CFLF- Cystic Fibrosis Lifestyle Foundation

Hello All!

I came across a great resource for us! The Cystic Fibrosis Lifestyle Foundation (CFLF) offers up to $500 grants for participation in exercise programs. Their recreational grants can be used for yoga classes, dance lessons, horseback riding and so much more! Click here to apply for a recreational grant! Don't forget to like their Facebook page!

I'm trying to decide what I want to do- horseback riding, yoga, or a gym membership! If you've received a grant or applied, comment about your experience!


G'Night,

Rebecca

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency

Enzymes are proteins made by the pancreas and aid in the digestion of food. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is when the pancreas fails to provide a sufficient amount of digestive enzymes. As a result, people who suffer from EPI cannot digest the nutrients in foods. This can lead to low weight/difficulty in gaining weight, severe GI symptoms like bloating, gas, and oily/greasy stools that float. When stools float, it can be the result of excessive gas and malabsorption of nutrients.

There are a few different types of enzymes that aid in digestion such as proteases, peptidases, lipases, and carbohydrases. Lipases break down the lipids, and carbohydrases breaks down complex carbs.

Creon is a medication that some patients with CF are prescribed. Not all mutations of the CFTR gene cause pancreatic insufficiency. Creon is a mixture of amylase, chymotrypsin and lipase.

Dosage varies from patient to patient and meal to meal. I am prescribed the 24,000 unit of Creon and take 5 with meals, 3 with non-fatty snacks.

For assistance with co-pays and refill reminders, CF Care Forward is a great resource. To receive a $50 deductible from your Creon co-pays, visit  Co-Pay Assistance.


Don't forget to take your enzymes! :)

Rebecca