the most important things you can do is to not overtax your digestive system. Instead of eating three large meals throughout the day, you want to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day,” Bauer said.
She also stressed the importance of staying hydrated.
To help EPI sufferers with their diets, Joy has compiled all kinds of nutrition information in a free booklet.
To download it, visit IdentifyEPI.com. And be sure to check out Bauer’s full interview, airing statewide this week on California Life!
Also on Coast to Coast
-
A Cup A Day: Managing Diabetes One Beverage at a Time
-
Episode 27 of Coast to Coast: Checking out the Galleri Classic & Summer Travel Inspiration with Dalia Colón!
-
Coast to Coast Kicks Back at GBK Brand Bar’s Pre-Oscar Luxury Lounge
-
Coast to Coast Checks Out the Best of Sprouts with Nutritionist Cara Harbstreet
-
Episode 22 of Coast to Coast: Setting Sail on the Icon of the Seas & 29 Palms Travel Inspiration