Pancreatic Disease

The pancreas plays a key role in digestion by producing enzymes that help break down food and hormones (such as insulin) that regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic disorders, such as chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency or pancreatic cancer, can reduce the pancreas’s ability to work properly. This may lead to difficulties digesting and absorbing nutrients, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms and long-term health risks if not managed.

Why It Matters

When the pancreas isn’t working properly, it can lead to:

  • Abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhoea

  • Fatty or oily stools (steatorrhoea)

  • Unplanned weight loss

  • Poor absorption of essential nutrients

  • Deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)

  • Loss of strength, fatigue, and reduced quality of life

With the right dietary management and medical support, many of these issues can be reduced or prevented.

Who This Service Is For

This service is designed for adults who have been diagnosed with, or are being investigated for, a pancreatic condition and are :

  • Experiencing digestive symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, or fatty stools

  • Struggling to maintain weight despite eating well

  • Living with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or cystic fibrosis–related pancreatic problems

  • Taking pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (e.g. Creon) and want to use it effectively

  • Unsure whether your diet is providing enough nutrients for your health and recovery

If you are unsure whether this service is right for you, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise.

What to Expect in Your Assessment

During your session, your dietitian will:

  • Explore your current situation – reviewing your diagnosis, symptoms, lifestyle, and medical background.

  • Work out your nutritional requirements – estimating your energy, protein, and nutrient needs based on your health, weight, and activity level.

  • Identify any deficits or risks – such as vitamin deficiencies, malabsorption, or weight loss.

  • Review your diet and supplements – including how you currently take pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy and whether adjustments are needed.

  • Provide practical dietary strategies – such as meal planning, food fortification, managing fat intake, and optimising digestion with enzymes.

  • Make recommendations to your GP (if appropriate) – for prescriptions (e.g. Creon, fat-soluble vitamins) or further medical investigations.

  • Agree a personalised plan – tailored steps to help reduce symptoms, improve nutrient absorption, maintain weight, and support your long-term health.

Your plan will be individualised and, where relevant, can be shared with your wider healthcare team for continuity of care.

Diagram of a human pancreas, showing the divided sections with different textures and colors.
Two hands wearing blue disposable gloves forming a heart shape against a plain white background.
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Three capsules of medicine with orange caps on a wooden surface, with a blurred dinner plate in the background containing broccoli, pasta, a grilled meat patty, and sliced tomato.