Goal
You must consume a diet that contains a wide variety of nutrients so you can maintain your weight and have energy to be active. Your diet should be rich in protein and calories. You should also drink eight glasses of fluid each day to combat dehydration and improve appetite. Try to eat five to six small meals each day. Avoid consuming the empty or unhealthy calories found in sweets and junk food. Eat fish and lean meat. Eat red meat sparingly. Milk products are a good source of protein also. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables as long as they do not trigger diarrhea.
Pancreatic Enzymes
Discuss taking pancreatic enzymes with your doctor. He may write a prescription for them or you may purchase them over the counter at your local health-food store. If you need them, taking enzymes can make a big difference in the amount of nutrition you receive. Always take your enzymes at the beginning of any meal or snack that contains fat from meat, milk, desserts or any other source. Swallow the pills whole and do not crush them as the enzymes can break down the mucus membranes in your mouth.
Poor Appetite
Stimulate your appetite by engaging in light exercise before meals. Eat smaller meals more often instead of trying to eat three big meals a day. Have nutrition-packed snacks such as nuts or fruit readily available so you can eat between meals. Make your meal time as stress-free as possible. Make your meals look appealing by using pretty plates and eating colorful foods. Use large plates with small portions so it does not look like you have much to eat. Let food come to room temperature to increase flavor. Add calories by using nutritional drinks such as Ensure or Boost. If food smells nauseate you, have someone else prepare your meals while you are in another room. Have them vent the kitchen air to the outside and avoid cooking food with strong odors such as cabbage. Reserve your liquids for in-between meals so you don't become full on liquid or have no room for food.
Diarrhea
Monitor your episodes of diarrhea so your doctor can determine if it is caused by a lack of pancreatic enzymes. If your pancreas is not producing enough enzymes to digest your food, you may experience diarrhea or malabsorption, which is indicated if your stools float in the toilet. Your doctor may prescribe an enzyme supplement, but you can help control diarrhea by avoiding food that is fatty or fried. This includes milk, cheese, fast food, greasy food, salad dressing, butter or fatty meat. Limit your intake of raw fruit and whole grains, since insoluble fiber can increase diarrhea. Also avoid cabbage, onions, beans and corn, as these can cause unwanted gas and stomach discomfort.
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