EPI: What You Need To Know About Pancreatic Insufficiency

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) can cause various digestive issues and is fortunately treatable. However, treating EPI as a standalone condition often misses the bigger picture—it’s typically a symptom rather than the root cause. Failing to address the underlying cause can result in ineffective or temporary relief.

Here’s what you need to know about EPI, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, including what your doctor might not have told you.

What Is EPI?

Enzymes are essential chemicals that help break down food so your body can absorb nutrients. These enzymes are primarily produced by the pancreas, but other sources include:

• Food
• The cells lining your intestinal tract
• The bacteria in your gut microbiome

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) occurs when your pancreas doesn’t produce enough digestive enzymes, impairing your ability to properly digest and absorb nutrients.

What Causes EPI?

True pancreatic insufficiency is rare and usually associated with conditions such as:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Pancreatitis
• Pancreatic cancer

However, other conditions can also impair enzyme production, including:

• Diabetes
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Symptoms of EPI

Symptoms of EPI often overlap with other digestive conditions and include:

• Abdominal pain
• Gas and bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Difficulty digesting fats, leading to greasy or foul-smelling stools

Even if EPI isn’t the root cause, taking enzymes can sometimes help by easing the burden on an inflamed or irritated digestive tract.

How Is EPI Treated?

Enzyme Supplements

Treating EPI is straightforward: take digestive enzyme capsules with meals.

• Prescription Option: Creon is a commonly prescribed enzyme product.
• Over-the-Counter Alternatives: Many enzyme supplements are available without a prescription, often as strong—or stronger—than Creon.

Choosing the Right Enzyme

Not all enzyme products are created equal. Effectiveness can vary from person to person, so you may need to experiment to find the one that works best for you.

Why Enzymes Might Not Be the Complete Solution

Although enzymes can provide relief, they often treat the symptom rather than the cause.

• Masking Underlying Issues: Many patients struggle to break down food due to factors other than enzyme deficiency, such as gut inflammation or microbiome imbalances. Extra enzymes may temporarily ease symptoms without resolving the underlying problem.
• Temporary Relief: If the true cause isn’t addressed, enzymes may only provide short-term benefits.

Addressing the Root Cause

At the IBS Treatment Center, we take a comprehensive approach to digestive health. While we test for pancreatic insufficiency, we also investigate and address other potential causes of abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and bloating.

• Holistic Evaluation: We look beyond the pancreas to identify triggers like food intolerances, microbiome imbalances, or intestinal inflammation.
• Customized Treatment: Once we identify the root cause, we create a personalized plan to restore digestive health, allowing your body to naturally recover its enzyme production when possible.

Take Control of Your Digestive Health

Digestive symptoms like pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements don’t happen by accident. There’s always a reason behind them, and finding that reason is key to achieving lasting relief.

If you suspect EPI or struggle with persistent digestive issues, consider working with specialists who can help uncover and treat the root cause. At the IBS Treatment Center, we’re here to guide you toward a healthier gut and better quality of life.